Saudi Arabia Issues 1,360 Housing Licenses for One Million Workers
The Saudi Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has officially issued 1,360 collective housing licenses, a move designed to accommodate approximately one million foreign workers across the kingdom.
- 1,360 licenses issued to house about one million foreign workers in the kingdom.
- New rule requires companies with 20 or more workers to provide approved housing.
- One-year grace period granted for existing facilities to fix any problems.
New Housing Rules
This initiative is part of a new regulatory framework aimed at establishing safer, more secure, and sustainable living standards for the expatriate workforce. Key components of the policy include a mandate for companies employing 20 or more workers to provide residence in either licensed collective housing or approved facilities. The new standards unify health, technical, and safety requirements across all housing units. This development is a core component of the Saudi Vision 2030 Quality of Life Program and follows the 2025 launch of the National Program for the Development of Collective Housing.
Benefits for Workers
For expatriates, the initiative promises improved housing quality, enhanced safety protocols, reduced overcrowding, and centralized utility management. The authorities have granted existing facilities a one-year grace period to rectify any deficiencies and align with the new regulatory requirements. Image credit: Saudi Press Agency / Ministry of Municipalities and Housing.