Starting next month, a significant shift is set to reshape Saudi Arabia's real estate rental market as rents will be exclusively processed through the Ejar electronic platform. This move, aimed at ensuring secure financial transactions, is part of the Real Estate General Authority's initiative to streamline the rental process and minimize third-party involvement.

Tayseer Al Mufarrej, the spokesperson for the Authority, emphasized that beginning January, rents will only be accepted through the Ejar platform. The measure seeks to reduce interference from intermediaries, fostering a safer and more efficient market environment, as explained during an interview with Al Arabiya TV.

To enforce compliance, the Authority will impose immediate and effective penalties, including the suspension of violators in accordance with real estate regulations. Any criminal suspicions or violations of other systems will be referred to security agencies for necessary action.

Notably, over 8 million lease contracts have already been registered through the Ejar platform, reflecting the trust placed by real estate dealers in its reliability and efficiency.

As Saudi Arabia embraces digitalization, this move aligns with the country's broader trend towards electronic services. The ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digital solutions. The Kingdom's commitment to digital transformation is evident in initiatives like the Absher app launched in 2013, offering a range of government services to citizens and foreign residents. Additionally, the Najiz platform introduced 11 new judicial e-services last year, expanding the total available services to over 150.