Saudi Arabia has introduced new requirements for non-resident foreign companies seeking to own property in the Kingdom without establishing or conducting economic activities, under regulatory updates included in the Investor Guide 2026.
The Ministry of Investment said the new framework is offered to provide greater clarity for foreign entities interested in real estate ownership while supporting the implementation of Saudi Arabia's updated investment regulations.
New registration requirements
Under the new rules, foreign companies must submit a commercial registration certificate issued in their home country along with their articles of incorporation. The documents must be translated by accredited translators and authenticated through Saudi diplomatic channels, according to a report by Gulf News.
Companies will also be required to provide documentation authorising a representative to act on their behalf in Saudi Arabia.
According to the ministry, applicants must appoint an individual representative through a certified power of attorney to complete registration procedures. Foreign companies that do not possess an identification document recognised under Saudi regulations must obtain a digital identity through Saudi diplomatic missions abroad.
For annual registration renewals, companies must confirm that no changes have taken place in their ownership structure or management since registering with the Ministry of Investment.
Property ownership procedures detailed
The new rules are available through the ministry's electronic platform and form part of a dedicated section introduced in the Investor Guide 2026 for the registration of non-Saudi companies seeking property ownership.
The guide outlines procedures covering property acquisition, appointment of authorised representatives, asset management and disposal, opening bank accounts, and updating company information with relevant authorities.
According to Gulf News report, the Ministry of Investment said the property ownership chapter is among the most significant additions to the latest edition of the guide, offering a more detailed regulatory framework for foreign corporate real estate ownership than previously available.
The move forms part of Saudi Arabia's broader efforts to improve transparency and provide clearer regulations for foreign investors seeking opportunities in the Kingdom's property market.
