Recent regulatory reform opened large parts of the Kingdom to foreign ownership. Here's what's allowed today, where, and what you need to bring with you.
On this page
Information, not legal advice
This page summarises publicly available regulations as of 2026. Always confirm with a licensed Saudi lawyer before signing any deed.
Foreign ownership of Saudi real estate has been permitted under the Foreigners' Real Estate Ownership Law since 2000, with significant expansion in 2024-2025 covering new cities and asset types.
Three legal paths exist: (1) residence-permit-based ownership for individual residents, (2) investment-license ownership through the Ministry of Investment (MISA), and (3) GCC citizen ownership which is largely equivalent to Saudi nationals.
Source: Foreigners' Real Estate Ownership Law (Royal Decree M/15), General Real Estate Authority (REGA) guidelines.
Allowed cities vary by your status. The list below reflects current REGA-approved zones for non-resident foreign individuals.
Allowed
Open to foreign individuals with appropriate residence or investment license
Restricted
Permitted only for specific asset types or with additional approvals
Prohibited
Reserved for Saudi citizens and Muslim residents under separate rules
The exact bundle depends on whether you're a resident or non-resident. A licensed broker (Damj is one) will request these before the deed transfer.
Identity
Iqama (resident) or passport copy + entry visa stamp (non-resident).
Investment basis
MISA investment license, or proof of long-term residence permit, or GCC nationality card.
Financial proof
Source of funds letter from your bank; for amounts over SAR 1M an AML declaration is required.
Real estate due diligence
Title deed (sak) copy from the seller, property location confirmation from the Ministry of Justice's digital portal.
Most Saudi banks finance residents (with Iqama) on standard mortgage terms. For non-residents, financing is more limited and typically requires 40-60% down payment.
Practical tips
Real Estate Transaction Tax
5%
Replaces VAT on most real-estate sales. Paid by the buyer.
Brokerage commission
2.5%
Damj's commission, paid after the sale closes. Zero upfront fees.
Deed registration
~SAR 1,000
Fixed Ministry of Justice fee for deed transfer + notarization.
Use this before signing any deed. Damj's broker walks through each item with you.
We help non-resident and resident foreign investors navigate the process end-to-end. WhatsApp or contact form — both work.