Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Saudi Arabia Property Pack
Yes, the analysis of Riyadh's property market is included in our pack
Riyadh's property market in early 2026 is one of the most dynamic in the Gulf region, with prices rising about 8% over the past year and new foreign ownership rules now officially in effect.
Whether you have $100,000 or $500,000 to spend, this guide breaks down exactly what you can realistically buy in the Saudi capital today, including specific neighborhoods, property types, and actual price ranges.
We constantly update this blog post as new data becomes available, so what you read here reflects the current housing prices in Riyadh as of January 2026.
And if you're planning to buy a property in this place, you may want to download our pack covering the real estate market in Riyadh.
What can I realistically buy with $100k in Riyadh right now?
Are there any decent properties for $100k in Riyadh, or is it all scams?
Yes, you can find decent apartments in Riyadh for around $100,000 (about SAR 375,000), but you will be shopping in the "small apartment in outer districts" category rather than the glossy new builds you see advertised online.
The neighborhoods in Riyadh that give you the best value and most legitimate options for a $100,000 budget include Ar Rimal in the east, Al Shifa and Al Aziziyah in the south, and Al Janadriyah in the northeast, where transaction activity is high and prices per square meter run between SAR 3,200 and SAR 5,500.
As for buying in popular or upscale areas of Riyadh like Al Malqa, Hittin, or the Diplomatic Quarter for $100,000, it is generally not possible unless you are willing to accept a very small, old, or compromised unit, because prices in those northern districts typically start at SAR 9,000 to SAR 16,000 per square meter.
What property types can I afford for $100k in Riyadh (studio, land, old house)?
For $100,000 (SAR 375,000) in Riyadh, the most realistic property types available are small apartments ranging from 55 to 80 square meters, which means you are looking at studios or one-bedroom units in outer districts like Ar Rimal, Namar, or Al Shifa.
At this budget in Riyadh, you should expect properties that need some work, typically light refreshes like paint and AC servicing, though sometimes kitchen or bathroom updates are necessary, so budget an extra SAR 20,000 to SAR 80,000 for renovation depending on the condition.
The property type at the $100,000 level in Riyadh that tends to offer the best long-term value is a clean-title apartment in a high-transaction district like Ar Rimal, because these areas have strong buyer demand and tend to resell faster than isolated or unusual properties.
What's a realistic budget to get a comfortable property in Riyadh as of 2026?
As of early 2026, the realistic minimum budget to get a comfortable property in Riyadh is around SAR 750,000 to SAR 850,000, which translates to roughly $200,000 to $225,000 or about €185,000 to €210,000.
Most buyers looking for a comfortable standard in Riyadh typically need to budget between SAR 750,000 and SAR 1,125,000 ($200,000 to $300,000 or €185,000 to €275,000) to find a property that does not feel like a daily compromise.
In Riyadh specifically, "comfortable" generally means a clean building with proper parking, a 2-bedroom apartment of at least 100 square meters, decent finishes, and a location that does not require a 60-minute commute to reach work or major amenities.
The required budget can vary dramatically depending on the neighborhood in Riyadh, with southern districts like Al Shifa offering entry points around SAR 550,000 while mid-north areas like Al Wadi or Qurtubah push closer to SAR 900,000 for similar comfort levels.
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What can I get with a $200k budget in Riyadh as of 2026?
What "normal" homes become available at $200k in Riyadh as of 2026?
As of early 2026, a $200,000 budget (about SAR 750,000) in Riyadh gets you into the "normal apartment" category, meaning a proper 2-bedroom unit in a decent building or a small 3-bedroom in value districts or older buildings.
For SAR 750,000 in Riyadh, you can typically expect a property size of 100 to 150 square meters (roughly 1,075 to 1,615 square feet), depending on whether you choose a newer building in an outer district or an older building in a more central location.
By the way, we have much more granular data about housing prices in our property pack about Riyadh.
What places are the smartest $200k buys in Riyadh as of 2026?
As of early 2026, the smartest neighborhoods to buy at the $200,000 level (SAR 750,000) in Riyadh include Ar Rimal, Al Munsiyah, Qurtubah, Al Hamra, and Al Rawdah, where you get both livability and strong transaction activity.
What makes these areas smarter buys than other $200,000 options in Riyadh is that they combine reasonable commute times to major employment hubs with high buyer demand, meaning your property will be easier to rent out or resell when needed.
The main growth factor driving value in these smart-buy areas of Riyadh is infrastructure development, particularly the Riyadh Metro system, which has already pushed prices up significantly in well-connected districts like Al Taawun (up 32% recently) and continues to lift values in adjacent neighborhoods.
