Saudi Arabia Landlord-Tenant Laws: Complete Guide for Property Owners
Comprehensive overview of Saudi Arabia rental property laws, including Ejar registration, security deposits, and eviction procedures.
Legal Disclaimer
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Laws change frequently — always verify current regulations and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice specific to your situation. Landager is a property management platform, not a law firm.Information last verified: May 2026.
Saudi Arabia has significantly modernized its landlord-tenant laws through the Ejar platform and the Real Estate General Authority (REGA). All rental contracts must be registered on Ejar to be legally binding and enforceable as executive instruments.
Key Saudi Arabia Rental Laws at a Glance
The Ejar System
The core of the Saudi leasing market is Ejar, which provides standardized, unified lease agreements. All financial transactions, including rent payments via Mada or Apple Pay, should be documented within the system to ensure a clear legal record. Evictions for non-payment are expedited through the Enforcement Court for Ejar-registered contracts.
Security Deposits
While market custom in Saudi Arabia typically suggests a security deposit of one month's rent, there is no statutory 5% cap on residential lease security deposits under the Real Estate Brokerage Law.
- Documentation: The deposit amount must be clearly stated in the Ejar unified contract.
- Custody: Deposits are typically held by the landlord, though the Ejar platform facilitates the documentation and the return process via the Property Handover Report.
Rent Adjustments
Saudi Arabia emphasizes contractual freedom. Landlords can adjust rent upon the renewal of a lease, provided they communicate the new terms within the required timeframe.
- Fixed-Term Lock: Rent cannot be increased during the term of a fixed Ejar contract.
- Renewal Window: Landlords should propose any rent modifications at least 60 days before the contract expires.
Eviction Procedures
Self-help evictions (such as changing locks or cutting utilities) are illegal. Landlords must utilize the Ejar system to apply to the Enforcement Court. Because Ejar contracts are "executive instruments," landlords can often bypass lengthy trial proceedings and go directly to enforcement for clear breaches like non-payment.
Maintenance and Habitability
Landlords are generally responsible for structural, major plumbing, and major electrical systems to ensure the property remains habitable. Standardized Ejar contracts define minor repairs and routine maintenance as the tenant's responsibility unless otherwise agreed.
Sources & Official References
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