📈 Overview of the Rental Market in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s rental housing sector is experiencing rapid expansion under Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the national economy and enhance access to modern, affordable housing for both citizens and expatriates. Renting is no longer just a temporary option—it’s an increasingly viable lifestyle choice for long-term residents, young professionals, foreign workers, students, and even real estate investors.
The market now offers a wide range of housing types, from compact studios to luxurious high-rise penthouses. Tenants can choose between furnished and unfurnished units to suit their budget and preferences. Central to this transformation is the government-backed Ejar and Absher rental system, which ensures legal transparency and tenant protection.
As urban development accelerates across key cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, the availability of quality apartments is improving, supported by better infrastructure and advanced digital tools. The country is also seeing a surge in smart apartments and co-living spaces—particularly appealing to millennials, digital nomads, and students.
🏙️ Major Cities and Areas for Apartment Rentals in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia offers a dynamic rental landscape, with each major city providing unique living experiences. From the bustling capital to tranquil mountain towns, tenants can find neighborhoods that match their lifestyle.
Riyadh:
- Al-Olaya – Central business district with luxury towers and hotels.
- Ar-Rawabi – Balanced living with schools, shops, and parks.
- Al-Rimal – Budget-friendly and expanding, ideal for families.
Jeddah:
- Al-Hamra – Upscale seaside area with embassies and cafes.
- Bani Malik – Central and affordable, great for professionals.
- Al-Samer – Family-oriented with good schools and facilities.
Dammam/Al-Khobar:
- Al-Aziziyah – Residential with access to supermarkets and parks.
- An-Nawras – Coastal living with strong demand from expats.
Mecca/Medina:
- Az-Zaher, Al-Awali – Near religious sites, suitable for long-term or seasonal residents.
Abha/Taif:
- As-Sadd, Al-Wisam – Scenic, peaceful areas with a cool climate ideal for retirees.
Each city is contributing to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals by investing in livable, well-planned urban communities.
💰 Apartment Rental Prices in Saudi Arabia
Saudi apartment rental prices vary based on location, apartment type, furnishings, and building amenities. Here’s a general guide:
- Riyadh: SAR 1,500 – SAR 15,000/month
- Jeddah: SAR 1,800 – SAR 20,000/month
- Dammam/Khobar: SAR 2,000 – SAR 10,000/month
- Mecca/Medina: SAR 1,200 – SAR 8,000/month
- Abha/Taif: SAR 1,500 – SAR 4,000/month
High-end units in city centers tend to cost more due to demand and amenities like gyms, pools, and concierge services. Suburban areas and older properties offer budget-friendly alternatives. Tenants can also choose tiered plans with bundled services like maintenance and utility coverage.
📍 Where is the Cheapest Place to Live in Saudi Arabia?
Jeddah and Riyadh are among the world’s cheapest cities to live in. While central areas are more expensive, outer districts offer affordable and practical housing.
- Tuwaiq (Riyadh) – Budget apartments and family compounds
- Bani Malik (Jeddah) – Cost-effective with central access
- Taif & Abha – Scenic towns with low demand and lower rents
- Mecca/Medina Outskirts – Inexpensive seasonal or long-term rentals
Shared housing, co-living spaces, and studio apartments help reduce expenses, especially for single tenants and students.
🏷️ How Much Does it Cost to Rent an Apartment in Saudi Arabia?
Rent in Saudi Arabia ranges from SAR 1,600 to SAR 110,000 annually, based on size, city, and furnishing.
Average Monthly Rates:
- Studio: SAR 1,200 – SAR 3,000
- 1BHK: SAR 1,800 – SAR 5,000
- 2BHK: SAR 2,500 – SAR 8,000
- 3BHK: SAR 3,500 – SAR 12,000
- Luxury Penthouse: Up to SAR 20,000+
Most landlords offer flexible payment options—monthly, quarterly, or annually—and may provide discounts for upfront full-year payments.
