Restrictions have been lifted on key land transactions—such as sales, purchases, subdivisions, and permits—in two major northern zones of Riyadh. These newly released areas cover a combined total of over 33 square kilometers, expanding the city’s developable land pool to 81.48 square kilometers.
Affordable Residential Plots for Citizens
The Royal Commission for Riyadh City will now provide between 10,000 to 40,000 ready-to-build residential plots every year over the next five years. These plots will be priced at a maximum of SAR 1,500 per square meter and offered to Saudi citizens aged 25 and above who don’t currently own property. To prevent speculative buying, buyers will be required to hold onto the land for 10 years before selling, renting, or mortgaging—unless used for building purposes.
Revision of White Land Tax Law
Within 60 days, the government plans to amend the White Land Tax Law, which was initially introduced to push the development of vacant urban land. These updates are expected to further stimulate housing supply and reduce artificial land hoarding.
Strengthening Landlord-Tenant Laws
New regulations will be introduced within 90 days to foster a fairer rental market and strengthen tenant rights, ensuring balanced and transparent relationships between landlords and renters.
Real-Time Price Monitoring
The General Real Estate Authority and the Royal Commission for Riyadh City will take on expanded roles in tracking property prices and issuing regular market updates. This will help maintain transparency and discourage price manipulation.
These reforms are aligned with the national goal of raising homeownership among Saudi citizens from 63.7% to 70% by 2030. Riyadh, which currently has a lower ownership rate of 53.2%, is expected to benefit significantly from these policy shifts.
By implementing these measures, Saudi Arabia is not only addressing the immediate challenges in its housing market but also laying the groundwork for a more sustainable and inclusive urban future in its capital city.
