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The Impact of Saudi Arabia's New Residency Visa Policy on Foreign Demand for Real Estate
Mar 25, 2024
The Impact of Saudi Arabia's New Residency Visa Policy on Foreign Demand for Real Estate Riyadh
By   Internet
  • City News
  • Saudi property
  • home buying demand
  • housing market trends
Abstract: According to the latest survey findings, Saudi Arabia's new residency visa policy has greatly stimulated demand for real estate purchases among foreign nationals in the country. The survey, conducted by global real estate consultancy Knight Frank among 241 foreign nationals, reveals that 77% of respondents plan to purchase property, particularly among the younger millennial generation. They generally view property purchase in Saudi Arabia as a long-term and promising investment.

The survey results further indicate that foreign nationals are more inclined to purchase completed apartments rather than villas. Particularly, white-collar workers and high-income individuals show significant interest in large-scale property projects. However, surprisingly, only a very small percentage of respondents are willing to spend above the government-set threshold for premium residency visas—4 million riyals, indicating that pricing factors play a crucial role in purchasing decisions.


The Impact of Saudi Arabia's New Residency Visa Policy on Foreign Demand for Real Estate

Internet


It is worth noting that the survey also reveals a significant shift in the property preferences of foreign nationals. While the government aims to achieve a 70% homeownership rate by 2030, rising demand has led to soaring property prices, with a 16% decline in overall transaction activity last year. This situation has made most respondents cautious about purchasing property, with only 26% planning to buy within the current year, while 44% intend to purchase within the next year to 24 months.


Furthermore, the survey demonstrates that the property preferences and choices of foreign nationals are closely linked to income levels and family size. For example, among foreign nationals with a monthly income exceeding 40,000 riyals, 92% are more inclined to purchase villas, while among those with a monthly income ranging from 30,000 to 40,000 riyals, 60% prefer townhouses. At the same time, 53% of respondents express a preference for two or three-bedroom apartments, reflecting the smaller family sizes of foreign nationals.

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The Impact of Saudi Arabia's New Residency Visa Policy on Foreign Demand for Real Estate
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