Buying Property in Saudi Arabia as an Iqama Holder — Complete Guide

Iqama Holders: Your Advantage

As a Saudi resident, you have several practical advantages over non-resident foreign buyers:

• Your Iqama number is accepted across all Saudi government systems (Ministry of Justice, REGA, Absher)
• You can use the Absher platform to handle much of the process digitally
• You are physically present, removing the need for a power of attorney for the notary step
• Banks may offer you mortgage financing (see mortgage section below)

What You Can Buy

Iqama holders can purchase:

• Apartments and villas in REGA-designated zones
• Off-plan properties from licensed developers
• Commercial units (subject to Iqama type and REGA approval)

You cannot purchase:

• Property outside designated zones
• Agricultural land
• Property in Mecca or Medina (if non-Muslim)
• Property near military/security zones

The Buying Process for Iqama Holders

Step 1 — Find a Property

Use platforms like Aqar.sa, Bayut.sa, or work with a licensed Saudi real estate agent (makhatit).

Step 2 — Verify the Title

Check the property’s title deed through the Najm system (Ministry of Justice property lookup). Confirm no liens or disputes.

Step 3 — Agree on Terms

Negotiate price and terms. A preliminary sale agreement (عقد اتفاقية) is often signed with a deposit.

Step 4 — Prepare Documentation

• Valid Iqama
• Passport
• Bank statements (if applying for a mortgage)
• Property title deed (from seller)
• REGA zone confirmation

Step 5 — Final Transfer at Notary

Attend the Ministry of Justice notary office (or use the electronic system if available). Both buyer and seller sign the transfer deed. Transfer is digitally registered.

Step 6 — Title Deed

You receive your title deed (صك الملكية) — a digital document registered under your Iqama/passport details.

Can Iqama Holders Get a Mortgage?

Yes — some Saudi banks offer mortgage products to Iqama holders, though the terms vary significantly:

• Not all banks will lend to non-Saudi Iqama holders
• Loan-to-value ratios are typically lower than for Saudi nationals (often 70% max)
• Interest rates and terms depend on your employer, salary, and Iqama type
• Al Rajhi Bank, Saudi National Bank, and Riyad Bank have historically offered products to expats — verify current offerings directly

If mortgage financing is not available to you, cash purchases are common among foreign buyers.

Tax Position for Iqama Holders

Same as all foreign buyers:

• 5% Real Estate Transaction Tax on purchase
• No annual property tax
• No capital gains tax (for individuals)
• No VAT on residential property purchases

See Also

• Non-resident buying guide →
• Costs and taxes →
• Step-by-step process →
• Law breakdown →