| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Regulatory Status | Permitted with registration |
| Permit / License Required | Yes — Private Tourism Hospitality Facility permit (national framework) |
| Permit Fee | SAR 1,100 annually per license |
| Penalties | Up to SAR 250,000 for unlicensed operation (first-tier city) plus permanent closure |
| Primary Residence Required | No (Saudi nationals only) |
Short-term rental operations in Riyadh are permitted under an active regulatory framework as of 2026. Hosts operating on Airbnb, VRBO, or other vacation rental platforms must obtain proper licensing: Yes — Private Tourism Hospitality Facility permit (national framework). The associated permit fees are SAR 1,100 annually per license.
Key operational rules for vacation rental hosts in Riyadh include: Primary residence requirement: No (Saudi nationals only).
Zoning considerations for short-term rentals in Riyadh: Local zoning laws may restrict listable property types. Density rules: Up to 8 units per individual without commercial registration.
Hosts who fail to comply with Riyadh's short-term rental regulations may face enforcement action. Up to SAR 250,000 for unlicensed operation (first-tier city) plus permanent closure.
Platform obligations for services like Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com operating in Riyadh: Listings must display valid license number; unlicensed listings not shown.
Apply for your STR permit or registration directly through the official government portal.
Official Source ↗Yes, Airbnb and short-term rentals are legal in Riyadh with proper registration and permits. First-tier city; subject to highest penalty tier
Yes. Riyadh requires the following for short-term rental operation: Yes — Private Tourism Hospitality Facility permit (national framework).
Hosts who operate without proper permits in Riyadh may face enforcement. Up to SAR 250,000 for unlicensed operation (first-tier city) plus permanent closure.
~10,867 Airbnb listings (mid-2025), ~50% licensed
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