We have made this infographic to give you a quick and clear snapshot of the property market in Saudi Arabia. It highlights key facts like rental prices, yields, and property costs both in city centers and outside, so you can easily compare opportunities. We’ve done some research and also included useful insights about the country’s economy, like GDP, population, and interest rates, to help you understand the bigger picture.
What can I buy with $300k in Riyadh in 2026?
What quality upgrade do I get at $300k in Riyadh in 2026?
As of early 2026, moving from $200,000 to $300,000 (SAR 750,000 to SAR 1,125,000) in Riyadh typically upgrades you from a basic apartment to a newer building with better maintenance, proper parking facilities, modern lobbies, and more choice in northern and inner-north districts.
Yes, $300,000 can definitely buy you a property in a newer building in Riyadh right now, especially in the east and northeast growth belt including Qurtubah, Al Munsiyah, and Al Rimal, and sometimes in mid-north pockets like Al Yasmin or Al Narjis for smaller units.
At this budget in Riyadh, specific features that become available include central air conditioning systems, covered parking, 24-hour security, higher-quality kitchen and bathroom finishes, and layouts that feel spacious rather than cramped.
Can $300k buy a 2-bedroom in Riyadh in 2026 in good areas?
As of early 2026, yes, $300,000 (SAR 1,125,000) commonly buys a 2-bedroom apartment in good areas of Riyadh, making this a meaningful budget for anyone looking for a practical family-sized unit in a desirable location.
Specific good areas in Riyadh where you can find 2-bedroom options at this budget include Al Rabie, Al Wadi, Al Muruj, and sometimes Al Nakhil or Al Aqiq if you accept smaller sizes or slightly older buildings.
A $300,000 2-bedroom apartment in Riyadh typically offers 100 to 140 square meters (1,075 to 1,500 square feet), which is enough space for a comfortable living area, two proper bedrooms, and often a maid's room or storage space.
Which places become "accessible" at $300k in Riyadh as of 2026?
At the $300,000 price point (SAR 1,125,000) in Riyadh, neighborhoods that become accessible to buyers include mid-north districts like Al Sulaymaniyah and Al Olaya for small or older units, as well as more consistent options throughout the inner-north growth corridor.
What makes these newly accessible areas desirable compared to lower-budget areas in Riyadh is their proximity to employment centers, established retail and dining options, higher-quality schools, and the prestige that comes with a north Riyadh address.
At $300,000 in these newly accessible Riyadh neighborhoods, buyers can typically expect a well-maintained 2-bedroom apartment in a mid-rise building with underground parking, or occasionally a smaller unit in a premium tower.
By the way, we've written a blog article detailing what are the current best areas to invest in property in Riyadh.
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What does a $500k budget unlock in Riyadh in 2026?
What's the typical size and location for $500k in Riyadh in 2026?
As of early 2026, a $500,000 budget (SAR 1,875,000) in Riyadh typically gets you 190 to 310 square meters (2,050 to 3,340 square feet) depending on location, with options ranging from large apartments in prime north districts to smaller villas in more peripheral areas.
Yes, $500,000 can sometimes buy a family home with outdoor space in Riyadh, particularly a duplex, townhouse-style unit, or smaller villa in more peripheral districts, though in prime northern areas this budget more commonly buys a premium apartment rather than a standalone home with a garden.
At the $500,000 level in Riyadh, the typical configuration is a large 3-bedroom apartment with 2 to 3 bathrooms, or a high-quality 2-bedroom in a better location with premium finishes and building amenities.
Finally, please note that we cover all the housing price data in Riyadh here.
Which "premium" neighborhoods open up at $500k in Riyadh in 2026?
At the $500,000 price point (SAR 1,875,000) in Riyadh, premium neighborhoods that open up to buyers include Hittin, Al Malqa, Al Yasmin, Al Narjis, Al Nakhil, Al Aqiq, and Al Mohammadiyah, which represent the most desirable residential addresses in the Saudi capital.
What makes these neighborhoods considered premium in Riyadh is their combination of wide streets, modern infrastructure, proximity to high-end retail like Kingdom Centre and Riyadh Park, top international schools, quality healthcare facilities, and the prestige associated with north Riyadh living.
For $500,000 in these premium Riyadh neighborhoods, buyers can realistically expect a well-finished 2 to 3-bedroom apartment in a quality building with full amenities, or occasionally a smaller penthouse or duplex unit in a mid-tier tower within these areas.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Saudi Arabia versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you’re planning to invest there.
What counts as "luxury" in Riyadh in 2026?
At what amount does "luxury" start in Riyadh right now?
