Foreigners’ Freehold Property Zones in Riyadh 2026

Riyadh differs from other Saudi cities open to foreign ownership in a fundamental way: all its approved areas are major urban development projects, not traditional residential neighborhoods. This means that a foreign investor buying in Riyadh enters a market of units built within integrated, well-planned communities, with different considerations regarding feasibility, development stage, and return prospects. Here, we detail each of the 8 approved areas sufficiently to make an informed decision, and explain what makes Riyadh a unique real estate investment destination for foreigners today. For full legal requirements and your eligibility for ownership as a foreigner, refer to Conditions for Non-Saudi Property Ownership.

Why choose Riyadh for foreign ownership in Saudi Arabia?

Riyadh is the fastest-growing capital in the region in terms of population, GDP, and infrastructure simultaneously. Its population has surpassed 8 million, and the urban area aims to double by 2030 with simultaneous development projects spanning entertainment, finance, and mobility. The projects approved for foreign ownership in Riyadh are mostly in the second ring, meaning that foreign investors today enter during the development phase, not the maturity phase. This presents an opportunity for higher returns but requires understanding the stages of completion and delivery schedules before making any commitment.

In addition, the Regional Headquarters Program (RHQ) has attracted hundreds of international companies to relocate their regional headquarters to Riyadh, creating sustainable demand for residential rentals from high-income expatriate employees and enhancing the city’s rental investment appeal.

The 8 Approved Areas in Riyadh for Freehold Ownership

Here are details of the projects related to the 8 areas in Riyadh that allow freehold ownership for foreigners:

1. Qiddiya

Qiddiya is a massive government project covering a total area of 360 square kilometers, located on the outskirts of Riyadh and fully owned by the Public Investment Fund. It focuses on entertainment, sports, and culture with the concept of an integrated city, aiming to attract millions of visitors annually. The residential units available for foreigners are within integrated residential communities with service facilities. The expected annual return ranges between 5% and 9% in vibrant neighborhoods, with the main phases targeted for completion by 2030.

This is suitable for investors seeking rental returns from units near a major entertainment destination and those willing to commit to a medium-term investment horizon (3-5 years) until the phases are completed.

Read also: Foreign Property Ownership in Medina

2. New Murabba

New Murabba is one of the largest modern urban projects, featuring advanced residential, commercial, and tourism facilities. It is expected to create vast investment and real estate opportunities within the capital. Located in the heart of North Riyadh, it spans a large area and includes a massive cube-shaped tower, making it one of the boldest architectural projects in the world. For this project in particular, the timeline for offering residential units for sale is gradual, and it is recommended to check the currently available offerings before making a purchase decision.

This is suitable for investors betting on land value and the project's brand more than immediate rental returns.

3. Sports Boulevard and Arts District

The Sports Boulevard project stretches along a network of interconnected sports tracks and recreational facilities, with a dedicated area for arts and culture. The project aims to enhance quality of life by creating a network of sports tracks and recreational facilities, increasing the appeal and value of neighborhoods within its scope. The available residential units here are especially suitable for those who value a healthy and cultural lifestyle.

This is suitable for foreign residents seeking high quality of life housing rather than pure investment.

4. Diriyah Gate

Diriyah Gate is a unique heritage and cultural destination in Riyadh, linking available properties to the historic Diriyah site (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Investment here is both touristic and cultural, with demand for short-term rentals (for visitors and tourists) being a key attraction. Available units vary between hotel and high-end residential types.

This is suitable for investors interested in hotel or short-term rentals, or those seeking a property in a uniquely heritage location.

Read also: Cheap Properties for Sale in Saudi Arabia

5. King Salman Park

This grand park project will be one of the largest public parks in the region, surrounded by integrated residential development and near a huge environmental and entertainment project that increases the appeal and long-term value of surrounding residential units, similar to cities where property prices have risen around major green spaces.

This is suitable for families seeking a quiet residential environment with outdoor facilities near the capital.

