Updated September 2026
How zones work
The law allows non-Saudis to own property only within geographic zones approved by the Council of Ministers. For each zone, REGA’s Saudi Properties platform publishes an interactive map showing the permitted ownership percentages, the types of right that can be acquired, and any time limits on those rights.
Zones exist in Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah. In Makkah and Madinah they are open only to Muslims.
Areas named in published zone lists
Published lists of the Holy City zones have included the following. Treat this as a starting point, not a legal list: zones are defined by boundaries on the official map, and they can be updated.
| Makkah | Madinah |
|---|---|
| Abraj Al-Bait (Makkah Clock Towers) | Rua Al Madinah |
| Jabal Omar | Darat Al-Hijrah |
| Ajyad | Madinah Downtown |
| Al-Manar | Knowledge Economic City |
| King Salman Gate | Mishraf |
| Masar Destination | Al-Ghurra |
| Thakher Makkah | Diyar Al-Maqar |
| Al-Tilal Village | Al-Mahwa |
| Sumou Suburb | Madinah Zones 1 and 2 |
| Makkah Zones 1 and 2 |
How to check a specific property
- Get the exact location of the unit and the plot, not just the project name. Some projects straddle zone boundaries.
- Check it on the official Saudi Properties zones map.
- Note the type of right (ownership or usufruct), any duration, and any cap on non-Saudi ownership in that zone.
- Confirm the developer’s licence to sell, especially for off-plan units.
- Get the check in writing before you pay a deposit.
Being close to the Haram does not make a property eligible. Only the official map decides. If a seller cannot show you the zone status, do not pay.