In Riyadh, "luxury" in practical buyer terms generally starts at around SAR 12,000 per square meter for apartments in top buildings and locations, which means a luxury apartment typically costs at least SAR 2,500,000 ($665,000 or about €615,000) and luxury villas usually start at SAR 3,000,000 ($800,000 or €740,000) and go much higher.
The features that define entry-level luxury real estate in Riyadh include concierge services, high-end European kitchen appliances, marble or engineered stone finishes, smart home systems, private gym and pool facilities, and underground parking with direct elevator access to your unit.
Compared to other similar markets like Dubai or Abu Dhabi, Riyadh's luxury threshold is currently lower in absolute terms, though the gap is narrowing rapidly as the Saudi capital attracts more international wealth and corporate headquarters relocating under Vision 2030.
For mid-tier luxury in Riyadh, expect to pay SAR 4,000,000 to SAR 8,000,000 ($1.1 million to $2.1 million or €1.0 million to €1.9 million), while top-tier luxury properties like branded residences or exceptional villas in the Diplomatic Quarter can range from SAR 10,000,000 to SAR 30,000,000 or more ($2.7 million to $8 million or €2.5 million to €7.4 million).
Which areas are truly high-end in Riyadh right now?
The truly high-end neighborhoods in Riyadh right now include the Diplomatic Quarter, Hittin, Al Malqa, Al Mohammadiyah, and the emerging Diriyah development area adjacent to the At-Turaif UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What makes these areas considered truly high-end in Riyadh is their combination of exclusive gated communities, embassies and international organizations as neighbors, proximity to royal palaces and government centers, exceptional landscaping, and the presence of branded residences and architectural landmark buildings.
The typical buyer profile for these high-end Riyadh neighborhoods includes senior executives of multinational companies relocating their regional headquarters to Saudi Arabia, wealthy Saudi families upgrading from older properties, and foreign investors using the new 2026 ownership framework to establish a foothold in the Kingdom's premium market.
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How much does it really cost to buy, beyond the price, in Riyadh in 2026?
What are the total closing costs in Riyadh in 2026 as a percentage?
As of early 2026, total closing costs when buying property in Riyadh typically run between 7% and 10% of the purchase price, which you should factor into your budget on top of the property's listed value.
The realistic low-to-high percentage range that covers most standard transactions in Riyadh is 7% for straightforward deals with minimal legal complexity and up to 10% when you include comprehensive legal review, translation services, and potential agent negotiations.
The specific fee categories that make up this total in Riyadh include the 5% Real Estate Transaction Tax (RETT) which is the single biggest cost, broker commissions of around 2% to 2.5%, and legal or administrative fees for document verification and registration.
To avoid hidden costs and bad surprises, you can check our our pack covering the property buying process in Riyadh.
How much are notary, registration, and legal fees in Riyadh in 2026?
As of early 2026, notary, registration, and legal fees in Riyadh typically cost between SAR 5,000 and SAR 15,000 ($1,350 to $4,000 or €1,250 to €3,700), depending on the complexity of your transaction and whether you hire a lawyer for comprehensive due diligence.
These fees typically represent less than 1% of the property price in Riyadh, making them a relatively small portion of your total closing costs compared to the 5% RETT tax.
Of the three fee types in Riyadh, legal fees are usually the most expensive because the registration and notarial system is heavily digitized through official government platforms like Najiz, while proper legal review requires professional time to verify titles, check for encumbrances, and ensure the property is in a zone where foreign ownership is permitted.
What annual property taxes should I expect in Riyadh in 2026?
As of early 2026, there is no traditional US-style annual property tax for residential homeowners in Riyadh, meaning your ongoing government tax burden for a typical built apartment or villa is essentially zero after purchase.
The main recurring government levy in Riyadh is the White Land Tax, which applies at about 2.5% of assessed value but targets undeveloped urban land rather than completed residential properties, so most apartment or villa owners are not affected.
Your more predictable annual costs in Riyadh come from service charges or HOA-type fees if you buy in a managed development or compound, which can range from SAR 5,000 to SAR 30,000 per year ($1,350 to $8,000 or €1,250 to €7,400) depending on the building's amenities and location.
There are no specific exemptions or reductions for foreign buyers in Riyadh because the tax system does not distinguish between Saudi and non-Saudi owners for residential property, though the White Land Tax framework does have specific rules about which land categories are subject to the levy.
You can find the list of all property taxes, costs and fees when buying in Riyadh here.
Is mortgage a viable option for foreigners in Riyadh right now?
Mortgages for foreigners in Riyadh are possible but not guaranteed, with most "foreigner mortgages" actually being expatriate resident mortgages for people who hold an iqama (residency permit) and have stable local income rather than fly-in investors without Saudi ties.
