Saudi Minister of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing Majid Al-Hogail has launched the geographical zones for the application of the White Land Fees program in Riyadh.
The initiative follows directives from Crown Prince and Prime Minister Prince Mohammed bin Salman and reflects the government’s commitment to serving citizens and residents.
Al-Hogail described the move as a key step toward regulating the property market and encouraging balanced urban development.
The Crown Prince had earlier instructed authorities to take measures to restore balance in Riyadh’s real estate sector and curb speculative land hoarding within urban areas. These efforts aim to increase supply and stimulate buying and selling activity.
Government oversight has already produced significant outcomes, including Cabinet approval to amend the White Land Fees law and the issuance of new executive regulations, both designed to promote development within urban zones and improve market balance.
Commenting on the launch, Al-Hogail said the new phase allows landowners and developers to capitalize on opportunities while advancing the ministry’s objectives of boosting supply and creating a healthier real estate market. He stressed that defining the zones demonstrates a commitment to transparency, helping owners understand their obligations and encouraging the development of idle land.
The designated zones were determined through detailed studies to ensure fairness and efficiency. They are structured across five priority tiers, with fees reaching up to 10 percent in the highest category, while properties outside the zones are exempt. The system is designed to discourage land monopolization and promote optimal land use.
The regulations under preparation will detail eligibility, exemptions, fee calculation, notification procedures, and anti-evasion measures to ensure fairness. Fees will apply without exception to properties within the designated zones. Owners are required to register their land immediately and decide whether to develop, sell, or pay the annual fee.
Registration opens instantly upon announcement and is mandatory within 60 days. Automated systems will track unregistered plots, and online registration is the only valid channel to complete compliance and avoid penalties.
According to the ministry, the decision will help increase supply, stimulate development, and strengthen market fairness, ultimately benefiting both citizens and residents. Fee revenues will be fully allocated to housing projects, further expanding residential availability and supporting developers.
