Latest news with #UmmAl-Qura
India.com
3 days ago
- Business
- India.com
Saudi Arabia Opens Its Doors To Foreign Property Buyers – What You Can (And Can't) Buy Under The New Law
Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has rewritten the rulebook on who can own land within its borders. It is being seen as a bold move with big money on the line. For the first time, the Kingdom will allow foreigners, including individuals, corporations and diplomatic entities, to buy property across the country under new conditions published in the Umm Al-Qura gazette on July 25. Though the new legislation will take effect in 180 days, the implications are already rippling through real estate and investment circles. The biggest headline? Foreigners can now legally buy property in Saudi Arabia, but the twin holy cities of Makkah and Madinah remain mostly off-limits. Sacred to Muslims worldwide, the cities will continue to enforce restrictions that prevent most non-Muslims from owning real estate within their boundaries. New Era for Property Ownership This law marks a sharp turn from earlier rules, where foreign ownership was rare and tightly controlled. Now, These two cities will be able to own one residential property as long as it is outside restricted areas. It must also be for personal use only. On the other hand, foreign companies have been given much broader access. They can acquire property anywhere across the Kingdom to support operations, whether it is for offices or employee housing. Embassies and international organisations will also be allowed to buy real estate for official use, provided they secure the green light from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs. One clause drawing particular interest involves the type of ownership permitted. The law covers usufruct rights (the ability to use and benefit from property), leases and other legal interests in property. All of this is part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 plan, a transformation programme aimed at diversifying the economy and attracting foreign capital into sectors like tourism, finance and real estate. Religious Cities Remain Guarded There is no ambiguity about Makkah and Madinah. The new law continues to protect them from large-scale outside ownership. Only Muslims may own property there and only under clearly specified conditions. Regardless of status or investment power, non-Muslims remain excluded. For the rest of the Kingdom, foreign investors will have more leeway, but the zones open to ownership will be defined by the Saudi government. These areas will come with clear limits on how much can be owned and for how long. Registration Now Mandatory Foreigners looking to purchase land or buildings must register their holdings with Saudi Arabia's national real estate registry. Without this, ownership is not legally recognised. The law also sets a transfer fee of up to 5% for property transactions involving foreign buyers. And if anyone tries to play around with the rules, say, by submitting false documents or hiding their identity, the consequences will be steep. A fine of up to SAR 10 million (roughly $2.67 million) can be imposed. In serious cases, the government can force the sale of the property. After legal deductions, the money goes straight to the state. Oversight will come from a new committee under the Real Estate General Authority, which has the power to investigate and penalise violators. Property owners who feel wronged by a committee decision will have 60 days to file an appeal in Saudi Arabia's administrative courts. Existing Owners and GCC Citizens For those who already own property, there is good news. All foreign property rights acquired before this law remain valid and protected. Interestingly, the law also lifts a long-standing ban on Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) citizens from owning property in Makkah and Madinah. They will now be treated just like other foreigners, a move that simplifies legal distinctions and closes older loopholes. What's Coming Next? While the core law is out, the fine print is still in the works. The government plans to release executive regulations within six months to explain how the rules will be implemented and which regions will fall within the ownership zones. This next stage will be crucial for investors waiting on details before committing. Can any foreigner buy property anywhere in Saudi Arabia now? No. Foreigners can only buy in designated areas. Makkah and Madinah remain mostly restricted, especially to non-Muslims. What types of property rights are allowed? The law includes full ownership, lease rights and usufruct, the right to use property without owning it outright. What happens if a foreigner breaks the ownership rules? Violators can face fines up to SAR 10 million and the government can seize and sell the property, sending proceeds to the state. This law may seem like just another regulation, but in the Kingdom's wider push for modernisation and foreign investment, it is seen as a seismic shift. It is a message for global investors that Saudi Arabia is opening its gates but not all of them.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Time of India
Umrah 2025: How Saudi Arabia is making the pilgrim experience safer with smart bracelets and apps
