RIYADH: More than 51,000 Saudi families became first-time homeowners during the first five months of 2026, while an additional 38,471 families received housing and financing assistance, according to the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing.

The ministry said the figures, covering the period from January through the end of May, reflect ongoing efforts to expand homeownership by offering a variety of housing and financing options to eligible Saudi families across the Kingdom.

Since the launch of the Sakani program in 2017, the total number of supported housing contracts has reached 1,040,215, highlighting the initiative’s long-term contribution to increasing homeownership opportunities for Saudi citizens.

Among the Kingdom’s regions, Riyadh recorded the highest number of supported housing contracts, followed by Makkah, the Eastern Province, and Jazan, reflecting continued demand for housing solutions and the broad reach of government support programs.

The ministry noted that Sakani continues to provide multiple housing and financing options, including ready-built homes, off-plan residential units, self-construction solutions, and residential land, allowing families greater flexibility in selecting homes that best meet their needs.

It added that residential projects developed in partnership with private real estate developers are creating integrated communities that combine housing with public services, essential facilities, and open spaces, contributing to improved quality of life and supporting the Kingdom’s vision for sustainable urban development.

According to the ministry, collaboration between government agencies, financing institutions, and the private sector has strengthened housing supply, expanded access to homeownership, and improved the home-buying experience for beneficiaries while supporting the long-term sustainability of the housing sector.

These efforts helped raise Saudi Arabia’s homeownership rate to 66.24 percent by the end of 2025, bringing the Kingdom closer to its 70 percent homeownership target under Saudi Vision 2030.

The ministry emphasized that its mission extends beyond increasing homeownership, focusing on developing integrated residential communities that enhance quality of life and promote vibrant, sustainable urban environments.

It reaffirmed its commitment to expanding housing supply through additional residential projects and housing options in partnership with the private sector, helping meet the needs of Saudi families, maintain balance in the real estate market, and support the growth of thriving communities.