As the global entertainment capital takes shape, the demand for Riyadh Qiddiya land plots for expat developers has surged. International development firms are recognizing that the Giga-project itself creates a massive gravitational pull, driving the need for residential, logistical, and hospitality support infrastructures in the surrounding areas. While the core of Qiddiya is developed by the Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC), the periphery offers lucrative opportunities for private capital to build the ecosystem that supports it.
At Rakez, we facilitate the entry of international developers into the Saudi market. We navigate the intersection of location analysis and Ministry of Investment (MISA) regulations to secure land assets that make financial sense.
The “Periphery” Strategy: Where to Buy
Direct ownership within the Giga-project gates is restricted, but the real opportunity lies in the immediate vicinity. Smart capital is targeting two specific zones:
1. Dhurma (The Western Gate)
Located just minutes from the Qiddiya site, Dhurma is transforming from an agricultural town into a logistical and residential hub.
- The Demand: Housing for the thousands of operational staff who will work in Riyadh Qiddiya, plus storage and logistics facilities.
- The Asset: Raw land plots here are significantly more affordable than Riyadh Qiddiya proper, offering high margins for developers building mid-tier residential compounds or warehousing.
2. Al-Muzahmiyah
Situated slightly further west, this area is positioning itself as a leisure and second-home destination.
- The Demand: Private resorts, farm-stays, and hospitality units catering to the overflow of tourists visiting Qiddiya.
- The Asset: Large agricultural deeds convertible to residential/resort zoning.
Legal Pathways for Expat Developers
Acquiring land in Saudi Arabia requires adherence to specific regulatory frameworks. For non-Saudi entities, the process in 2026 is streamlined but strict.
The MISA License
To purchase land for development (not just personal residence), foreign entities must establish a local presence.
- 100% Ownership: Under the Ministry of Investment (MISA), foreign developers can own 100% of a local company.
- Real Estate Qualification: The license requires specific capital requirements and a track record in development. Rakez advises on structuring this entity to ensure eligibility for land ownership deeds (Sukuk).
Premium Residency (Investor Track)
For individual investors or boutique developers, the Premium Residency (Gold Card) offers a direct route to owning commercial and residential land without a local partner, simplifying the acquisition of smaller plots for niche projects.
Zoning and Development Regulations
Before capital deployment, understanding the “Code” is vital. The Royal Commission for Riyadh Qiddiya City and local municipalities have strict coding for areas surrounding Qiddiya to ensure visual harmony.
- Height Restrictions: Many surrounding plots have height caps to preserve mountain views.
- Usage: Converting agricultural land (Zira’i) to residential (Sakani) or commercial (Tijari) is a complex legal process. Rakez conducts due diligence to ensure the plot you buy is actually zoned for your intended project.
Rakez Acquisition Services – Riyadh Qiddiya
We act as the local arm for international developers.
- Site Sourcing: We identify off-market plots in Dhurma and Muzahmiyah that are not listed on public portals.
- Feasibility Studies: We provide data on construction costs and projected absorption rates for residential units in the area.
- Legal Clearing: We verify the digital deed (Electronic Sukuk) to ensure no disputes or overlaps exist.
Secure your footprint near the Kingdom’s entertainment capital. Contact the Rakez Land & Development Team for a portfolio of available plots suitable for international investment.