Saudi Gazette report

ALULA — The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has lifted the suspension on land sales, purchases, and related real estate transactions in selected areas of central and southern AlUla.

The move reinforces RCU’s commitment to placing people at the heart of development while creating a more attractive environment for urban investment and long-term economic growth across AlUla. It also reflects RCU’s approach to balancing the protection of AlUla’s unique cultural and natural heritage with responsible urban and economic development.

Since its establishment, RCU has been implementing an integrated development model rooted in AlUla’s historical legacy and oriented toward future growth. This includes the development of major tourism assets, comprehensive urban planning, and the rollout of essential infrastructure covering transport, energy, water, telecommunications, community services, and social development programs.

Investments in health, education, culture, and tourism underscore RCU’s goal of creating a high-quality, heritage-inspired living environment.

Lifting the suspension represents a significant milestone in AlUla’s development journey. It enables citizens and investors to participate in a well-regulated real estate market in coordination with relevant government entities.

Under the decision, property owners and investors may complete sales, purchases, and deed updates through the Real Estate Market Platform.

The measure is expected to stimulate the real estate and housing market, support supply-and-demand balance, enhance market stability, and diversify residential and commercial offerings across AlUla.

RCU said individuals seeking building permits can apply through its official website, which provides access to approved land-use plans and architectural design guidelines. These requirements ensure that new developments reflect AlUla’s heritage, landscape, and architectural identity while meeting high aesthetic and planning standards.

At the same time, RCU continues to expand public services and infrastructure to improve quality of life and prepare for future population growth.

Ongoing projects include road network expansions, upgrades to energy and water systems, new electricity generation stations, and the development of five strategic water storage facilities.

Enhancements at AlUla International Airport and upgrades to healthcare services, including Prince Abdulmohsen Hospital and neighborhood clinics, are also underway.

The announcement builds on the momentum of RCU’s second masterplan, Path to Prosperity, launched in August 2023.

The plan complements the first masterplan, Journey Through Time, introduced in April 2021, forming a unified roadmap for the economic, social, cultural, and urban development of central and southern AlUla.

RCU said the second masterplan aims to establish an architectural identity that blends authenticity with contemporary living, strengthen AlUla’s position as a global destination for culture, heritage, and nature, and expand opportunities for residents. It also supports private-sector investment, economic transformation, sustainable mobility, and improved health and community services.

The commission said lifting the suspension reflects the maturity of AlUla’s planning and development framework following years of groundwork. The decision is expected to stimulate the local economy and further position AlUla as an attractive destination for living, working, and investment.