📄 How Rental Contracts Are Regulated in Saudi Arabia
Rental agreements are regulated through the government-run Ejar and Absher rental system, providing digital security and legal backing.
Ejar:
- Registers contracts online
- Defines terms such as rent, duration, and responsibilities
- Supports dispute resolution and documentation
Absher:
- Verifies digital identity for contract parties
- Links lease agreements to national profiles
- Provides legal proof in the event of disputes
Recent enhancements to Ejar include multi-language contracts and modules for foreign investors and property managers.
📝 Conditions and Procedures for Renting Apartments in Saudi Arabia
Requirements:
- Iqama (for expats) or Saudi National ID
- Proof of income or employment letter
- Bank statement or sponsor reference (if applicable)
- Absher-linked mobile number
Step-by-Step Process:
- Browse listings on Real Estate Saudi or trusted platforms
- Visit selected properties and evaluate options
- Agree on rent, lease duration, and services
- Register contract via Ejar
- Verify identity through Absher
- Pay deposit (1–2 months’ rent) and first installment
✅ Rental Checklist:
- Verified ID
- Income proof
- Access to Ejar/Absher
- Initial deposit funds
🧑💼 Rights and Responsibilities of Landlords in Saudi Arabia
Landlord Rights:
- Receive rent on time
- Inspect property as per agreement
- Reclaim property after contract ends or if breached
Landlord Responsibilities:
- Ensure livable conditions
- Perform timely repairs and maintenance
- Comply with Ejar contract terms
Rights of tenants and landlords in Saudi Arabia are enforced by law to promote fair housing practices.
🧾 Rights and Responsibilities of Tenants in Saudi Arabia
Tenant Rights:
- Peaceful, exclusive use of the property
- Timely repairs and maintenance
- Fair lease renewals or exit procedures
Tenant Responsibilities:
- Timely rent payment
- Avoid unauthorized changes or subletting
- Maintain cleanliness and property care
Thanks to Vision 2030 rental housing Saudi reforms, expats and locals now benefit from improved protections and legal transparency.
🤝 For All Your Real Estate Needs in Saudi Arabia, Consult Real Estate Saudi
Finding the right apartment in a new city can be challenging. Real Estate Saudi simplifies the process with:
- Tailored neighborhood advice
- Side-by-side rent comparisons
- Help navigating Ejar and Absher contracts
- Legal and financial guidance
- Access to exclusive listings
Whether you’re relocating for work, education, or investment, we’re here to support your journey.
Looking to rent an apartment in Saudi Arabia? Book a free consultation with Real Estate Saudi and let our experts help you find your ideal home.
Certain FAQs
What is the average cost of renting an apartment in Saudi Arabia?
The average apartment rental prices in Saudi Arabia range from SAR 1,200 for a studio in outer districts to SAR 20,000+ for a luxury apartment in major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah. Factors such as city, neighborhood, furnishing, and amenities influence these rates.
How do I rent an apartment in Riyadh as an expat?
o rent an apartment in Riyadh as an expat, you need a valid Iqama, proof of employment, and access to the Ejar and Absher systems. Choose a neighborhood based on your budget, sign a digital contract on Ejar, and verify it through Absher for legal compliance.
Which are the cheapest cities to live in Saudi Arabia?
Some of the cheapest cities to live in Saudi Arabia include Taif, Abha, and outskirts of Mecca and Medina. Even in larger cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, districts such as Tuwaiq and Bani Malik offer affordable rental options with essential amenities.
What is the Ejar and Absher rental system in Saudi Arabia?
The Ejar and Absher rental system is a government-mandated platform that regulates apartment leases. Ejar handles digital contract registration and dispute resolution, while Absher links the contract to your national ID for legal protection and verification.
What rights do tenants have under Saudi Arabia’s rental law?
Under rights of tenants and landlords Saudi Arabia, tenants are entitled to safe, habitable housing, timely maintenance, and legal protection through Ejar. They also have the right to fair contract renewals and clear exit procedures as per Vision 2030 rental housing Saudi reforms.
