S
audi Arabia has introduced Saudi Properties, a national digital portal that will serve as the sole entry point for foreign investors to view, assess eligibility, submit applications, and secure ownership of real‑estate assets under the forthcoming Non‑Saudi Property Ownership Law, effective January 2026. By merging property search, qualification checks, application processing, and government approvals into one interface, the platform seeks to cut red tape and enhance market transparency. The initiative aligns with Vision 2030’s broader strategy to accelerate the growth of the country’s real‑estate finance and investment ecosystem. Allowing non‑nationals to own property marks a dramatic shift from decades of restrictive policy, aiming to attract foreign direct investment in both residential and commercial sectors while preserving regulatory control through digital oversight.

    Early indications show robust interest from international investors and developers, positioning Saudi Arabia as a new real‑estate hub in the Middle East. The launch coincides with ambitious megaprojects, a maturing capital market, and wider economic liberalization. If Saudi Properties succeeds in simplifying entry and delivering reliable data, capital that has traditionally flowed to London, New York, or Dubai could increasingly view the Kingdom as a viable alternative, especially for high‑growth urban and mixed‑use developments. Other nations observing this model may emulate the digital gateway approach to draw foreign investment while safeguarding domestic policy objectives. Such a shift could reshape global real‑estate flows, encourage cross‑border portfolio diversification, and intensify competition among emerging markets seeking to unlock foreign capital without compromising regulatory oversight.