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Saudi Arabia Eyes Nationwide Freeze on Rent Hikes

The Kingdom may expand its five-year rent freeze beyond Riyadh to stabilize housing costs.

  • Publish date: Wednesday، 08 October 2025 Reading time: 1 min read
Saudi Arabia Eyes Nationwide Freeze on Rent Hikes

Saudi Arabia might soon extend its rent freeze policy across the country, aiming to keep housing costs stable and fair for both tenants and landlords.

The Real Estate General Authority is currently studying the move, which could apply to all regions in the Kingdom for a five-year period, according to Al Arabiya.

A Plan to Keep Rents Steady

Authority spokesman Tayseer Al-Mufarrej said officials are tracking rental trends in every city and will implement the freeze based on market conditions and data monitoring.

The goal? To stabilize rent prices for both residential and commercial properties, prevent sudden rent spikes, and regulate the landlord-tenant relationship more effectively.

Following Riyadh’s Example

Riyadh introduced the same rent freeze earlier, following directives from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The policy halted annual rent increases for five years, giving tenants relief from steep hikes while helping investors plan confidently in a stable market.

The measure also supports the Kingdom’s effort to balance housing supply and demand and control inflation in the real estate sector.

Strict Penalties for Violators

The authority has already detected violations since the rules took effect in Riyadh—like illegal rent hikes, eviction requests, or unregistered payments.

Those caught breaking the law face fines of up to one year’s rent, while whistleblowers could earn up to 20% of the violation’s value as a reward.

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