How the Housing Program Turned Saudi Dreams into Reality: [Facts & Figures]

Introduction:

Every family has the right to security and privacy; one of the most crucial factors in ensuring security is having a home to call their own. A house is not just a place to live; it is a witness to a family’s journey, where moments turn into lasting memories.

Recognizing the importance of permanent housing for Saudi families, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has worked to make homeownership more accessible for its citizens. As a result, the Housing Program became a key initiative under Vision 2030, making it faster and easier than ever for Saudi citizens to receive housing support.

So, what is the Housing Program? What are its key directions? And what types of support does it offer individuals?

The Housing Program for Residential Support

Launched in 2018 after years of anticipation, the Housing Program was designed to simplify the process for Saudi families to obtain financial support for homeownership. It streamlined procedures, digitized contracts and documents, and reformed housing regulations to make homeownership more accessible. From the outset, the program focused on increasing the availability of high-quality, affordable housing, positioning Saudi Arabia among the leading nations with a clear national housing strategy and a defined goal for homeownership.

The program has significantly transformed the housing sector by regulating the real estate market, expanding access to financing, simplifying regulatory frameworks, and offering diverse housing options to suit various needs. These efforts have paved the way for achieving one of Saudi Vision 2030’s key objectives: raising the homeownership rate to 70% by 2030.

Types of Housing Support Provided by the Housing Program

The Housing Program is designed to cater to all segments of society, offering various types of support to meet the diverse needs of citizens, regardless of their financial situation. To facilitate homeownership, the program provides six different support options:

• Subsidized Mortgage Loans A government-supported mortgage loan of up to 500,000 SAR, with the government covering part of the profit margin. This loan is provided through accredited banks and financial institutions.

• Direct Financial Support A lump sum financial grant provided to beneficiaries to help them purchase a home without taking out a loan, primarily aimed at supporting low-income households.

• Ready-to-Move-In Housing Units Fully constructed residential units made available through the Ministry in partnership with real estate developers, offered at affordable prices with easy financing options.

• Free Residential Land Grants Plots of land were granted free of charge in various locations across the Kingdom, allowing beneficiaries to build their homes according to their preferences.

• Public-Private Partnership Programs (Sakani) Enables beneficiaries to purchase housing units from real estate developers at subsidized prices, including villas and apartments within fully serviced communities.

• Self-Construction Support A tailored option for citizens who already own land and wish to build their own homes, providing financial support with assistance in obtaining permits and facilitating construction.

Digital Platforms of the Housing Program

The Housing Program has created significant opportunities for individuals to own homes that suit their lifestyles and financial situations. To facilitate access to available options and streamline the application process, the program launched dedicated digital platforms, including Sakani and Ejar.

• Sakani Platform Sakani is a government initiative under the Ministry of Housing aimed at increasing homeownership rates among Saudi citizens, particularly first-time buyers. The program offers a variety of housing and financing solutions to individuals registered with the Ministry of Housing and the Real Estate Development Fund.
  The Sakani platform serves as the program's digital hub, providing an easy-to-use online system for exploring housing options and financial support. It simplifies application processes, ensures quick access to relevant information, and keeps users updated on the latest housing projects.

• Ejar Platform Ejar is a comprehensive digital network designed to simplify the property rental process in Saudi Arabia. It offers a secure and convenient way to manage lease contracts electronically, making renting more efficient for both tenants and landlords.
  Since its launch in 2018, Ejar has streamlined property leasing by introducing a standardized electronic contract officially recognized by the Ministry of Justice. The platform integrates with multiple government agencies, eliminating the need for physical visits to government offices or writing checks, thereby making rental transactions more seamless and secure.

Major Housing Projects in Saudi Arabia

Through partnerships with leading real estate developers, Sakani offers a smooth application process for purchasing housing units under the Housing Program. The platform provides access to some of the largest residential projects, featuring fully integrated communities with modern amenities, legal support, and diverse financing options.

Here are the top 10 housing projects currently available:

• Fursan Community (Riyadh) – 50,000 units
• Al-Mukaimen Community (Madinah) – 6,000 units
• Khuzam Community (Riyadh) – 32,578 units
• Sadayem Community (Jeddah) – 8,576 units
• Qumra Community (Safwa) – 2,289 units
• Al-Asala Community (Riyadh) – 3,829 units
• Al-Sadan Community (Jeddah) – 7,850 units
• Makkah Gateway (Makkah) – 8,300 units
• Al-Wajaha (Eastern Province) – 13,859 units
• Al-Ghuroob Community (Madinah) – 8,368 units

These projects aim to provide modern, well-equipped housing in vibrant communities, ensuring that Saudi families have access to high-quality, affordable homes.

Achievements & Key Figures

Since its launch, the Housing Program has made remarkable progress, surpassing initial expectations set in 2018. Here are some of its key achievements:

• 1.4 million Saudi families benefited from the Sakani Program within four years.
• 15,551 families moved into their new homes in 2025.
• 40,000 housing units were introduced under the Developmental Housing Initiative (2021–2025).
• 80% beneficiary satisfaction rate for housing services.
• 355,000 new financing contracts established by 2025.
• 38,000+ direct job opportunities created through the Housing Program.
• A 70% homeownership rate is expected by 2030.
• 157+ billion SAR contributed to the national GDP by the Housing Program.
• 3.4 million users registered on the Sakani Platform.
• 4.6 million residential lease contracts documented through the Ejar Platform.
• 970,000+ commercial lease contracts documented on Ejar.
• 6.2 million rental units registered on Ejar.