Saudi Arabia opened a portal for foreign real estate ownership
The Real Estate General Authority (REGA) of Saudi Arabia has launched the "Saudi Properties" portal. The portal provides a formal digital channel for foreigners to purchase property in the country under the Foreign Real Estate Ownership Law, which comes into force in January 2026. Applications are fully electronic.
What Happened
Saudi Arabia's Real Estate General Authority (REGA) launched the "Saudi Properties" portal. The portal provides foreigners with an official digital channel to purchase property in the country under the Foreign Real Estate Ownership Law, which comes into effect in January 2026. Applications are processed entirely electronically.
Why It Matters
This step is part of Saudi Arabia's strategy to diversify its economy and attract foreign investments. By granting foreigners access to the real estate market, the kingdom aims to increase its tourism and business appeal in the region. For the HoReCa sector, this could mean an influx of foreign capital into the construction of new hotels, restaurants, and tourism facilities.
Lesson for Azerbaijani HoReCa
Azerbaijan can also implement digital solutions to attract foreign investors. Streamlined online platforms operating on a single-window principle would simplify real estate purchases for non-residents and stimulate investment in tourism infrastructure.
Risk
Restrictions on property rights in Mecca and Medina (only for Muslims) exclude certain investors. If Azerbaijan were to impose similar restrictions on religiously or culturally sensitive areas, it could reduce the interest of potential investors.
DK Perspective
Saudi Arabia is accelerating investment flow through digitalization – Azerbaijan should monitor and adapt.