What's happening now.
Regulation is changing fast. Here you can follow property developments via REGA and company formation via MISA and the Ministry of Commerce. Click through to the official source for the full announcement.
Disposal fee for non-Saudis set at 2 percent
The implementing regulations set the separate fee for non-Saudis at 2% in Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah, on top of the regular 5% transfer tax (RETT). New too: a non-resident buyer must first have an approved digital identity, a Saudi bank account in their own name and a linked Saudi mobile number. All payments run through the SAMA-integrated system.
Source · REGA / Implementing regulationsCabinet approves zones for foreign ownership in the holy cities
The implementing regulations and geographic zones have been approved, including designated areas in Makkah and Madinah for Muslims and Saudi companies. The Saudi Properties portal is live.
Source · REGA / Council of MinistersNew law on real estate ownership by non-Saudis takes effect
Foreigners may own real estate broadly within designated zones for the first time. The law replaces the old, restrictive framework from 2000 and shifts to a transparent zone system.
Source · REGABrokerage regulations clarify the commission structure
The standard commission remains 2.5% of transaction value. Only licensed brokers (FAL licence via REGA) may act as intermediaries. Breaches can lead to substantial fines.
Source · REGA Brokerage LawFour Special Economic Zones now operational
Since 16 April 2026 four Saudi Special Economic Zones are fully operational: King Abdullah Economic City, Ras Al-Khair, Jazan and Cloud Computing. Companies within these zones benefit from 5% corporate income tax (instead of 20%) for up to 20 years, 0% withholding tax on profit repatriation and customs duty exemptions. Access to the benefits does require genuine, value-adding activity within the zone.
Source · ECZA / MISAMISA licence fees remain suspended (not abolished)
Collection of MISA licence fees remains suspended as part of an investor facilitation package. Note: this is a suspension with an undertaking to pay, not a permanent abolition. Status under review.
Source · Ministry of InvestmentSaudi Business Center bundles registration into one invoice
Articles, publication, Commercial Registration and the first chamber year have been combined into one integrated invoice of roughly SAR 1,775, simplifying the process for foreign investors.
Source · Saudi Business CenterForeign investor-owner counts towards Saudization
Since April 2024 a foreign owner who registers as general manager counts as a Saudi national for Nitaqat. For small companies this lowers staffing obligations.
Source · Ministry of Human ResourcesThe updates above are compiled manually based on official announcements. For the very latest and complete coverage, the buttons above link directly to the news pages of REGA and MISA.
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