New digital tools, safety measures, and stricter standards mark Saudi Arabia's people-first approach to Umrah 2025/ Representative Image TL;DR Saudi Arabia has launched new digital and safety tools to improve the Umrah experience in 2025. Major upgrades focus on elderly support, crowd control, and pilgrim services in Makkah and Madinah. The Ministry of Tourism is also cracking down on unsafe accommodations to protect visitors. With the new Umrah season starting in 2025, Saudi authorities are making clear that the focus is not just on numbers, but on the people behind them. The aim this year is simple: make the pilgrimage safer, easier, and more spiritually fulfilling. While millions are expected to visit the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, the Kingdom is working to remove the usual stress points, whether it's confusion at busy mosques, difficulty for elderly visitors, or problems with hotel bookings. Instead of big slogans or ambitious promises, this year's changes are grounded in real action. From helpful digital tools to safety gear for vulnerable groups, Saudi Arabia is pushing practical solutions. And with tighter inspections on tourist services, there's also a clear message: quality and safety matter more than ever. These new moves show how the Kingdom is managing modern challenges without losing sight of the spiritual heart of Umrah. The Promotion of "Rushd" app One of the main upgrades this year is digital, and very hands-on. The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has rolled out a campaign in Madinah to promote the "Rushd" app, designed specifically for pilgrims. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Brain tumor has left my son feeling miserable; please help! Donate For Health Donate Now Undo What the app offers: Electronic Quran and daily prayer times (based on Umm Al-Qura) Qibla direction via mobile A multilingual virtual reality guide to help users learn how to perform Umrah and Hajj An Islamic e-library and access to trusted religious reference sources The campaign is being run at key visitor areas around the Prophet's Mosque, including historic locations. It's not just about downloading an app, it's about helping people use it in a meaningful way while they're on their journey. Bracelets That Help, Not Just Track To support vulnerable pilgrims, like children, the elderly, and visually impaired visitors, the General Authority for the Care of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque has launched smart safety bracelets. Here's what they do: Store emergency contact information Allow for quick help if someone is lost or in distress Offer peace of mind for families and groups during prayer or movement in crowded areas This isn't about surveillance. It's about safety, especially in a setting where it's easy to get separated or overwhelmed. Fixing the Basics: Infrastructure, Training, and Tech A lot of what makes or breaks a pilgrim's experience is behind the scenes: how smooth the transport is, how well the crowd is managed, or how clean and accessible public areas are. To that end, 16 new initiatives have been rolled out in Madinah under the Pilgrim Experience Program. What's being improved: Road access and pathways near religious sites AI-powered crowd management tools On-ground staff training in visitor care Faster emergency response systems In total, 89 different projects across 23 government agencies are currently active, covering everything from security and tourism to health and logistics. According to officials, 95% of these projects are already completed or in final stages. Tougher Standards for Accommodation in Makkah Pilgrims shouldn't have to worry about where they're staying, especially in a city as sacred as Makkah. That's why the Ministry of Tourism has stepped up inspections and closed 25 non-compliant facilities just this July. The reasons included: Operating without a license Poor building maintenance Fire safety concerns This crackdown is part of the wider "Our Guests Come First" campaign, which also encourages pilgrims to report issues through the Unified Tourism Center (dial 930). Support That's Easy to Reach It's easy to feel overwhelmed in a huge place like the Prophet's Mosque, especially if you're a first-timer or don't speak Arabic. That's why two service centers within the mosque courtyards have played a key role in helping pilgrims feel supported. In 2024 alone, these centers: Assisted over 188,000 visitors Offered support in multiple languages Provided wheelchairs and mobility aids Gave out wristbands for children and elderly visitors These centers focus on what matters most, comfort, clarity, and calm during worship. FAQs 1. What is the 'Rushd' app and how do I get it? Rushd is a free mobile app launched by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs. It includes tools like Quran access, prayer times, and a 3D guide for Umrah and Hajj. It's available on most app stores and promoted at major sites in Madinah. 2. Are the safety bracelets required for all visitors? No. They are offered mainly to children, elderly pilgrims, and those with disabilities. You can request one through mosque authorities or service centers. 3. What do I do if my hotel in Makkah has issues? Contact the Unified Tourism Center by calling 930. The Ministry of Tourism encourages feedback and will follow up on any complaints related to safety or service quality.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Time of India
Saudi Arabia steps up for Umrah 2025: Focus on safety, simplicity, and support for pilgrims
New digital tools, safety measures, and stricter standards mark Saudi Arabia's people-first approach to Umrah 2025/ Representative Image TL;DR Saudi Arabia has launched new digital and safety tools to improve the Umrah experience in 2025. Major upgrades focus on elderly support, crowd control, and pilgrim services in Makkah and Madinah. The Ministry of Tourism is also cracking down on unsafe accommodations to protect visitors. With the new Umrah season starting in 2025, Saudi authorities are making clear that the focus is not just on numbers, but on the people behind them. The aim this year is simple: make the pilgrimage safer, easier, and more spiritually fulfilling. While millions are expected to visit the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, the Kingdom is working to remove the usual stress points, whether it's confusion at busy mosques, difficulty for elderly visitors, or problems with hotel bookings. Instead of big slogans or ambitious promises, this year's changes are grounded in real action. From helpful digital tools to safety gear for vulnerable groups, Saudi Arabia is pushing practical solutions. And with tighter inspections on tourist services, there's also a clear message: quality and safety matter more than ever. These new moves show how the Kingdom is managing modern challenges without losing sight of the spiritual heart of Umrah. The Promotion of "Rushd" app One of the main upgrades this year is digital, and very hands-on. The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has rolled out a campaign in Madinah to promote the "Rushd" app, designed