Big Change in Saudi Arabia! New Rental Laws for Tenants and Landlords in 2026
Saudi Arabia has announced new rental rules for 2026. These rules are designed to help tenants (people who rent homes) and landlords (people who own homes or buildings). The goal is to make renting fair, safe, and clear for everyone.
The General Authority for Real Estate shared these new rules. They apply across the country, including big cities like Riyadh, where rent prices have risen rapidly in recent years.
This article explains these rules in 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 rights tenants have
- When a landlord can ask a tenant to leave
These rules prevent misunderstandings and conflicts between landlords and tenants.
Why Saudi Arabia Changed Rental Rules
The government made new rules because:
- Rent prices were rising very fast
- Tenants faced sudden eviction
- People did not get enough time to find new homes
- The rental market needed more balance
These new rules protect tenants while keeping things fair for landlords.
Who Announced These Rules?
The General Authority for Real Estate announced the new rules. This government body manages property laws in Saudi Arabia and works to improve the real estate system.
Main Goals of the New Rental Rules
The rules are made to:
- Protect tenants’ rights
- Stop unfair rent increases
- Give tenants enough time before eviction
- Make rental agreements transparent
- Control high rent prices
One-Year Eviction Notice
One of the most important new rules is about eviction.
What It Means:
- Landlords must give at least one year notice before asking a tenant to leave
- Sudden eviction is not allowed
Why It Helps Tenants:
- Gives families time to find a new home
- Helps children continue school without interruption
- Reduces stress and financial problems
Rules About Rent Increase
Earlier, Saudi Arabia already had rules about rent hikes:
- Rent cannot be increased for five years
- Landlords must follow the original agreement
- Sudden rent hikes are not allowed
These rules still apply under the new system.
When Can a Landlord Evict a Tenant?
Eviction is only allowed in special situations:
Allowed Cases:
- Landlord needs the house for personal use
- Close family members need the property
- Legal and genuine reasons with proof
What Landlords Must Do:
- Provide evidence
- Follow proper legal procedures
Not Allowed:
- Eviction just to get higher rent
- Eviction without following notice rules
This protects tenants from unfair treatment.
How New Rules Affect Riyadh
Riyadh has some of the highest rent prices in the country.
Problems Before:
- Rent increased quickly
- Families struggled to pay
- Short supply of houses
How New Rules Help:
- Control rent prices
- Stop sudden evictions
- Improve housing stability
- Balance supply and demand
Benefits for Tenants
- One-year notice before eviction
- Protection from sudden rent increases
- More security for families
- Clear legal rights
Tenants can now live with peace of mind.
Responsibilities of Landlords
Landlords must now:
- Follow rental agreements
- Give proper notice before eviction
- Avoid unfair rent increases
- Provide valid reasons for eviction
These rules create order and fairness in the rental system.
Quick Comparison: Old Rules vs New Rules
| Topic | Old Rules | New Rules |
|---|---|---|
| Rent Increase | Not allowed for 5 years | Same |
| Eviction | Limited cases | One-year notice required |
| Tenant Protection | Partial | Strong |
| Market Control | Weak | Strong |
Why Transparency Matters
Transparency means:
- Clear agreements
- Fair decisions
- No hidden rules
The government wants both tenants and landlords to understand their rights clearly.
Long-Term Benefits
- Build trust between landlords and tenants
- Stabilize the rental market
- Reduce legal disputes
- Make housing more affordable
Advice for Tenants
- Read contracts carefully
- Keep copies of agreements
- Know your rights
- Report unfair practices
Advice for Landlords
- Follow government rules
- Avoid illegal rent increases
- Plan eviction legally and early
- Stay updated with regulations
Final Thoughts
The new rental rules in Saudi Arabia are a big step toward fair housing. They protect tenants, ensure landlords follow the law, and make renting safer for everyone.
With one-year eviction notice and limits on rent increases, tenants now have security and peace of mind, while landlords also benefit from clear and fair rules.
