Your Weekly Round Up

Saudi Arabia’s leading low-cost carrier, flynas, has signed a landmark joint venture agreement with the Syrian General Authority of Civil Aviation and Air Transport to establish flynas Syria.

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 and Syria Sign Agreement to Launch Flynas Syria

  • 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

  • Today’s Newsletter’s Sponsor

TRAVEL

Saudi Arabia and Syria Sign Agreement to Launch Flynas Syria

Saudi Arabia’s leading low-cost carrier, flynas, has signed a landmark joint venture agreement with the Syrian General Authority of Civil Aviation and Air Transport to establish flynas Syria.

Key Takeaways:

  • Flynas Syria aims to restore and expand air connectivity, linking major Syrian cities to key destinations across the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.

  • The deal is part of a massive Saudi-Syrian investment package exceeding SR 40 billion (approx. $10.6 billion).

  • Flynas was the first Saudi carrier to resume direct flights to Damascus in June 2025. This new venture solidifies its commitment to making Syria a vital regional air travel hub.

The launch of flynas Syria represents a "qualitative leap" in regional aviation and

a clear signal of Saudi Arabia’s strategic role in Syria’s post-war reconstruction. Read more

REAL ESTATE

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 groundbreaking law as of January 22, 2026, allowing non-Saudi individuals, companies, and organizations to own real estate across the Kingdom.

Key Takeaways:

  • Initial designated zones for foreign ownership focus on high-demand urban markets like Riyadh and Jeddah.

  • The law permits multiple forms of property rights, including full ownership, long-term leaseholds, and usufruct rights.

  • Residents: Can apply directly via the platform with automatic iqama verification.

The 2026 Real Estate Ownership Law marks a "turning point" for the Kingdom, shifting from a restrictive environment to a regulated, open-access market for international investors. 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 officially signed an agreement to develop five new hotel projects in Saudi Arabia.

Key Takeaways:

  • An 800-room property located near Masjid Al Nabawi.

  • A 136-unit property targeting both short- and long-term stays with in-room kitchens and spa-inspired bathrooms.

  • A large-scale project with 1,030 rooms, situated close to Masjid Al Haram to serve the high volume of pilgrims.

This agreement reinforces Marriott's long-standing presence in Saudi Arabia, where it recently surpassed the milestone of 100 open and pipeline properties. 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

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