specifically for pilgrims. What the app offers: Electronic Quran and daily prayer times (based on Umm Al-Qura) Qibla direction via mobile A multilingual virtual reality guide to help users learn how to perform Umrah and Hajj An Islamic e-library and access to trusted religious reference sources The campaign is being run at key visitor areas around the Prophet's Mosque, including historic locations. It's not just about downloading an app, it's about helping people use it in a meaningful way while they're on their journey. Bracelets That Help, Not Just Track To support vulnerable pilgrims, like children, the elderly, and visually impaired visitors, the General Authority for the Care of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque has launched smart safety bracelets. Here's what they do: Store emergency contact information Allow for quick help if someone is lost or in distress Offer peace of mind for families and groups during prayer or movement in crowded areas This isn't about surveillance. It's about safety, especially in a setting where it's easy to get separated or overwhelmed. Fixing the Basics: Infrastructure, Training, and Tech A lot of what makes or breaks a pilgrim's experience is behind the scenes: how smooth the transport is, how well the crowd is managed, or how clean and accessible public areas are. To that end, 16 new initiatives have been rolled out in Madinah under the Pilgrim Experience Program. What's being improved: Road access and pathways near religious sites AI-powered crowd management tools On-ground staff training in visitor care Faster emergency response systems In total, 89 different projects across 23 government agencies are currently active, covering everything from security and tourism to health and logistics. According to officials, 95% of these projects are already completed or in final stages. Tougher Standards for Accommodation in Makkah Pilgrims shouldn't have to worry about where they're staying, especially in a city as sacred as Makkah. That's why the Ministry of Tourism has stepped up inspections and closed 25 non-compliant facilities just this July. The reasons included: Operating without a license Poor building maintenance Fire safety concerns This crackdown is part of the wider "Our Guests Come First" campaign, which also encourages pilgrims to report issues through the Unified Tourism Center (dial 930). Support That's Easy to Reach It's easy to feel overwhelmed in a huge place like the Prophet's Mosque, especially if you're a first-timer or don't speak Arabic. That's why two service centers within the mosque courtyards have played a key role in helping pilgrims feel supported. In 2024 alone, these centers: Assisted over 188,000 visitors Offered support in multiple languages Provided wheelchairs and mobility aids Gave out wristbands for children and elderly visitors These centers focus on what matters most, comfort, clarity, and calm during worship. FAQs 1. What is the 'Rushd' app and how do I get it? Rushd is a free mobile app launched by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs. It includes tools like Quran access, prayer times, and a 3D guide for Umrah and Hajj. It's available on most app stores and promoted at major sites in Madinah. 2. Are the safety bracelets required for all visitors? No. They are offered mainly to children, elderly pilgrims, and those with disabilities. You can request one through mosque authorities or service centers. 3. What do I do if my hotel in Makkah has issues? Contact the Unified Tourism Center by calling 930. The Ministry of Tourism encourages feedback and will follow up on any complaints related to safety or service quality.
Arabian Post
5 days ago
- Business
- Arabian Post
Saudi Arabia Unveils New Real Estate Ownership Law for Foreigners
Saudi Arabia has revealed the complete details of a groundbreaking law that regulates real estate ownership by non-Saudis, following its approval by the Cabinet earlier this month. The law, which will be enacted 180 days from its publication, signals a significant shift in the Kingdom's stance towards foreign ownership of property, opening up new opportunities for individuals, companies, and non-profit entities abroad. The law, published in the official gazette Umm Al-Qura, outlines a comprehensive framework allowing non-Saudis to acquire property or establish real rights over land in the country. The key element of the reform is its establishment of specific geographic zones where foreign ownership is permitted, a move expected to attract considerable international investment. The Cabinet will play a pivotal role in defining the boundaries of these designated areas, which are likely to be concentrated in key urban and economic hubs such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and the Eastern Province. While the precise locations are yet to be announced, officials indicate that the decision will be based on strategic economic priorities, aiming to stimulate growth and diversification in critical sectors like tourism, hospitality, and logistics. ADVERTISEMENT One of the core principles of the new law is its flexibility. Unlike previous regulations, which were highly restrictive, the law grants non-Saudis the opportunity to own real estate in various forms, including commercial and residential properties. The legislation outlines conditions under which foreign entities can acquire land, offering them the chance to leverage the Kingdom's thriving economy and vibrant business environment. This legal shift is expected to have a transformative impact on Saudi Arabia's real estate market. Analysts predict an influx of foreign capital as investors look to take advantage of the Kingdom's growing appeal as a regional hub. The move is also seen as a step towards diversifying the economy, in line with the objectives set out in Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which aims to reduce the Kingdom's dependence on oil revenues and foster sustainable growth through non-oil sectors. Experts note that while the law represents a major departure from previous policies, it does not open up the entire country to foreign ownership. Instead, the policy is focused on ensuring that foreign property holdings contribute