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Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Saudi Arabia is implementing new regulations for non-Saudi real estate ownership, focusing on transparency and financial integrity.
- Key measures include a unified electronic portal for transactions and mandatory disclosure of beneficial owners for foreign entities.
- The regulations aim to enhance market governance, attract investment, and prevent illicit financial flows.
Saudi Arabia is set to introduce stringent executive regulations for non-Saudi real estate ownership, prioritizing transparency and financial integrity to bolster the market's governance and investment appeal. These upcoming measures represent a significant development in the Kingdom's real estate sector.
The next phase will unveil a package of strict rules, notably the creation of a unified electronic portal for real estate transactions. This portal will connect directly to the national real estate registry. Furthermore, the regulations will mandate the full disclosure of direct and indirect beneficial owners of any foreign entities involved in property acquisition. All property-related financial transactions will be required to use electronic payment methods, enhancing procedural reliability and improving oversight efficiency.
These regulatory measures, approved by the Council of Ministers, aim to establish a new digital and regulatory framework. By making electronic payments mandatory, the Kingdom seeks to strengthen governance and curb undocumented financial flows within one of its most dynamic economic sectors. The Council of Ministers also endorsed specific geographical areas where non-Saudis will be permitted to own property.
The new rules outline specific requirements for different types of applicants. Non-resident individuals must obtain a digital identity, open a local bank account, and secure a Saudi mobile number registered in their name. Foreign companies are required to register with the Ministry of Investment, fully disclose their owners, and ensure their legal representative holds a Saudi-issued identity. The company must also open a bank account in Saudi Arabia. Upon meeting these conditions, the Ministry of Investment will issue a dedicated registration number.
Originally published by Asharq Al-Awsat. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.