Jan 4, 2026
The real estate market in Saudi Arabia’s capital has witnessed remarkable development in recent years, driven by regulatory reforms and Saudi Vision 2030, which has opened new horizons for foreign investment. With the increasing number of residents and expatriates, there has been a significant rise in searches for apartments for sale in Riyadh for foreigners as an option that combines residential stability with long-term investment opportunities.
Today, Riyadh is not just a city for work; it has become a fully integrated living environment. This has made property ownership in the city a goal for many expatriates seeking stability or looking to safeguard their capital within a strong, regulated market.
Yes, the regulations in force in the Kingdom allow foreigners to own residential real estate according to clear guidelines. The option of freehold apartments for expatriates in Riyadh is among the most popular, especially for residents with valid legal residency (Iqama). They are allowed to own one property for residential purposes after obtaining official approvals from the competent authorities.
This direction reflects the state's keenness to attract investment and achieve a balance between protecting the local market and allowing residents to settle long-term.
When considering buying an apartment, a foreigner or resident must adhere to a set of essential conditions for selling property for non saudi, the most prominent of which are:
These conditions were established to regulate the real estate market and protect the rights of all parties, helping the resident to own with confidence without future legal risks.
One of the most common questions among those searching for apartments for sale in Riyadh for foreigners is: Does buying property in Saudi Arabia grant residency?
The precise answer is: Buying property does not automatically grant residency. However, it may pave the way for obtaining the Premium Residency for property owners upon meeting specific, officially approved conditions.
The Premium Residency (Real Estate Owner Category) requires that the value of the residential property is not less than 4 million Saudi Riyals, and that the property is completed, fully owned by the investor (not mortgaged or financed through a mortgage system). The property must also be for residential use only, without commercial use or short-term rental, and must be evaluated by appraisers accredited by the competent authorities.
These residency regulations do not include properties located within the boundaries of Makkah and Madinah for non-Muslims.
If the conditions are met, the Premium Residency grants important advantages, most notably residency with family, freedom of movement without a sponsor (kafeel), the ability to work in the private sector and practice commercial activities in accordance with regulations, in addition to exemption from some fees associated with expatriates.
In summary: Property ownership in Saudi Arabia is not a residency in itself, but it represents a legal pathway to obtaining stable, long-term residency when the required investment and real estate conditions are met. This makes ownership an attractive option for those wishing to settle in the Kingdom.
Owning property in Riyadh grants many benefits that make the decision attractive for foreigners and expatriates. Among the most prominent advantages of buying property in Saudi Arabia for foreigners are:
These factors have made Saudi real estate, especially in Riyadh, one of the safest assets for foreign investors.
Beyond housing, the advantages of buying property in Saudi Arabia for foreigners extend to the investment side, as the market is characterized by:
Therefore, many foreigners are turning to buying apartments in strategic locations within Riyadh with the aim of holding or renting them in the future.
Riyadh includes a large number of neighborhoods suitable for foreign ownership. The choice depends on the purpose of the purchase, whether for housing or investment. Among the most important criteria to consider are:
Choosing the right location is the most important factor in the success of the ownership experience.
The apartment purchase process goes through several organized stages, including:
Adherence to these steps reduces risks and ensures a smooth and secure purchasing experience.
The answer is yes, provided that regulations are adhered to and purchases are made through trusted entities. The Saudi real estate market is characterized by stability, and the state is continuously working to develop legislation that ensures transparency and protects investors.
With the massive urban expansion witnessed by Riyadh, opportunities for growth in property values are increasing, especially for residential apartments in vital locations.
Indications suggest that foreign ownership will witness more regulation and studied expansion in the coming years, keeping pace with economic and urban growth. This makes the decision to own today a smart step for those seeking stability or long-term investment.
Riyadh is witnessing an unprecedented real estate renaissance, placing it at the forefront of cities attracting residential investment in the Kingdom. This growth did not come in a vacuum; it was a direct result of urban expansion, increased housing demand, and the diversity of projects that meet the needs of both families and investors alike.
For residents and foreigners, real estate investment in Riyadh has become a practical choice that combines residential stability with the possibility of capital growth in the medium and long term, especially with clear regulations and multiple choices between ready or under-development apartments and villas.
