Saudi Arabia has taken a historic step toward liberalising its property market, with the Cabinet approving digital identification for non-resident foreigners to own real estate.

The move, tied to the new non-Saudi Real Estate Ownership Law effective January 2026, paves the way for global investors to access the Kingdom’s real estate sector through a streamlined digital ID system, according to a Saudi Gazette report.

To support the rollout, the General Real Estate Authority will work with the Ministry of Interior, the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), the National Information Center, and other relevant entities to activate and regulate the digital ID mechanism.

The cabinet also backed governance measures proposed by the Strategic Committee of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs, which include forming a specialised committee within the Real Estate Authority to oversee non-Saudi ownership and usufruct rights.

Additionally, the board of the General Real Estate Authority has been restructured, now chaired by its CEO and composed of representatives from various ministries, government entities, and three members from the private sector.

In July, the Cabinet formally approved the non-Saudi Real Estate Ownership Law. Just last month, draft executive regulations were published, laying out the conditions for non-resident ownership.

To qualify, foreign buyers must activate a digital ID via the Absher platform, open a Saudi bank account, and obtain a local contact number, setting the stage for a more accessible property market for global investors.