Saudi Arabia Requires Digital ID for Non-Resident Property Buyers from 2026

In a move that affects expatriates and international investors alike, Saudi Arabia’s Cabinet has approved the use of digital identification for non-resident foreigners who wish to own or use property in the Kingdom. This decision supports the implementation of the new Non-Saudi Real Estate Ownership Law, which will come into force on 21 January 2026 (180 days after publication).

What changed and who is affected?

The Cabinet decision clarifies how non-resident foreigners will be identified and authorised when buying, leasing or using property in Saudi Arabia. The General Real Estate Authority (REGA) will work with the Ministry of Interior, the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), the National Information Center and other agencies to put technical and administrative rules in place for activating a digital ID for foreign buyers.

Those affected include non-resident individuals, companies and non-profit entities that are not resident in the Kingdom but seek to acquire property or usufruct rights (the right to use or profit from a property). The rules also apply to expatriate communities and overseas investors planning purchases ahead of 2026.

Key requirements for non-resident buyers (summary)

• Digital ID via Absher: Non-resident foreigners must obtain and activate a digital ID through the national e-services platform Absher.
• Saudi bank account: Buyers are required to open a local bank account before completing real estate transactions.
• Local mobile number: A Saudi mobile phone number is required for registration and communications related to the property.

These measures are intended to enhance transparency, improve regulatory oversight, and ensure traceability of property ownership, while enabling safe access for foreign investors as part of broader economic reforms.

Implementation, oversight and governance

The General Real Estate Authority will lead the operational rollout and create a specialised committee under its board to supervise foreign ownership and usufruct matters. The REGA board has been restructured so the CEO will chair the board and representatives from relevant ministries and agencies — alongside three private-sector members — will participate in governance.

This governance framework was backed by the Council of Economic and Development Affairs’ Strategic Committee and the Cabinet, and it aims to provide clear oversight once the law becomes enforceable.

How this fits into Vision 2030 and wider reform

The digital ID requirement is part of a wider package of reforms designed to modernise Saudi Arabia’s real estate sector and attract international capital. Opening property ownership to non-residents aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives to diversify the economy, grow the non-oil private sector and make Saudi markets easier to access for global investors. For more on the national strategy, see the official Vision 2030 portal: vision2030.gov.sa.

Practical guide for expatriates and non-resident buyers

If you are an expat or overseas investor considering property in Saudi Arabia, begin planning now. Below are practical steps and tips to prepare for the new requirements:

1. Create and activate an Absher account: Absher is the Ministry of Interior’s digital portal for identity services. Non-resident users will need to follow the REGA and Ministry of Interior guidance for creating the specific digital ID required for property transactions. Visit Absher: absher.sa.
2. Open a Saudi bank account: Contact major Saudi banks to understand their requirements for non-resident account opening. Many banks now offer streamlined processes for international clients, but documentation (passport, proof of address, power of attorney if needed) varies by institution.
3. Get a local mobile number: Purchase a prepaid or postpaid SIM from a licensed operator once you have an address or local contact. This number will be used for communications and account verification.
4. Engage local legal and real estate advisors: Use reputable local lawyers or licensed real estate consultants to verify property titles, assess restrictions (including any limits on usufruct terms) and complete due diligence before signing contracts.
5. Plan timelines carefully: With the law coming into force January 2026, allow sufficient time for digital ID activation, bank account setup and compliance checks prior to any purchase or lease agreement.

What to watch for and common questions

While many details will be set by the executive regulations and technical rules from REGA and partner agencies, expats should watch for:

• Exact activation process on Absher: The Ministry of Interior will publish procedures for non-resident digital ID activation.
• Documentation requirements: Banks and authorities will provide lists of acceptable documents for identity verification and account opening.
• Limits and permissions: The law includes conditions and restrictions on types of property, durations of usufruct rights, and compliance obligations; read executive regulations when they are published.

FAQs (quick)

Q: Can any foreigner buy property?
A: The law permits non-resident ownership but subject to conditions. Specific restrictions and permitted property types will be detailed in executive regulations.

Q: Do I need to be in Saudi to apply for the digital ID?
A: The exact process for non-residents will be set out by the Ministry of Interior and REGA; some digital onboarding may be possible remotely, but expect identity verification steps that could require presence or authorised representation.

Q: Where can I find official updates?
A: Watch official announcements from the Ministry of Interior, SDAIA, REGA and the Saudi Press Agency: spa.gov.sa. These will publish verified guidance and timelines.

Implications for the expatriate community

For expats, the reforms bring both opportunity and new compliance tasks. Non-resident ownership expands housing and investment choices — useful for families, diaspora investors, and companies seeking office or residential assets in Saudi Arabia. At the same time, official digital IDs, local banking and verified contact details ensure transactions meet security and regulatory standards.

Property professionals, landlord associations and employer HR teams should prepare to support staff who may wish to buy or lease under the new rules. Employers that help relocating staff should factor in the additional administrative steps and advise employees early.

Next steps and staying informed

Start by bookmarking the key official pages and checking for REGA’s published executive regulations (expected to clarify operational steps and timings). Useful official resources include the Ministry of Interior (moi.gov.sa), SDAIA (sdaia.gov.sa) and the national news agency (spa.gov.sa).

These reforms will be closely watched by the expat community. If you are planning a purchase or advising clients, begin preparation now so you meet the new digital ID, banking and communication requirements well before the law takes effect in January 2026.

Note: This article summarises official decisions and draft regulations announced by Saudi authorities. Always consult the published executive regulations and official portals for the most current legal and procedural requirements.