How to Get a Real Estate License Saudi Arabia (2026): 5 Essentials You Need to Know

Are you ready to step into the fast-evolving world of Saudi real estate? Whether you aim to broker property deals, market houses, manage facilities, or advise clients, you need a valid license to play by the rules. In 2025, that means obtaining a FAL license from the Real Estate General Authority (REGA). Flagship developments such as the Red Sea Project are boosting tourism and expanding real estate opportunities across the Kingdom. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the 5 essentials you must meet before you can legally, and profitably, operate in the Kingdom’s real-estate space.

The Path to Real Estate Licensing in Saudi Arabia

Embarking on a career or business in Saudi Arabia’s real estate sector starts with understanding the licensing landscape. The real estate market in Saudi Arabia is forecasted to grow from over $75 billion in 2025 to nearly $110 billion by 2030.

The Saudi Real Estate Institute plays a pivotal role in equipping professionals with the necessary training programs, while the General Authority for Real Estate ensures that all real estate activities comply with the latest real estate brokerage law.

1. Understand What a FAL License Is (and Why It Matters)

In Saudi Arabia, the FAL license isn’t optional, it’s your legal passport to work in real estate. Issued electronically through REGA’s platforms (commonly called Aqari or Fal), this license authorizes individuals and companies to handle any of the following activities:

• Buying, selling, leasing (brokerage).

• Marketing and advertising real estate.

• Facility/property management.

• Auctions or off-plan deals.

• Consultancy and advisory services.

2. Confirm You’re Eligible (Who Can Apply)

Before diving into courses or applications, you must ensure you meet REGA’s basic eligibility requirements:

• Must be 18 years or older and legally authorized to work in Saudi Arabia.

• Have a clean criminal record (no dishonesty or fraud-related convictions).

• Possess valid Saudi ID / Iqama, or valid business registration if operating as a company.

• Individuals seeking a real estate license must provide proof of financial standing, especially if applying as an establishment.

For foreign residents or investors: Saudi rules are evolving, and while licenses are available to non-Saudis, requirements may vary depending on ownership structure, investment zone, or business status. Foreign companies must register with the Ministry of Investment (MISA) to operate legally in the Saudi real estate market. Foreign nationals can work under a Saudi-licensed brokerage or with a premium residency.

Legal Structures and Regulations: Building on a Solid Foundation

Establishing a successful real estate business in Saudi Arabia starts with a thorough understanding of the legal structures and regulations that govern the sector. The Real Estate General Authority (REGA) serves as the primary regulatory body, setting the standards for real estate brokerage and ensuring that all real estate establishments operate within the framework of the real estate brokerage law. Whether you are launching a new real estate business or expanding an existing one, obtaining the appropriate real estate license is a non-negotiable first step.

3. Complete the Mandatory Training Courses (via SREI)

A license alone isn’t enough. To get licensed, you must complete accredited courses delivered by the Saudi Real Estate Institute (SREI). A minimum passing score of 60% is required for mandatory training courses associated with the FAL license. These courses typically cover:

• Real-estate brokerage and marketing practices.

• Laws and regulations (including ethics & compliance).

• Advertising, contract preparation, and compliance guidelines.

Types of Licenses: Which One Do You Need?

Choosing the right license is a crucial decision for anyone entering the Saudi real estate market. There are several types of licenses available, each tailored to specific real estate activities and business models. The real estate brokerage license is designed for companies and individuals who want to engage in traditional brokerage, property management, or real estate development. Applicants for a real estate license typically undergo a thorough vetting process to demonstrate their qualifications. If your business model involves online real estate brokerage services, you’ll need to obtain the electronic real estate brokers license, which authorizes digital platforms and online transactions.

For those focused on real estate marketing, the FAL license, issued by the General Authority for Real Estate, is mandatory for both individuals and companies. Each license type comes with its own set of requirements, restrictions, and compliance obligations. Understanding these distinctions is essential for legal compliance and for ensuring your business can operate smoothly within Saudi Arabia’s regulatory framework.

4. Apply via REGA’s Portal (Aqari / Fal) — Documents, Fees, and Process

To apply for a real estate license in Saudi Arabia, you must complete the official real estate license application form and provide a valid national ID or Iqama. You will also need to submit proof of your required educational qualifications along with a certified real estate training certificate. A registered national address is mandatory for regulatory compliance and official documentation. Finally, the applicable licensing fees must be paid in full to complete the process.

Make sure all documents are up to date and that your national address is registered, as this is essential for government interactions and maintaining accurate business information.

Estimated Cost & Duration

• Individual FAL licence: ~ SAR 300/year (subject to change). This fee applies to the real estate brokerage license in Saudi Arabia.

• Company / establishment licence: ~ SAR 1,000/year (approximate).

• Licence processing time: With accurate documents, many applicants receive approval within hours to a few days after submission.

Once approved, you’ll get your licence electronically. REGA will review the application and documentation; upon approval, the license is issued, usually within 7 business days for complete applications. You can then legally start offering real estate services under the licensed activity type(s).

5. Understand What Comes After Licensure: Compliance, Renewal & Professional Standards

Licensing isn’t a “set-it-and-forget-it” exercise. Holding a FAL licence comes with responsibilities:

• Compliance with the law — All deals, advertisements, and contracts must follow the guidelines set by REGA’s real estate law. Legal compliance is essential to protect all parties involved in real estate transactions, including buyers, sellers, and advisors. Those marketing or managing real estate properties must adhere to all legal and regulatory obligations.

• Contract registration — Use official platforms like Aqari / Ejar for property contracts and transactions.

• Transparency and ethics — Misleading advertising, false listings, or unlicensed sub-contracting can lead to fines, license suspension, or revocation.

• Renewal — Most licences expire annually and must be renewed through REGA’s e-service portal.

Why Getting Licensed Now Is Especially Important (2025 Context)

• The market is expanding fast, with demand for transparent, regulated real-estate services rising. The commercial real estate sector is experiencing significant growth, supporting office, retail, hospitality, and tourism-related developments, and creating new opportunities for brokers.

• Regulatory enforcement has grown tighter under REGA, making unlicensed brokerage riskier than ever.

• New foreign-investment rules are coming into effect, licensed, compliant brokers may have a competitive edge in cross-border deals. Real estate investments from both domestic and international investors are driving sector expansion and opening up new opportunities in Saudi Arabia.

Your Next Step Toward a Successful Real Estate Career in Saudi Arabia

Now that you understand what it takes to secure your real estate license in Saudi Arabia, the next move is making sure the process is smooth, compliant, and strategically planned. That’s where TASC comes in.

From licensing support and document processing to workforce solutions and regulatory guidance, TASC helps you simplify every step of your real estate journey in the Kingdom. Whether you’re an individual agent, a growing brokerage, or an international investor, our experts ensure you meet all Saudi regulations efficiently and confidently.

Partner with TASC today and focus on what matters most, building and scaling your real estate career in one of the world’s fastest-growing markets.