6. Sedra

Sedra Integrated Residential Community in North Riyadh features a gated community design offering privacy and security, with educational, health, and recreational facilities inside. Among the 8 options, this is the closest to the concept of a traditional integrated residential community, making it most suitable for foreign residents seeking actual housing rather than pure investment.

This is suitable for foreign residents with families who want a community with comprehensive internal services.

Read also: Roya Sedra - Apartments for Sale in North Riyadh

7. King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD)

The King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) is one of the most prominent financial centers in the region. This area is fundamentally different from the other 8, as it is a specialized business and financial center near King Khalid International Airport. The available units here are more service-oriented properties (executive housing, hotel apartments, serviced offices) targeting executives and international travelers. Rental demand is stable due to the institutional nature of the area.

This is suitable for institutional investors or those seeking stable rental returns from high-income segments.

8. King Salman International Airport and Transit-Oriented Development Areas

King Salman International Airport is expected to become one of the largest airports in the world, boosting Riyadh’s status as a global economic and investment hub and increasing demand for all types of properties. The residential and commercial projects oriented toward public transit around the airport aim to benefit from the movement of travelers and logistics sector workers. Proximity to projects like Qiddiya and King Salman Airport creates positive expectations for property prices in the area, with anticipated increases in the range of 2,000-5,000 SAR/m².

This is suitable for investors betting on market value growth as the airport is completed over the medium term.

General Purchase Costs in Riyadh for Foreigners

The property price is not the only cost. Foreigners buying in Riyadh are subject to two layers of government fees: Real Estate Transaction Tax (RETT) at 5% of the total transaction value, applicable to all buyers regardless of nationality, plus a fee for Non-Saudi Ownership up to a maximum of 5% according to the Non-Saudi Property Ownership Law. For foreign buyers, the foreign ownership framework adds an extra fee related to foreign ownership at 5%, making the total government fees close to 10% of the purchase price. In addition, VAT (15%) applies to services related to the transaction such as brokerage, valuation, and legal consultation — not to the property itself.

This means the actual purchase budget should include at least an extra 10% above the property price to cover fees, in addition to valuation and documentation costs.

Read also: Real Estate Investment in Saudi Arabia After Approval of Foreign Ownership Regulations

How to Choose Among the Foreign Property Ownership Areas in Riyadh?

The question is not "Which project is best?" but "What is your goal for owning property in Riyadh?":

Your goal is actual housing with your family: Sedra or Sports Boulevard, as they are integrated communities with daily services.

Your goal is immediate rental return: KAFD or Qiddiya, as they have stable rental demand from clear target segments.

Your goal is medium-term value growth: King Salman Airport, New Murabba, Diriyah Gate — betting on future value with a longer time horizon.

Your goal is combining ownership with Premium Residency (4 million SAR+): Start by identifying which areas offer units at or above this threshold before searching for a location, as some projects offer units below this limit.

At Imtilak Global Saudi Arabia, we review the actual completion status and delivery schedules for each project before offering any unit, and match the selection with the client’s goal from the start. Speak to a Riyadh Market Specialist to get an accurate picture of what is actually available for sale now in each area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a foreigner buy property in any neighborhood in Riyadh?

No, ownership is limited to the 8 officially approved areas mentioned above. Foreigners cannot own property in traditional Riyadh neighborhoods outside these areas, even if they meet the ownership requirements.

What is the lowest expected price for a unit in the approved areas of Riyadh?

Prices vary greatly depending on the project, completion stage, and unit type. For up-to-date prices of what is actually available for sale today, direct verification with the developer or a knowledgeable real estate consultant is more accurate than any general figure.

Are all 8 Riyadh projects ready for immediate occupancy?

No, most are at various stages of development. Some offer units ready for immediate delivery, while others sell off-plan with payment schedules tied to completion milestones. This is a key difference that must be checked for each project individually.

Does the 90-day period for property owner residency apply to Riyadh areas?

Yes. If you are targeting "Property Owner Residency" and decide to sell your property in any of the Riyadh areas, you have only 90 days to replace it with another property worth at least 4 million SAR to maintain your residency.