Saudi Arabia opens property ownership in Makkah to Nigerians amid major development project

In a landmark move, Saudi Arabia has opened the door for Nigerians and other foreign nationals to own property in the Holy City of Makkah, as part of the newly launched King Salman Gate project — a transformative urban development initiative.

The announcement was made by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of RUA Al Haram Al Makki Company, the firm leading the project.

According to an official statement, the King Salman Gate development will cover up to 12 million square meters of gross floor area near Al-Masjid Al-Haram. The project is designed to significantly modernize the city, enhance the pilgrim experience, and position Makkah as a global model for urban planning.

Key Features of the Project Include:

Residential, commercial, hospitality, and cultural zones integrated into one development.
Capacity for approximately 900,000 worshippers across indoor and outdoor prayer spaces.
Direct connection to major public transport networks, ensuring seamless access to the Grand Mosque.
Restoration of nearly 19,000 square meters of heritage sites to preserve Makkah’s historical identity.
Creation of more than 300,000 jobs by 2036 in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

The project aims to elevate the quality of services provided to pilgrims and visitors, while blending traditional Islamic architecture with modern design standards. The initiative is a central component of the Pilgrim Experience Program, designed to enrich the spiritual journey of millions who visit Makkah each year.

RUA AlHaram AlMakki Company, a Public Investment Fund (PIF) entity, is spearheading the development with a focus on sustainable practices and innovative urban solutions. The company emphasized its commitment to preserving Makkah’s cultural heritage while delivering a world-class living and worship experience.

The inclusion of Nigerians among those now eligible to invest in property in Makkah marks a significant policy shift and opens up new opportunities for international Muslim communities to have a lasting presence in Islam’s holiest city.