KSA Real Estate Investment for Foreigners to Open by 2026
Starting from January 2026, KSA real estate investment will be open for foreigners to buy property in the country for the first time. The major change is part of the country’s plan to lure more foreign investment and help in the growth of their economy.
As part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan, the new law aims to bring in more foreign investment, grow the real estate market, and decrease the country’s dependence on oil revenue.
Property buyers from other countries will be able to purchase real estate in certain locations, which Reuters say will include Saudi Arabia’s largest cities, Jeddah and Riyadh. But because of the religious status of holy cities such as Mecca and Medina, investment in such properties would continue to be heavily regulated.
KSA Real Estate Regulation and Oversight
The process will be overseen by the KSA Real Estate General Authority, and detailed regulations are to be developed within six months to explain who can apply, how the law will be enforced and how the process operates.
Mahmoud Elwakli, Saudi Arabia Country Manager at RIF Trust, described the move as a very positive step. He added that the new law should help foreign investors buy property in the country without a local sponsor.
Premium Residency and Investment Accessibility
At the moment, the only pathway for foreigners to buy property on their own in Saudi Arabia is through the KSA Premium Residency program, which needs at least SAR 4 million in investment.
Elwakli also mentioned that the new change could lead to the introduction of more affordable real estate investment options, making it easier for a wider range of buyers to enter the market.
CEO of One Word Migration, pointed out that Saudi Arabia’s luxury real estate market is very attractive to rich foreign investors. However, she explained that they are hard done by the premium residency program as it’s seen as very difficult and costly even if the investment amount is affordable.
