Everything Tenants and Landlords Must Know About Saudi Arabia’s New 2026 Rental Rules

In 2026, Saudi Arabia has introduced new rental rules for tenants and landlords across the country. These rules are designed to make renting fair, safe, and transparent for everyone. The government wants both tenants (people who rent homes) and landlords (people who own houses or buildings) to feel secure.

These rules were announced by the General Authority for Real Estate and apply to all cities, including Riyadh, where house rents have increased rapidly in recent years.

This guide explains the new rental rules in Saudi Arabia in very simple words so everyone can understand them.

What Are Rental Rules?

Rental rules are laws that explain:

• How a house or apartment can be rented
• What landlords must do
• What tenants can expect
• When a tenant can be asked to leave

These rules help avoid conflicts and make renting transparent.

Why Saudi Arabia Changed Rental Rules

Saudi Arabia updated rental laws for several reasons:

• Rent prices are rising too fast
• Tenants were facing sudden eviction
• People needed more time to find new homes
• The government wants a balanced rental market

The new rules protect tenants and also ensure landlords can manage their properties fairly.

Who Announced the Rules?

The rules were announced by the General Authority for Real Estate. This authority:

• Manages property laws in Saudi Arabia
• Works under government and royal orders
• Makes sure the real estate system is clear and fair

Main Goals of the New Rental Rules

The government has set clear objectives for the 2026 rules:

1. Protect tenant rights
2. Stop sudden rent increases
3. Give tenants enough time before eviction
4. Create transparency in rental agreements
5. Control high rent prices

These goals aim to make renting safe and predictable for everyone.

One-Year Notice Rule for Eviction

One of the most important rules is about eviction.

What Is the New Eviction Rule?

• Landlords must give tenants at least one year’s notice before asking them to leave
• Sudden eviction is not allowed
• This gives families enough time to find a new home

Why This Rule Is Important

• Finding a new home takes time
• Families need time to move safely
• Children’s school plans are protected
• Tenants now feel more secure

Rules About Rent Increases

Saudi Arabia had rules about rent increases even before 2026. These old rules still apply:

• Rent cannot increase for 5 years
• Landlords must follow the original rental agreement
• Sudden hikes are not allowed

The new rules continue this protection and make it stronger.

When Can Landlords Evict Tenants?

Eviction is allowed only in specific cases.

Allowed Reasons

• Landlord needs the house for personal use
• House is needed for close family members
• There is a legal reason, supported by proof

What Landlords Must Do

• Show proof for personal need
• Explain why the property is required
• Follow legal procedures

Without proper proof, eviction is not allowed.

When Eviction Is NOT Allowed

• If the landlord just wants higher rent
• If there is no real personal need
• If notice period is ignored

This protects tenants from unfair treatment.

How New Rules Affect Riyadh Rental Market

Riyadh is one of the cities with highest rent prices.

Problems in Riyadh Before

• Rent increased very quickly
• Many families struggled to pay rent
• Shortage of available housing

How New Rules Help

• Control rent prices
• Stop sudden evictions
• Improve housing stability
• Balance supply and demand

Benefits for Tenants

The new rental rules give tenants strong protection:

• One-year notice before eviction
• Protection from sudden rent hikes
• More housing security
• Clear legal rights

Now tenants can live without fear of sudden eviction or unfair rent.

Responsibilities of Landlords

Landlords also need to follow rules carefully:

• Respect rental agreements
• Give proper notice before eviction
• Avoid unfair rent increases
• Provide legal proof for eviction

These rules bring discipline to the rental system.

Simple Table: Old Rules vs New Rules

TopicOld RulesNew Rules

Rent Increase Not allowed for 5 years Same rule continues

Eviction Limited cases One-year notice required

Tenant Protection Partial Strong protection

Market Control Weak Strong

Why Transparency Is Important

Transparency means:

• Clear rental agreements
• Fair decisions
• No hidden terms

Saudi Arabia wants both tenants and landlords to clearly understand their rights.

Long-Term Benefits

In the long term, these rules will:

• Build trust between tenants and landlords
• Stabilize the real estate market
• Reduce legal disputes
• Make housing more affordable

Advice for Tenants

Tenants should:

• Read rental contracts carefully
• Keep copies of agreements
• Know their rights
• Report unfair practices

This ensures protection under the law.

Advice for Landlords

Property owners should:

• Follow government rules
• Avoid illegal rent increases
• Plan ahead for eviction cases
• Stay updated with the regulations

This helps maintain a balanced rental market.

Final Thoughts

The 2026 rental rules in Saudi Arabia are a big step toward a fair and safe housing system. With:

• One-year eviction notice
• Limits on rent increases
• Strong tenant protection
• Clear responsibilities for landlords

Renting homes in Saudi Arabia is now safer, fairer, and more stable.

These rules create peace of mind for tenants and legal security for landlords, making the real estate market balanced and organized.