Sep 11, 2025
The landscape of foreign property ownership in Saudi Arabia has fundamentally changed. For expatriates, investors, and global citizens asking, "Can foreigners own property in Saudi Arabia?" the answer is now a clear and exciting yes.
The historic Foreign Ownership of Real Estate Law, enacted in 2025, has opened doors that were once firmly closed. This transformative legislation moves property ownership from a distant dream to a tangible reality, offering a structured pathway for personal residence and strategic investment, particularly in booming areas like North Riyadh.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the new property ownership law, your legal ownership rights, and how to navigate this promising market with confidence.
Gone are the days of ambiguity. The 2025 law provides a clear framework for foreign investment in real estate in Saudi Arabia. However, it is not a free-for-all; it establishes specific zones and regulations designed to protect the market and the buyer.
The law is set for full implementation in early 2026, pending the release of its final Executive Bylaws. These bylaws will detail the precise conditions, eligible areas, and types of properties available for foreign ownership, ensuring a transparent and regulated process from the outset.
The law distinguishes between different types of buyers, creating tailored pathways for each:
A core feature of the new property ownership rights is the concept of designated zones. Foreign ownership is permitted in carefully selected areas aligned with the nation's economic development plans.
This means prime opportunities exist in modern residential compounds and, most notably, in the dynamic apartments for sale in Riyadh's northern sector, where mega-projects are driving rapid growth and appreciation.
The main exceptions are the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, where direct foreign ownership remains restricted. Indirect investment in these markets is possible through publicly listed companies on the Saudi stock exchange (Tadawul).
North Riyadh is the epicenter of foreign investment in real estate in Saudi Arabia. For those considering buying property in Saudi Arabia as a foreigner, off-plan projects here offer two distinct advantages:
Crucially, regulations mandate that all off-plan projects must be licensed by the Off-Plan Sales and Real Estate Development Authority (Wafi), and buyer funds must be held in secure escrow accounts. This ensures your investment is protected throughout the construction period.
Buying property in Saudi Arabia as a foreigner is a journey that requires due diligence. Follow these steps for a secure transaction:
Understanding the financial implications is critical for any investment.
In a market saturated with endless choices and noise, we at Mada Properties believe in the power of quality over quantity. That's why we don't offer you an overwhelming list of projects. Instead, we present a carefully curated portfolio of premium, Wafi-licensed developments, featuring transparent and secure payment plans designed to give you complete peace of mind and confidence in your investment.
When you invest here, you're not just buying an apartment; you're securing a place in the future of North Riyadh. With starting prices from 1,925,000 SAR, Ivory II Tower boasts an elegant and modern design that offers a refined living experience. Its strategic location in the vibrant Al-Sahafa district places you at the epicenter of growth, just moments away from major highways, business hubs, and commercial centers. Coupled with a comfortable payment plan starting at just 20% upfront and staggered installments until handover, this project is the perfect choice for families seeking a modern lifestyle and a smart investment that appreciates over time.
This is where luxury seamlessly meets comfort. Starting at 1,875,000 SAR, Majestic Tower offers spacious residential units crafted to the highest international standards. The project provides a comprehensive suite of amenities designed to cater to your every daily need, from premium recreational facilities to round-the-clock security. It is more than just an address; it is a distinguished lifestyle for those who demand the best. Its flexible payment plan (20% down payment) makes owning this unique experience within your reach.
For those who thrive on centrality and vibrancy, yamama city center offers an unmatched location in one of the capital's most prestigious neighborhoods. With prices starting from 1,900,000 SAR, you will live in the heart of Al-Olaya, surrounded by the finest shopping malls, world-class restaurants, and corporate headquarters. This project is the ideal blend of residential stability and promising commercial investment opportunities, ensuring you a strong long-term return.
With Mada Properties, these projects are not merely real estate units to be bought and sold. They are gateways opening doors to a new life full of potential and a solid foundation for a secure investment in the promising future of Saudi Arabia. We are not selling you four walls; we are mapping out a path to a brighter tomorrow.
The question is no longer "Can foreigners own property in Saudi Arabia?" but "How can I securely own a piece of its future?" With a clear legal framework and unparalleled growth potential, especially in Riyadh, the opportunity is real.
At Mada, we don't just sell apartments; we guide you through every step—from your first question to receiving your keys. We provide the clarity and security you need to make one of the most important decisions of your life.
Ready to explore your options? Contact Mada Properties today and let us help you find your perfect property in Saudi Arabia.
Q: Can foreigners really own property in Saudi Arabia?
A: Yes. The 2025 Foreign Ownership Law permits it, with full implementation and detailed bylaws expected in early 2026.
Q: Can foreigners buy property in Makkah or Madinah?
A: Direct ownership in the two holy cities is restricted. However, indirect investment is possible through shares in publicly listed real estate companies.
Q: What taxes apply to foreign property buyers?
A: A 5% Real Estate Transaction Tax (RETT) is due upon property transfer. Foreign buyers are not eligible for VAT exemptions available to Saudi citizens.
Q: How can I ensure an off-plan project is safe?
A: Always verify the project's Wafi license and ensure all payments are made into the official escrow account listed under that license.
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