meaningfully to the national economy. The Cabinet will likely impose further regulations to balance the interests of local stakeholders with the benefits of foreign investment. The move could foster job creation, provide a boost to construction and development projects, and potentially increase the demand for high-quality infrastructure in designated zones. The new law also highlights Saudi Arabia's efforts to modernise its regulatory environment, providing clarity for international investors who have long been wary of the Kingdom's real estate market due to its complex legal framework. While non-Saudis have previously been able to invest in real estate through specific channels like joint ventures and special economic zones, this new legislation offers a more straightforward path for foreign ownership, which could position Saudi Arabia as a competitive player in the global real estate market. For real estate developers and global companies, this development could mean greater opportunities to tap into a burgeoning market. Large-scale projects, such as the NEOM city and Red Sea tourism initiatives, could see increased international interest as foreign ownership regulations become more transparent and accessible. ADVERTISEMENT However, there are still questions about the long-term implications of these changes. While the law offers new avenues for foreign investment, there are concerns about the potential impact on local property prices and the availability of affordable housing for Saudi citizens. Critics argue that an influx of foreign capital might inflate property values, making it harder for Saudis to purchase homes. The government is expected to address these concerns through policies that safeguard the interests of the local population, ensuring that housing remains affordable for citizens. The government's strategy also includes efforts to ensure that foreign investments contribute to the broader goals of economic diversification. By allowing foreign ownership in select zones, the Kingdom hopes to align property investments with its broader economic objectives, particularly in sectors like tourism, entertainment, and high-tech industries. For non-Saudis looking to invest, the new law provides a clearer roadmap for property ownership. Investors will need to navigate a system that offers greater transparency and less bureaucratic red tape than previous regulations. While specific details on the process of acquiring property remain to be fully clarified, the law marks a significant shift toward openness, making it more appealing to foreign capital.
Gulf Insider
6 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Saudi Arabia Publishes New Law Allowing Foreigners To Own Property
Saudi Arabia has officially published the full details of its new law regulating real estate ownership by non-Saudis, following Cabinet approval earlier this month. The comprehensive law, released in the official gazette Umm Al-Qura on Friday, will take effect 180 days from publication and marks a major overhaul in the Kingdom's approach to foreign ownership of property. The new system grants non-Saudis — including individuals, companies, and non-profit entities — the right to own property or obtain other real rights over real estate within designated geographic zones to be determined by the Cabinet. These rights include usufruct (beneficial use), leaseholds, and other real estate interests, but will be subject to a range of controls and restrictions based on location, property type, and usage. The law preserves all real estate rights that were legally established for non-Saudis prior to the new regulation taking effect. However, it clearly states that ownership remains prohibited in certain locations and regions, notably in Makkah and Madinah, except under conditions for individual Muslim owners. A key provision in the law requires the Council of Ministers — upon a proposal by the Real Estate General Authority and with the approval of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs — to define the allowable zones for foreign ownership and set upper limits on ownership percentages and durations for usufruct rights. Foreign individuals legally residing in Saudi Arabia may own one residential property outside restricted areas for personal housing purposes. This does not apply to Makkah and Madinah. The regulation also includes provisions for corporate ownership. Non-listed companies with foreign shareholders, as well as investment funds and licensed special-purpose entities, will be permitted to acquire real estate throughout the Kingdom, including in Makkah and Madinah, provided the ownership supports operational needs or employee housing. Listed companies and investment vehicles may also acquire property in line with Saudi financial market regulations. Diplomatic missions and international organizations can also own premises for official use and residence of their representatives, subject to Foreign Ministry approval and reciprocity conditions. To ensure compliance, non-Saudi entities must register with the competent authority before acquiring property. Ownership or real rights become valid only after formal registration in the national real estate registry. The law introduces a real estate transfer fee of up to 5% for transactions involving non-Saudis, and outlines a penalty framework for violations. Sanctions include fines up to SR10 million and, in severe cases such as falsified information, the forced sale of the property with proceeds remitted to the state after deductions. A dedicated committee under the Real Estate General Authority will be formed to investigate violations and impose penalties. Decisions of this committee can be appealed to the administrative courts within 60 days. Additionally, the law repeals a prior rule that prohibited GCC citizens from owning property in Makkah and Madinah, effectively standardizing rules for all non-Saudi entities under a single framework. The executive regulations, which will detail implementation mechanisms and specify geographic boundaries and conditions, are expected to be issued within six months. The new law replaces the previous foreign property ownership legislation issued under Royal Decree No. M/15 in 2000.
