How to Buy Property in Saudi Arabia as UAE Residents? Changes From January 2026
Starting January 2026, Saudi Arabia has opened its real estate market to foreign buyers, including UAE citizens and expatriates, under a new real estate law.
This significant shift is part of the Kingdom’s broader economic liberalization efforts and aligns with its Vision 2030 ambitions to attract global investors and diversify its economy.
Who Can Buy and Where?
Under the new framework, both foreign individuals and companies are allowed to own freehold real estate in designated zones across Saudi Arabia. The first phase of areas open to ownership includes major cities such as Riyadh and Jeddah, with additional cities set to open in 2026 as regulatory boundaries are fully defined.
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However, Makkah and Madinah remain subject to stricter restrictions due to their cultural and religious significance, requiring special approvals for property purchases in these cities.
Although the law now permits foreign ownership, it is still more structured than in some Gulf countries. Buyers must meet regulatory conditions and secure necessary approvals before completing transactions.
How the Rules Compare with the UAE
The new Saudi property ownership system, while allowing foreign ownership, is more regulated than the UAE’s model, which has been in place for several years. Zacky Sajjad, Director of Business Development at Cavendish Maxwell, explained that the Saudi framework provides more control, with a greater emphasis on regulatory approvals, compliance checks, and evolving guidance.
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While UAE citizens and expatriates are now permitted to buy property in Saudi Arabia, the process involves stricter oversight compared to the more mature, globally recognized UAE market.
Sajjad highlighted that Saudi Arabia is still in a “price discovery” phase and that its regulatory system is still being refined, whereas the UAE’s market offers a more established investment environment.
Why Saudi Arabia Is Opening Up Now
Saudi Arabia’s government aims to attract more foreign capital into the real estate sector as part of its broader strategy to diversify revenue sources, stimulate private sector growth, and expand urban infrastructure.
Officials believe the new law will drive investment in emerging cities, support housing supply, and attract global developers seeking new markets. Additionally, the opening of property ownership is part of the Kingdom’s efforts to boost its economy in line with Vision 2030.
The government will publish zoned ownership rules on the “Istitaa” public consultation platform, providing investors with a clearer understanding of eligible locations and purchasing procedures.
What UAE Buyers Should Consider
Experts advise that the opportunity for UAE buyers is significant but requires a cautious, long-term approach. Sajjad recommends viewing Saudi real estate as a strategic long-term investment, given the Kingdom’s ongoing infrastructure projects and population growth, particularly in cities like Riyadh and Jeddah.
Investors should ensure that properties are located within approved ownership zones and thoroughly review resale and leasing regulations.
Professional advice is essential, particularly as mortgage availability for foreign buyers is still developing. Early entrants may benefit from first-mover advantages, but due diligence on taxation, registration, and financing is critical.
A New Investment Chapter
This reform positions Saudi Arabia alongside other Gulf markets that have opened up to foreign ownership in recent years.
Much like Dubai’s transformation after liberalizing its ownership rules in 2002, Saudi Arabia’s real estate market could evolve into a major destination for cross-border property investment.
If Saudi Arabia follows a similar trajectory, cities like Riyadh and Jeddah could become key players in the regional property market, shaping the future of real estate investment in the Gulf.
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