For families in Dammam, Al Khobar and Dhahran, Bahrain is the closest place to own a weekend home by the sea. The King Fahd Causeway links Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province to Bahrain’s west coast in about 25 km, so many Saudi owners drive over on Thursday evening and return on Saturday. This page covers the areas Saudi buyers prefer, the ownership rules for Saudi citizens and residents, and the costs of buying.
Can Saudi citizens own property in Bahrain?
Yes. As GCC nationals, Saudi citizens can own property in a much wider range of areas than other foreign buyers. Under Law No. 17 of 2020, GCC nationals may own buildings and land in areas designated under Bahrain’s urban planning rules, with prior approval from the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Waqf.
Expatriates living in Saudi Arabia (non-GCC nationals) can buy in Bahrain’s designated freehold zones, such as Amwaj Islands, Diyar Al Muharraq, Riffa Views, Durrat Al Bahrain, Marsa Al Seef and Bilaj Al Jazayer.
Popular areas for Saudi buyers
- Saar, Jasra, Budaiya and Janabiya: villa and compound neighbourhoods on the west coast, the shortest drive from the causeway.
- Amwaj Islands: a freehold island community with beaches, marinas and lagoon-view apartments, popular for holiday homes.
- Diyar Al Muharraq: newer family villas and apartments with waterfront parks.
- Seef and Bahrain Bay: towers close to malls, restaurants and the business district, suited to buy-to-let investors.
Prices in Saudi riyals
Bahraini property is priced in dinars (BHD). Both the dinar and the riyal are pegged to the US dollar, so one dinar is worth roughly 10 Saudi riyals and the rate rarely moves. As a rough guide, a BHD 100,000 apartment costs about SAR 1 million.
Costs of buying
- Registration fee (SLRB): 2% of the property value, reduced to 1.7% if you apply to register within 60 days of notarising the sale contract.
- Agent commission and legal fees: agree these in writing before you sign.
- Service charges: common in managed communities. Ask for the latest annual amount.
How to buy from Saudi Arabia
- Shortlist properties for sale online and plan a weekend viewing trip across the causeway.
- Confirm with the agent or a Bahrain lawyer that you can buy in that area.
- Agree the price and sign a reservation or sale agreement.
- Notarise the contract and register it with the SLRB within 60 days.
- Receive your title deed. Many owners appoint a local agent to manage rentals while they are in Saudi Arabia.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Bahraini residence permit to buy?
No. Saudi citizens can enter Bahrain with their national ID and do not need residency to own property.
Can I rent my property out when I’m not using it?
Yes. Furnished apartments and villas in Amwaj Islands, Seef and Juffair are in demand from expatriate tenants.
How long does the causeway crossing take?
The drive itself is short, but border waiting times vary and are longest at weekends and on public holidays. Check live traffic before you travel.
Start your search
Browse villas and apartments for sale in Bahrain, or read our guide for all GCC buyers.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Ownership rules and fees can change, so confirm them with the SLRB or a Bahrain lawyer before you buy. Last updated October 2026.