The numbers are in.
According to the latest REGA monthly bulletin, Saudi Arabia recorded over 281,000 residential rental contracts in January 2026, a 17% jump compared to the same month last year. Non-residential rentals climbed even higher, up 23%.
At the same time, real estate sales transactions dropped 38% year-over-year. Average apartment sale prices fell 7%, and villa prices dropped 22%.
What does this mean? People are choosing flexibility. And the market is shifting accordingly.
Riyadh continues to lead.
The capital accounted for 32% of all rental transactions nationally, with over 135,000 deals closed in January alone. Makkah followed at 27%, and the Eastern Province at nearly 17%.
Rental advertising also surged up 30% year-over-year, reflecting growing landlord activity and confidence in the rental market.
Why renting makes sense right now.
With sale prices softening and rental demand accelerating, more residents, from young professionals to families to expats, are recognizing that renting offers something ownership can’t: flexibility.
The ability to move for a better opportunity. To adjust your living situation as your life changes. To not tie up your savings in a single asset.
This is what Ejari was built for.
We pay your landlord upfront for the full year. You pay us monthly. No lump sums. No stress. Transparent fees, Sharia-compliant terms, and an instant digital experience.
With 281,000+ new rental contracts signed in just one month, the shift is clear: Saudi Arabia is renting smarter. And Ejari is here to make that easier.
