Saudi Arabia has brought into force a new law regulating real estate ownership by non-Saudis, marking a further evolution of the Kingdom’s property regulatory framework.

The legislation took effect on January 22 and is being implemented as part of the national real estate legislative system. The Real Estate General Authority (REGA) said applications for property ownership by non-Saudis will be accepted exclusively through the official digital platform, Saudi Properties.

According to REGA, the Saudi Properties service is available to residents and non-residents, as well as non-Saudi companies and entities, subject to specific regulatory requirements and procedures. The application process varies by applicant category.

Residents of Saudi Arabia can apply directly through the portal using their residency ID, with eligibility verified automatically and all procedures completed electronically. Non-residents must initiate the process through Saudi missions and embassies abroad to obtain a digital ID, which enables them to submit ownership requests via the platform.

Non-Saudi companies and entities without a presence in the Kingdom must first register with the Ministry of Investment through the Invest Saudi platform and obtain a unified number before completing ownership procedures electronically.

REGA said the law allows foreign individuals, companies, and entities to own real estate across various regions of the Kingdom. Ownership in Riyadh and Jeddah, as well as in Makkah and Madinah, will be regulated under a framework based on the Geographic Zones Document, which is expected to be announced in the first quarter of 2026.

REGA described Saudi Properties as the official digital platform for implementing the law, enabling applicants to complete ownership procedures and verify compliance with legal requirements through a system directly linked to the real estate registration framework. This approach, the authority said, is designed to enhance transparency and protect property rights.

The law aims to improve the quality of real estate projects by attracting international developers and specialized companies, while supporting growth across the residential, commercial, industrial, and tourism sectors. It is also expected to contribute to job creation and sustainably increase the real estate sector’s contribution to non-oil GDP.

REGA advised interested parties to consult the Saudi Properties portal or contact the unified call center for further information.