Saudi Arabia introduced a unified online system for foreign property ownership on January 22, making digital applications through government portal mandatory for all non-Saudi buyers.

Saudi Real Estate General Authority announced that Saudi Properties platform has become the sole official gateway for property ownership applications by foreigners. System handles the entire process electronically, from eligibility checks to final registration.

Residents holding valid iqama permits can apply directly through the portal with automatic eligibility verification and online procedure completion. Non-residents must start applications through Saudi embassies and missions abroad, which issue digital identities enabling them to continue via Saudi Properties platform.

Foreign companies without physical presence in the Kingdom face a three-step process. They must first register with Ministry of Investment through Invest Saudi portal, obtain a Unified Number (700), then submit electronic ownership requests through Saudi Properties.

Platform links directly to national real estate title registration system, allowing applicants to verify compliance with regulatory requirements and complete ownership procedures with enhanced transparency.

Taiseer Al Mofarej, authority's official spokesperson, said specific sites and geographic zones eligible for non-Saudi ownership will be announced during first quarter of this year as part of Geographical Areas for Ownership Document.

Key cities including Riyadh and Jeddah will operate under separate regulatory framework based on geographic zoning, due for announcement in first quarter next year. Holy cities Mecca and Medina maintain strict ownership restrictions, permitting only Saudi companies and Muslim individuals regardless of residency location.

Al Mofarej issued strong warning against unverified information circulating in the market. He confirmed no residential or commercial projects have yet received official approval for non-Saudi ownership. Public should disregard any current claims and rely solely on updates through official channels.

Authority said new regulation aims to elevate real estate development quality by attracting international developers and high-calibre companies to Saudi market. Digital system designed to safeguard property rights while streamlining ownership procedures for eligible foreign buyers.

Non-Saudi ownership is permitted across various Kingdom regions, though additional controls apply to major cities. Complete regulatory framework for Riyadh, Jeddah, Mecca and Medina ownership will be revealed within next three months.

Source: Gulf News