Unlocking Saudi: Why the Kingdom’s New Property Law Could Redefine Global Investment for Expats

I recently had the opportunity to discuss with Arabian Gulf Business Insight the hot topic of Saudi Arabia’s ground breaking new property law, which is set to transform the investment landscape for expats.

Here, I take a closer look at what this change really means and share my thoughts on how it creates exciting new opportunities for global investors, businesses, and professionals looking to build a long-term future in Saudi Arabia.

❝ It’s not just about owning property. It’s about getting a front-row seat to one of the boldest economic reinventions of our time. ❞

That’s the feeling I’ve had speaking with clients, developers, and institutional partners in recent months. There’s a stirring in the air, not unlike Dubai in the early 2000s. But this time, it’s Saudi Arabia rewriting the rulebook.

The Headline That Quietly Changed Everything

In July 2025, the Saudi government released what may be the most consequential piece of real estate legislation in its modern history: a new law that allows foreign individuals and companies to buy and own property in the Kingdom, legally, directly, and, for the first time, without the scaffolding of local ownership workarounds.

It comes into effect in January 2026, and while the headlines were measured, those of us who’ve worked across global jurisdictions know what this signals: Saudi Arabia is opening its doors not just to tourists or talent, but to long-term capital.

What We Know. And What We Don’t (Yet)

What We Know:

The Saudi government has confirmed that foreign ownership of property will be legal starting in January 2026. However, this will be restricted to designated areas, such as Riyadh, Jeddah, NEOM, and the Red Sea coast. Investors will be granted full ownership rights, as well as leasehold, usufruct, and mortgage rights. However, Makkah and Madinah will remain off-limits to foreign ownership, with only very limited corporate exceptions. All transactions related to foreign property ownership will be handled through the Real Estate General Authority (REGA).

What’s Still in the Grey:

While the law has been announced, some crucial details remain unclear. For example, exact zoning maps indicating where foreign ownership will be permitted have yet to be released. Pricing and any premium fees for foreign buyers also remain to be determined. Additionally, financing options for foreign nationals will likely be limited, with full access potentially only available to residents or through local banks. The tax implications for international investors are still being clarified, and as always, navigating these uncertainties will require experience and foresight.

This is where experience matters. We’ve seen this kind of legislative rollout before. It always starts with a broad legal stroke, then regulators paint in the lines. And it’s in those fine lines where the real advantage lies for those who move early.

Why This Matters: Vision 2030 Is No Slogan

Saudi Arabia isn’t tinkering at the edges. Vision 2030 is a blueprint for wholesale transformation, from energy to education, tourism to tech, and now, from ownership restricted to open investment.

To put this into perspective, the Kingdom has committed over $1.3 trillion to large-scale projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, The Line, and the Red Sea Project. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to reshape the country’s infrastructure and attract global talent. Saudi Arabia is also targeting 100 million visitors annually by 2030, demonstrating its commitment to becoming a major global hub. Already, the country has launched Premium Residency, akin to a "Saudi Green Card," and established special economic zones designed to welcome international investors.

Opening real estate to foreign ownership isn’t a gimmick. It’s a strategic shift to diversify the economy, invite longer-term stays, and attract new demographics of capital.‍

What It Means for Expats, Investors, and Entrepreneurs

I’ve worked with expats across the Gulf for over two decades. And here’s what I know: most don’t want to rent forever, especially in a place with serious long-term potential. The new property law opens up the residency-ownership loop, allowing foreign investors to anchor their capital in appreciating assets tied to Saudi Arabia’s ongoing national growth. Businesses will now be able to own commercial premises in strategic growth zones, offering new opportunities for expansion. For professional expats whether doctors, engineers, or executives; the law enables long-term financial planning with a true sense of stability and opportunity for the future.

On the Ground: What People Are Saying

“Saudi is the next big thing, so we’re making the shift.”
— Sufyan El Faitouri, DarGlobal

“Nothing is black and white, it’s still grey. But that’s a good thing. It’s the right time to be there.”
— Dory J. Sakr, BARNES Dubai

These aren’t just quotes from agents, they’re sentiments from people in the thick of it. And I agree with them. The law may still be in outline form, but timing matters in real estate more than certainty ever will.

The Parallel: Dubai in 2003… and What Happened Next

Let’s not forget: when Dubai first allowed foreign freehold ownership, the world shrugged. But those who acted early didn’t just buy apartments, they bought into a city that would become a global powerhouse.

I remember sitting in meetings in 2004, explaining to clients why a patch of sand near Jumeirah was about to become a business hub. Many hesitated. Those who didn’t? Today they’re sitting on multi-million-dirham returns. Saudi feels similar, but on a larger scale.

Smart Questions to Ask Now

If you’re an investor, expat, or even a business owner eyeing the Kingdom, ask yourself:

• Which zones will be released first, and why?
• Is there rental demand in those areas already?
• How will liquidity work for resale?
• What’s the legal recourse under Saudi law?
• Can I use my property to support a residency or business licence?
• How is Skybound Wealth positioned to guide me through this change? 

Be Curious, Not Cautious

This isn’t about speculation. It’s about strategic curiosity. Saudi Arabia is rewriting its relationship with the world. And property, arguably the most intimate, long-term kind of economic trust, is now on the table. You don’t need to move tomorrow. But if you’re not paying attention now, you’ll be reacting later.

At Skybound Wealth, we help clients do the opposite: prepare, plan, and position early, before the headlines become history.

Let’s Have a Conversation

If you’re curious about investing in Saudi property, or simply want to understand what this shift could mean for your portfolio, this is the time to talk.

As featured in Arabian Gulf Business Insight. Expanded with exclusive insights from Mike Coady, CEO of Skybound Wealth and 20-year Dubai resident.