The Saudi Ministry of Municipalities and Housing announced that the White Land and Vacant Property Fee Program will officially begin issuing its first billing cycle for lands located within designated zones in Riyadh starting January 1, 2026. The initiative aims to boost urban development by pushing owners of undeveloped lands to utilize their properties.
The fee system applies to land plots exceeding 5,000 square meters and is structured into five priority tiers, with annual fees set at 10% for top-priority zones, 7.5% for high priority, 5% for medium priority, and 2.5% for lower priority areas. Lands outside the priority scope are not charged but remain counted within total ownership.
Landowners have the right to file objections within 60 days of receiving their bill, and may request an extension for development subject to approval. Failure to develop within the granted period results in fees being applied retroactively.
A specialized committee of certified real estate valuers will estimate property values and determine development timelines. Revenue from collected fees will be directed toward housing projects and urban development to enhance market balance and improve quality of life.
The ministry also highlighted that the "Etmam" Developer Services Center will support landowners by facilitating permit issuance, expediting approvals, and coordinating with relevant authorities to accelerate development projects in the capital.
