Saudi Vision 2030: Real Estate Opportunities for Global Investors

Saudi Arabia is in the middle of a transformation. Vision 2030: the Kingdom’s bold plan to diversify beyond oil – is opening the doors to real estate investors for the first time. And not just big-ticket buyers.

Thanks to real policy shifts and fund structures, investors can now get started from as little as £100 or SAR 500. Learn more on the app.

What was once a market limited to insiders is now a regulated, accessible, and Shariah-compliant investment destination.

The housing boom

Saudi’s real estate growth is more than just headlines. Home ownership has surged to 65.4% as of end-2024 with a target of 70% by 2030. This kind of demand is great for citizens, but it creates consistent opportunities for investors.

A big driver? Policy changes. Landowners in Riyadh now face fees of up to 10% a year for leaving land empty, this pushes development forward and creates a pipeline of new housing.

Opening up to foreign investment

Foreign investors now have access like never before. The Kingdom has loosened restrictions on shareholding in companies with real estate in Mecca and Medina – a game-changer given the steady demand driven by millions of religious pilgrims.

Even more significant: phased plans are underway to allow foreigners to directly own property in designated zones. Add to that the ability to hold up to 49% of listed real estate companies, and you have multiple entry points into a market with long-term upside.

Where are the opportunities?

Riyadh

The capital is a hotspot, serving as the centerpiece for the 2034 Football World Cup. Anti-speculation policies, government infrastructure spending, and a wave of corporate relocations are driving demand across mid-income housing, rentals, and logistics.

Mecca & Medina

While direct ownership isn’t yet an option, new regulations let foreign investors buy shares in companies with assets in the holy cities, offering exposure to one of the most consistent rental markets in the world.

Red Sea & mountain resorts

Tourism is key to Vision 2030. These luxury development zones offer capital growth potential, but come with higher execution risk. Stick to projects with clear timelines and experienced backers.

Jeddah

This commercial hub is undergoing a transformation of its own. New infrastructure and rising demand are unlocking potential in mid-to-high-end residential and hospitality sectors.

Building a smart allocation

A strong Saudi real estate portfolio should balance steady income with capital growth – and always prioritise liquidity.

• For income & stability: Consider rental-focused funds and listed real estate companies offering consistent dividends.
• For growth: Look to well-backed tourism projects or regeneration zones like Jeddah.
• For flexibility: Stick with platforms and funds that offer redemption windows or public listings. Avoid capital lockups with unclear exits.

Your pre-investment checklist

• Regulatory access: Confirm the area is open to foreign investors, not all zones are.
• Developer credibility: Look at completed projects, not just promises.
• Market demand: Verify real demand, not just projections.
• Exit strategy: Know your way out before you go in.

Start in Saudi with just £100

You don’t need deep pockets or local connections to enter the Saudi market. Stake offers access to professionally managed, Shariah-compliant real estate funds from just £100 or SAR 500.

With built-in diversification, income potential, and bi-annual redemption windows, it’s a way to get exposure to Saudi’s transformation.

Learn more about our funds in Saudi:

1. Mulkia Backyard
2. Al Fardan Residence
3. Inspire Boulevard
4. Check out of latest US fund on the app

Check the app to see our available funds!

All Investments carry risks. Stake Funds is regulated by the CMA as a Fund Distributor in KSA.