Saudi Arabia Introduces White Land Fees in Riyadh to Accelerate Urban Development

Saudi Arabia

SAUDI ARABIA: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has announced that invoicing under the White Land and Vacant Properties Fees Program will commence in Riyadh on Jan 1, 2026. The initiative will apply to undeveloped land plots larger than 5,000 sq. meters located within designated urban development zones. These zones are categorised by development priority, with annual fees ranging from 10 percent of land value in high-priority areas to 2.5 percent in low-priority zones, while land outside priority areas will remain exempt. Landowners will be permitted to request development extensions upon receiving an invoice, subject to committee approval, and may appeal assessments within 60 days. 

The regulations also address joint ownership structures, requiring proportional payment based on ownership share. The ministry stated that the program aims to discourage land speculation, unlock idle land for development, and expand the supply of serviced properties to help stabilise the real estate market, with proceeds directed toward housing initiatives. To facilitate compliance, the Etmam Developers Services Center will support landowners through licensing, approvals, and coordination with government agencies, reinforcing the program’s role as a strategic tool to enhance land-use efficiency and urban quality of life in Riyadh. 

Source: ArabNews