Saudi Arabia Approves Digital ID System for Foreign Property Ownership

Saudi Arabia has taken a significant step toward opening its real estate market to global investors, with the Cabinet approving the use of digital identification for non-resident foreigners to own property in the Kingdom.

The move forms part of the implementation of the Non-Saudi Real Estate Ownership Law, which is scheduled to come into effect in January 2026, according to a report by the Saudi Gazette. The landmark decision aligns with the Kingdom’s ongoing economic reforms under Vision 2030, aimed at diversifying the economy and enhancing foreign investment opportunities.

To facilitate the rollout, the General Real Estate Authority will collaborate with the Ministry of Interior, the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), the National Information Center, and other relevant government bodies. Together, these entities will regulate and activate the use of digital IDs, providing non-Saudis with a secure mechanism to participate in the property market.

Governance Overhaul and New Committee Formation
In addition to the digital ID approval, the Cabinet endorsed governance reforms proposed by the Strategic Committee of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs. A specialized committee will be established within the General Real Estate Authority to supervise matters related to non-Saudi ownership and usufruct rights.

The board of the General Real Estate Authority has also undergone restructuring. It will now be chaired by its CEO and will include representatives from multiple ministries, government organizations, as well as three members from the private sector. The updated structure is intended to strengthen oversight, streamline decision-making, and ensure that foreign ownership policies align with national priorities.

Key Requirements for Foreign Buyers
In July, the Cabinet formally passed the Non-Saudi Real Estate Ownership Law, followed by the release of draft executive regulations last month. These regulations outline the criteria foreign buyers must meet to purchase property in the Kingdom.

Among the requirements, non-resident investors must activate a digital ID through the government’s Absher platform, open a Saudi bank account, and secure a local mobile number. These measures aim to create a transparent framework that allows international investors to integrate smoothly into the Saudi property market.

The introduction of digital IDs for foreign ownership represents a transformative step for the Kingdom’s real estate sector. By reducing administrative barriers and ensuring secure digital verification, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a more attractive destination for global property investment.

Industry observers note that the reform not only provides a gateway for international investors to tap into the Saudi property market but also complements the Kingdom’s broader strategy of boosting non-oil sectors, stimulating economic diversification, and enhancing its global competitiveness.

With the law set to take effect in 2026, the coming months are expected to bring further clarity on the detailed regulatory framework and market opportunities for foreign buyers.