Unlocking opportunity in Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 programme continues to reshape the economic landscape, with reforms aimed at diversifying income sources, attracting foreign capital, and modernising key sectors. Among the most significant developments is the new real estate legislation, set to take effect in January 2026, which will—for the first time—allow non-Saudi nationals to acquire property in designated zones across the country.

This change marks a major departure from previous policy and is expected to unlock substantial inward investment. While the specific zones are yet to be confirmed by the General Real Estate Authority, initial indications suggest high-demand urban centres such as Riyadh and Jeddah will be prioritised. The implementing regulations, due in January, will clarify the process and eligibility criteria, but the direction of travel is clear: Saudi Arabia is opening its doors wider to global investors.

To help navigate this evolving landscape, Irwin Mitchell will be co-hosting a series of roundtable discussions in both Riyadh and Jeddah. These sessions will bring together key stakeholders to explore the implications of the new legislation and the broader opportunities for reciprocal investment.

The UK–Saudi relationship is also deepening. Recent announcements of over £360 million in joint investments across clean energy, financial services, and education reflect a shared commitment to innovation and sustainable growth. These developments align closely with our own international strategy and reinforce the importance of being on the ground, building relationships, and understanding the evolving regulatory environment.

Saudi Arabia’s reform agenda is ambitious, but the momentum is real. For investors and advisers alike, now is the time to engage—and we’re proud to be part of that conversation.