Can Expats Buy Property in Madinah? Real Estate Laws Explained
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Can Expats Buy Property in Madinah? Real Estate Laws Explained
Saudi Arabia has introduced updated regulations allowing foreigners to own real estate, but with key restrictions in Makkah and Madinah
In a major shift for Saudi Arabia’s real estate market, the government has approved new rules permitting expatriates to buy property—with special conditions for the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
Can Expats Own Property in Madinah?
Yes, but with stricter regulations compared to other Saudi cities. Under the newly approved system, non-Saudis can purchase real estate in Riyadh and Jeddah with fewer restrictions, while ownership in Madinah and Makkah will be subject to additional controls.
Saudi Minister of Municipal, Rural Affairs, and Housing Majid Al-Hogail confirmed that the policy ensures a balance between foreign investment and protecting local interests, particularly in religiously significant areas.
Key Rules for Expats Buying Property in Saudi Arabia
- Geographic Restrictions
- Allowed with conditions: Madinah & Makkah
- Open for ownership: Riyadh, Jeddah, and other major cities
- The General Real Estate Authority will define specific zones where foreigners can buy.
- Implementation Timeline
- The law takes effect in January 2026.
- Full details will be announced within 180 days via the Istitlaa platform.
- Alignment with Other Laws
- The new rules work alongside the Premium Residency program and GCC ownership laws.
- Non-Saudis can own property for residence or investment.
Why Is This a Big Deal?
- Boosts foreign investment: Expected to attract billions in real estate deals.
- Increases housing supply: More projects likely in Riyadh, Jeddah, and NEOM.
- Strict controls in holy cities: Makkah & Madinah will have safeguards to prevent market disruptions.
Expert Opinions
Ahmed Al-Faqeeh, a Saudi real estate analyst, says:
“This will bring global developers into the market, but Madinah and Makkah will remain highly regulated to preserve their cultural and religious significance.”
Mohammed Al-Maymoni, a financial advisor, adds:
“Banks will expand mortgage options, and expats will have more choices—just not complete freedom in the Two Holy Mosques’ cities.”
Bottom Line
Expats can buy property in Madinah, but with tighter rules than in other Saudi cities. The full guidelines will be clear by mid-2026, shaping a new era for Saudi real estate.
Details of the Law
The executive regulations of the system will be introduced within 180 days of its publication in the official gazette through the Istitlaa platform. These will include details on procedures, legal, economic, and social requirements related to non-Saudi ownership of real estate, in preparation for its enforcement in January 2026.
The new system aligns with the provisions of the Premium Residency program, regulations governing GCC citizens’ ownership of real estate for housing or investment purposes, and existing laws granting non-Saudis privileges to own property and acquire other property rights.