Complete guide for British Muslims buying property in Saudi Arabia (2026)

Saudi Arabia has opened property ownership in Makkah and Madinah to Muslims worldwide for the first time. Here is exactly how it works for a buyer based in the UK, under the law in force since January 2026.

Who is eligible?

Within the Holy Cities, ownership by individuals is reserved for Muslims, whether resident in the Kingdom or living abroad. Non-Muslims cannot own in Makkah or Madinah even inside the designated zones. Foreign companies incorporated outside Saudi Arabia are also excluded from the two cities.

Where can you buy?

Only inside the zones approved by the Council of Ministers. The official Saudi Properties portal lists 12 zones in Makkah, including Rou’a Al Haram Al Makki (the King Salman Gate project), Masar, Thakher Makkah, Jabal Omar, Ajyad Tower and Makkah Towers, and 10 in Madinah, including Rua Al Madinah, Downtown Madinah, Dar Al Hijrah, Knowledge Economic City and Mishraf. The portal is the definitive, current list.

How do you apply?

Through the Saudi Properties portal, REGA’s official platform, and the single channel for non-Saudi ownership. The journey covers eligibility verification, application, approval tracking and access to the designated opportunities, and can be completed from outside the Kingdom.

What does it cost?

On top of the purchase price, allow for the 5% Real Estate Transaction Tax (RETT) plus an additional transfer fee of up to 5% on non-Saudi transactions, combined government charges of up to roughly 10%. Add independent legal fees on both sides. Who bears which fee is negotiable in the contract.

The practical steps

1. Confirm your eligibility.
2. Register on the Saudi Properties portal.
3. Submit and track your ownership application.
4. Choose a property inside a designated zone.
5. Budget the full cost, including RETT and the non-Saudi fee.
6. Reserve and contract.
7. Complete registration of your title.