Saudi Arabia Updates Rules for Foreign Companies to Own Property Without Economic Activities

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Investment has unveiled new guidelines for non-resident foreign companies aiming to own property without economic activities. Part of the 2026 Investor Guide, these regulations require submission of a commercial registration certificate and articles of incorporation from their home country, both translated and authenticated by the Saudi Embassy.

Applicants must also provide an authorization document appointing a company representative, similarly processed. The ministry emphasizes companies must designate a natural person as authorized through a certified power of attorney for registration procedures.

Non-resident firms lacking Saudi-recognized identification can obtain digital identity via diplomatic missions abroad. Annual updates require confirmation of no changes in ownership or management since initial registration.

The Investor Guide 2026 includes a dedicated chapter on non-Saudi company property registration, reflecting efforts to regulate foreign real estate investment and align with the new Investment Law. Procedures for property acquisition, authorized representation appointment, property management obligations, bank account openings, and updating information are detailed. This update marks one of the most significant changes in the guide, addressing previously unaddressed aspects of foreign company property ownership.