Saudi Arabia has approved a landmark policy allowing Muslims to own property in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah under regulated conditions in a bid to attract global investment, expand housing, and accelerate urban development while preserving the sanctity of Islam’s holiest sites in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals.
For many years, foreign Muslims visiting Masjid al-Haram and Masjid an-Nabawi were only allowed to rent property and not own it.
Under Saudi Arabia’s previous real estate law, which has been in place since 2000, non-Saudis were not allowed to buy property in the two holy cities. Only a few exceptions were made, such as for inheritance or religious endowments. This rule has now changed.
The Saudi Cabinet, led by King Salman bin Abdul-Aziz, approved the geographic zones and the full legal framework for allowing foreign property ownership on June 23, 2026 (27 Dhul Hijjah 1447).
On the same day, the Real Estate General Authority (REGA) launched the “Saudi Properties” portal, which is the official and only online platform for foreigners to apply for property ownership.
Through this new system, foreign ownership applications will now be processed digitally under the updated regulations.
Who Can Buy
Only Muslims. Non-Muslims remain completely prohibited from entering or owning property in Makkah and Madinah. Muslim individuals from any country, whether resident in Saudi Arabia or living abroad, are now eligible to purchase freehold property within the approved zones.
Where Are the Approved Zones
Ownership is not allowed in all parts of the cities. Instead, buyers can only purchase property in specific zones that are approved by REGA and located near the holy mosques.
In Makkah, these approved areas include: Jabal Omar, Abraj Makkah, Al-Manar, Burj Ajyad, King Salman Gate, Tilal Village, Dhakhir Makkah, Dahiyat Sumou, Masar, and Makkah Zones 1 and 2.
In Madinah, the allowed zones are: Ruaa Al-Madinah, Downtown Madinah, Diyar Al-Maqar, Al-Ghurra, Al-Mahwa, Darat Al-Hijra, and Madinah Zones 1 and 2.
How to Apply
Applications are handled through the Saudi Properties portal at saudiproperties.rega.gov.sa. Saudi residents can apply directly using their Iqama number, and their eligibility is checked automatically through a digital system. Applicants living outside Saudi Arabia must first obtain a digital identity card from a Saudi embassy or consulate before they can submit their application online.