Masaaken View project in Al Yarmouk district is a distinguished model for investment in ready residential villas within Riyadh. The project offers modern villas designed carefully to provide the highest degrees of privacy and comfort, with spacious areas suitable for large families. Prices start from 2,400,000 Saudi Riyals, reflecting the quality of finishes and the strategic location close to schools and essential services.
The limited number of available units enhances the investment value of the project, making it a suitable choice for those seeking stable residential investment in a district witnessing increasing demand.
Located in the Sulimaniyah district, one of Riyadh's most vibrant and active neighborhoods, Venti Square project enjoys a clear competitive advantage for both living and investment. The project offers ready villas with modern designs and spacious interiors, with prices starting from 1,000,000 Saudi Riyals, making it one of the attractive options for entering the real estate market in a central location.
The combination of a suitable price and a prestigious location gives the investor a good opportunity for future returns, especially with the continuous demand for residential properties in the city center.
Manafez Al Jazirah project in Al Qadisiyah district represents a practical choice for those wishing to own residential apartments that combine quality and an appropriate price. The project includes residential units with a modern design and smart space distribution, with options ranging from two to three bedrooms, and a starting price from 750,000 Saudi Riyals.
This balance between price and specifications makes the project suitable for residents and foreigners looking for freehold apartments that provide residential stability and an investment opportunity capable of growth over time.
V Tower project in the Al Sahafah district stands out as one of the modern projects meeting the aspirations of those seeking luxury living in North Riyadh. The project is offered off-plan and includes residential apartments with contemporary architectural designs and high-quality finishes, with prices starting from 1,314,600 Saudi Riyals. The project's location in a district with integrated infrastructure and proximity to vital facilities enhances its investment appeal, especially for those planning to benefit from value appreciation upon project completion and delivery.
Mada Properties is a trusted partner for anyone seeking secure real estate ownership within the Kingdom, especially for those looking for apartments for sale in Riyadh for foreigners. The company is distinguished by a precise understanding of the regulations governing non-Saudi ownership, ensuring clients a clear and smooth path from choosing the property to completing ownership procedures systematically.
Mada Properties plays a pivotal role in simplifying procedures by providing specialized consultations that clarify ownership conditions, application mechanisms, and regulatory requirements, while connecting the client with approved and suitable projects for their legal and investment status. It also strives to provide housing options that comply with the requirements of official authorities, whether for residential ownership or long-term investment goals.
Thanks to its wide network and deep knowledge of the Riyadh market, Mada Properties helps foreigners make informed decisions that achieve both residential stability and investment value, with a full commitment to transparency and credibility in all stages of dealing.
Owning residential apartments in Riyadh represents a real opportunity for foreigners seeking stability or investment within a strong and growing real estate market. With clear regulations and the availability of ownership according to specific guidelines, the option of apartments for sale in Riyadh for foreigners has become more organized and safer, especially for residents wishing to settle long-term.
Ownership may also constitute a supportive step towards obtaining additional benefits such as Premium Residency when meeting the approved conditions, without being a direct substitute for legal residency.
With the multiplicity of options and sometimes complex procedures, the importance of resorting to a specialized real estate entity with experience and knowledge of the local market becomes evident. This is where the role of Mada Properties comes in, to facilitate the ownership journey, provide studied solutions that help foreigners choose the appropriate property, understand regulatory requirements, and achieve maximum benefit from real estate ownership opportunities in Riyadh with confidence and clarity.
A: Yes, non-Saudi residents are allowed to own a residential apartment in Riyadh after obtaining official approvals, in compliance with the regulations in force.
A: Generally, ownership of one property for residential purposes is allowed. Any additional ownership requires special approvals depending on the purpose of the purchase.
A: Buying property does not automatically grant residency. However, it may qualify for the Premium Residency for property owners upon meeting specific conditions.
A: It is required that the value of the residential property is not less than 4 million Saudi Riyals, and that it is completed and not mortgaged.
A: Yes, within Riyadh city, with the exception of some areas subject to special regulations. It is always advisable to verify before purchasing.
A: It is not mandatory, but dealing with a trusted real estate marketer like Mada Properties facilitates procedures and reduces risks.
Stay informed with expert-written articles and the latest trends in the real estate market.