كيف يمكن للمستثمرين الأجانب الحصول على الإقامة الدائمة في المملكة العربية السعودية (ابتداءً من عام 2026)
Saudi Arabia is taking a bold step forward in attracting global investment—and I’ve never been more optimistic about the country’s real estate future.
A new system has been officially approved by the Saudi Cabinet, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Beginning from January 2026, foreign investors will be able to own real estate and qualify for Saudi Arabia permanent residency.
This is a massive milestone, for both the Saudi economy and for international investors who want more than just ROI. They want stability, opportunity, and a permanent footprint in a rising global hub.
Vision 2030 Is the Driving Force
This move is part of Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s long-term transformation strategy. It will help diversify our economy and make real estate development sustainable — not just profitable.
From my experience in the field, I see three main goals this law is set to achieve:
- Attract global developers and real estate investors to participate in Saudi Arabia’s growth
- Position cities like Riyadh and Jeddah as leading global investment hubs
- Help bring in over $100 billion in foreign investment by 2030, boosting economic growth, creating jobs, and increasing demand for high-quality housing
The result? A surge in housing demand, job creation, and economic diversification, that are key pillars of the Vision 2030 strategy.
Real Estate’s Share in the Economy Is Growing Fast
Over the last five years, the real estate sector’s contribution to our national GDP has more than doubled—from around 6% in 2017 to approximately 14% today in 2025.
I believe this new residency-linked ownership model, will help the sector to grow even more. We’ll see more buyers, more projects, and more global capital flowing in.
Where Foreigners Can Own Property
The executive regulations are still being finalized, but here’s what we know so far:
- This will allow the foreigners to own properties in designated investment zones
- In Riyadh, this includes areas like Diriyah, New Murabba, Sports Boulevard, and Mukaab
- For Mecca and Medina, special rules will apply, especially for Muslim investors, with consideration for ownership or long-term lease options (up to 99 years) in projects like Knowledge Economic City
This means foreign investors and Muslim expatriates can now look at Mecca and Medina as permanent residence option, not just rental market.
What This Means for Saudi Residents
Many expatriates have lived in Saudi Arabia for years, without owning a home. That’s about to change.
Previously, residents were only allowed to own a single home for personal use, and that only with special approval. But under the new system, I believe the Saudi residents will be among the first to benefit, especially in cities like Riyadh, where the population is expected to reach 9 million by 2030.
As demand rises, I expect more developers and financing institutions to offer products tailored to both residents and foreign nationals.
Financing Is Evolving Too
Financing has been one of the biggest barriers to foreign ownership. That’s starting to shift too.
- Some local banks offer financing with 30–50% down payments
- Tadawul-listed developers are starting to offer off-plan purchase options for residents
Looking ahead, I expect international financing companies to enter the market. That means better rates, more options, and more competition—all of which benefit the buyer.
Real Estate Supports the Entire Economy
Real estate isn’t just about buildings—it touches everything. There are more than 400 industries connected to real estate, from construction and banking to furniture and appliances. When real estate grows, job creation follows. In fact, Saudi Arabia recently hit its lowest unemployment rate ever, now hovering around 6%. That momentum is only going to grow as more investment flows in.
Why Saudi Arabia Permanent Residency Law Is a Game Changer
This is one of the most investor-friendly moves Saudi Arabia has ever made. Here’s why:
- You can now own real estate and qualify for permanent residency in Saudi Arbia
- You gain long-term access to healthcare, education, banking, and more
- There are no income taxes, no inheritance taxes, and no capital gains tax
- You’re investing in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies with strong government backing
As a real estate advisor, I’ve seen plenty of cycles. But what’s happening now? This is unprecedented. And it’s just the beginning.
What You Should Do As An Investor?
This new law doesn’t just allow property ownership. It opens a door—to permanent residency, economic mobility, and long-term investment security. As someone deeply embedded in the Saudi real estate market, I believe January 2026 will mark the start of a new era.
Whether you’re looking for a family home, an off-plan opportunity, or a strategic investment asset, this is the time to move.
Want to be among the first to own and qualify for residency?
Let’s talk. I’ll help you find the right property, secure financing, and position yourself for success in Saudi Arabia’s next real estate chapter.
