Riyadh opens its doors: foreign ownership in 2026
Saudi Arabia's new ownership law took effect in January. Here is what it means for buyers in the capital.
What changed
Since January 2026, non-Saudis can own real estate in designated zones of Riyadh and Jeddah. The Real Estate General Authority publishes the zones and the rules for each. Makkah and Madinah remain subject to stricter conditions.
Costs to plan for
Purchases carry a 5% real estate transaction tax, plus brokerage, usually 2.5%. Our Riyadh office prepares the same line-by-line cost sheet we use in Dubai.
Residency
Saudi Arabia's Premium Residency includes a real-estate owner track for qualifying property. We confirm the current thresholds with every buyer before they commit.
Where we are looking
Our shortlist focuses on Diriyah, KAFD and the family districts of north Riyadh, where supply is limited and international schools are close.
This guide is not legal or financial advice. Rules change, and we confirm the current position with every client before they commit.
