The Real Estate General Authority (REGA), the responsible regulatory body for the real estate market in Saudi Arabia, has announced the availability of a new digital portal. Foreign interested parties can now submit applications for property acquisition via the “Saudi Properties” portal. This portal serves as the official platform for implementing the Law on Real Estate Ownership by Foreigners, which was put into effect in January 2026, defining a clear legal framework and geographical scope.
The online portal enables potential real estate buyers, both residing within and outside the Kingdom, to initiate the property acquisition process through an official digital channel. All relevant administrative formalities can be processed electronically via this platform. The introduction of this system is part of comprehensive transformations in the Saudi Arabian real estate market, driven by dynamic urban growth, the realisation of extensive projects, and the development of economic sectors such as tourism, hospitality, and leisure.
Services and Application Submission
“Saudi Properties” offers a range of services that structure the acquisition process. These include access to available acquisition opportunities, access to vetted property listings, verification of individual eligibility requirements, the actual submission of applications, and the option for application tracking.
For non-Saudi nationals already residing in the Kingdom, direct application submission via the portal is possible. This requires providing the residency number, after which an automatic eligibility check is performed, and the necessary formalities are processed digitally. Non-Saudi residents without prior digital verification must begin their application process by applying for a digital identity card at Saudi Arabian missions abroad, which must be obtained before completing the online application.
Non-Saudi companies and legal entities that do not yet have a presence in the Kingdom are required to register with the Ministry of Investment via the “Invest Saudi” platform and apply for a national unified number before they can complete the electronic property transfer process. The system allows both private individuals and companies and legal entities from abroad to acquire properties in various regions of Saudi Arabia.
Regulatory Framework and Holy Cities
Special regulations apply to property ownership in Mecca and Medina. The acquisition of properties in these two Holy Cities is restricted to Saudi Arabian companies and Muslim private individuals, both from the Kingdom and from abroad. This regulatory framework promotes transparent decisions on ownership by linking real estate opportunities with structured pathways and official data sources. This serves to strengthen market integrity, foster high-quality urban growth, and enhance the experience for beneficiaries.
REGA emphasises that “Saudi Properties” is the official channel for applications for real estate acquisition by foreigners and provides comprehensive information on property ownership in the Kingdom. Potential buyers are encouraged to consult the portal at saudiproperties.rega.gov.sa. This development underscores Saudi Arabia’s aspiration to enhance its attractiveness as a location for living, working, and investing.
