Your Weekly Round Up

YOUR WEEKLY ROUNDUP

In case you missed this weeks latest developments in the growth of Saudi Arabia we’ve compiled the best articles for you.

In Today’s Edition:

• Saudi Arabia’s New Ownership Rules to Boost Foreign Demand in Makkah

• Saudi Arabia Opens Real Estate Ownership to Non Saudis Under New Law 2026

• Marriott and Al Qimmah Sign Agreement to Add More Than 2,700 Rooms in Saudi Arabi

• Diryah Company Signs $827 Million Deal to Develop Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences

• Today’s Newsletter’s Sponsor

TRAVEL

✨Saudi Arabia’s New Ownership Rules to Boost Foreign Demand in Makkah

Saudi Arabia has introduced a transformative policy allowing non-Saudis to own property in Makkah, a move expected to trigger a massive surge in international real estate demand.

Key Takeaways:

• To capitalize on the new rules, Masar plans to execute 10 land reservation contracts in 2026 worth over SAR 1.9 billion.

• Upon completion, the Masar Destination will offer over 50,000 units, including 41,000 hotel/apartment rooms and 9,000 residential units specifically for sale.

• The government will specify "designated geographic zones" for foreign ownership within Makkah, with official announcements expected in the first quarter of 2026.

By opening Makkah’s property market to non-Saudi nationals, the Kingdom is unlocking a multi-billion dollar investment opportunity that was previously restricted. Read more

REAL ESTATE

✨Saudi Arabia Opens Real Estate Ownership to Non Saudis Under New Law 2026

Saudi Arabia has officially implemented a landmark law as of January 22, 2026, that allows non-Saudi individuals, companies, and organizations to own real estate across the Kingdom.

Key Takeaways:

• The law opens the market to residents (iqama holders), non-residents, and foreign companies.

• Makkah and Madinah remain protected; ownership in these cities is restricted to Muslim individuals and 100% Saudi-owned companies.

• The law isn't limited to just deeds; it allows for full ownership, long-term leaseholds, and usufruct rights (the right to use and benefit from a property).

The 2026 Real Estate Ownership Law marks a "seismic shift" in Saudi Arabia’s property market, transitioning from a system of restriction to one of global opportunity. Read more

HOSPITALITY

✨ Marriott and Al Qimmah Sign Agreement to Add More Than 2,700 Rooms in Saudi Arabi

Marriott International and Al Qimmah Hospitality (a subsidiary of BinDawood Investment) have signed an agreement to develop five new hotel projects across Saudi Arabia.

Key Takeaways:

• The agreement pushes Marriott’s Saudi portfolio to over 100 properties (combined open and in development).

• The portfolio spans luxury apartments (JW Marriott), midscale options (Four Points Flex), and extended-stay facilities (Element).

• This collaboration is a vital step in meeting the Kingdom's target of accommodating millions of additional visitors and diversifying the economy.

The partnership between Marriott and Al Qimmah Hospitality represents a significant acceleration of Saudi Arabia’s hospitality sector. Read more

HOSPITALITY

✨Diryah Company Signs $827 Million Deal to Develop Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences

Diriyah Company has finalized a massive $827 million (SAR 3.1 billion) joint development agreement with Midad Real Estate to bring the Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences to the historic "City of Earth," Diriyah.

Key Takeaways:

• This project supports the Kingdom’s goal of attracting 50 million annual visits to Diriyah by 2030.

• The investment (covering land and construction) is projected to contribute approximately $18.6 billion to Saudi Arabia’s GDP and create thousands of local jobs.

• The development will feature an ultra-luxury 159-room hotel alongside exclusive branded private residences, offering a blend of world-class service and historic Najdi architecture.

By partnering with Midad Real Estate for this nearly billion-dollar Four Seasons project, Diriyah Company is accelerating the realization of its "City of Earth" vision. Read more

This Newsletter Is Sponsored by Welcome Saudi

The No. 1 Travel Website To Discover The Best Hotels, Restaurants & Tourist Destinations in Saudi Arabia