Foreign borrowers in Riyadh most commonly see loan-to-value ratios between 70% and 85%, meaning you should expect to put down at least 15% to 30% of the property price as a deposit, with interest rates for qualified expatriate residents typically falling between 5.8% and 7.8% as of early 2026.
To qualify for a mortgage in Riyadh as a foreigner, banks typically require residency status, salary transfer to the lending bank so they can verify and control your income, a minimum employment tenure in Saudi Arabia, and standard documentation including employment contracts, bank statements, and proof of the property's clear title status.
You can also read our complete guide on how to buy and rent out in Riyadh.
We made this infographic to show you how property prices in Saudi Arabia compare to other big cities across the region. It breaks down the average price per square meter in city centers, so you can see how cities stack up. It’s an easy way to spot where you might get the best value for your money. We hope you like it.
What should I predict for resale and growth in Riyadh in 2026?
What property types resell fastest in Riyadh in 2026?
As of early 2026, the property types that resell fastest in Riyadh are clean-title 2-bedroom apartments in high-transaction districts like Ar Rimal, Al Munsiyah, and Qurtubah, because these units attract the largest pool of potential buyers including families, young professionals, and investors.
A typical time on market to sell a property in Riyadh is 1 to 3 months for correctly priced apartments in liquid districts, while villas and unique or premium homes often take 3 to 6 months or longer, especially if they are priced ambitiously or have unusual features.
What makes certain properties sell faster in Riyadh is accurate pricing relative to comparable transactions, proximity to Riyadh Metro stations (which have pushed some nearby districts up 17% to 32% in value), and being in areas with strong rental demand that gives buyers a backup exit strategy.
The property types that tend to be slowest to resell in Riyadh are large luxury villas in peripheral locations, apartments with poor parking or weak building maintenance, and any unit with title complications or zoning questions under the new foreign ownership framework.
If you're interested, we cover all the best exit strategies in our real estate pack about Riyadh.
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What sources have we used to write this blog article?
Whether it's in our blog articles or the market analyses included in our property pack about Riyadh, we always rely on the strongest methodology we can and we don't throw out numbers at random.
We also aim to be fully transparent, so below we've listed the authoritative sources we used, and explained how we used them and the methods behind our estimates.
| Source Name | Why It's Authoritative | How We Used It |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate General Authority (REGA) | Official Saudi real estate regulator publishing market indicators. | We used REGA as the ground truth reference for how the government frames market transparency. We triangulated its indicator coverage with transaction data from major consultancies. |
| GASTAT Real Estate Price Index Q4 2025 | Official Saudi statistics agency's price index publication. | We used it to anchor the latest nationwide price movement into the 2026 context. We used its breakdown by property type to sanity-check consultancy-reported growth. |
| ZATCA Real Estate Transaction Tax | Official tax authority page for the 5% RETT. | We used it to anchor the headline closing cost every buyer pays. We kept our cost math clean by referencing official tax rules rather than blog estimates. |
| Knight Frank Saudi Arabia Residential Market Review | Major global consultancy citing official Saudi sources. | We used its Riyadh apartment and villa SAR-per-sqm benchmarks as a credible citywide pricing anchor. We then adjusted that anchor using later 2025 signals from other sources. |
| Cavendish Maxwell H1 2025 Report | Established research consultancy with transparent methodology. | We used it for recent Riyadh directionality showing apartment and villa price growth. We used it to bound what "typical" pricing means going into 2026. |
| JLL KSA Living Market Dynamics Q3 2025 | Major global real estate consultancy with structured research. | We used it to identify transaction hotspots by area for resale liquidity insights. We used it to name real Riyadh districts rather than giving generic neighborhood advice. |
| CBRE Saudi Arabia Q3 2025 Market Review | Major global consultancy with recurring market reviews. | We used it to cross-check the narrative that Riyadh saw strong underlying residential growth. We used it to keep our 2026 expectations realistic given policy responses. |
| Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) Monthly Statistics | Central bank publishing financial and mortgage statistics. | We used it to support that mortgage financing exists in Saudi Arabia. We used it to triangulate mortgage feasibility discussion for foreigners. |
| Ministry of Justice Real Estate Market Platform | Ministry responsible for notarial and transaction infrastructure. | We used it to show transactions are tracked via official channels. We used it to support scam-avoidance guidance about verifying through official systems. |
| Ministry of Municipalities White Land Tax Regulations | Official regulation text affecting land holding costs. | We used it to explain the main recurring government levy that can apply to property. We used it to warn that cheap land can carry policy risk and holding costs. |
We created this infographic to give you a simple idea of how much it costs to buy property in different parts of Saudi Arabia. As you can see, it breaks down price ranges and property types for popular cities in the country. We hope this makes it easier to explore your options and understand the market.
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