Egypt – Buying Property

Can foreign nationals legally buy and own property in Egypt?

As of 2025, the legal position is unambiguous: foreign citizens may hold property in Egypt — including residential, commercial, and touristic assets — provided their acquisitions conform to national legislation and do not extend to restricted categories such as agricultural or border lands. By international comparison, this represents a relatively permissive stance; it is more open than markets such as Thailand, where foreigners face sweeping prohibitions on land ownership, though somewhat more constrained than certain Gulf states offering unrestricted freehold zones.

Law 230/1996 forms the cornerstone of the legal framework: it authorises foreigners to acquire property while imposing material limitations. A foreign individual may hold up to two real estate units for personal or licensed business use, with each unit not exceeding 4,000 square metres. Prime Ministerial Decrees issued between 2024 and 2025 have eased the two-property ceiling for purchasers who remit payment in foreign currency from overseas, and have loosened the size threshold within approved developments.

To curb speculative short-term trading, foreign owners are prohibited from disposing of their property within five years of registration. While non-Egyptians may hold up to two homes for personal residential purposes, selling within that five-year window requires a special exemption granted by the Council of Ministers. Prime Minister Resolution No. 548 of 2005 affords foreigners rights equivalent to those of Egyptian nationals for acquiring freehold title in designated locations, including Sidi Abd El Rahman, Ras El Hekma, Hurghada, and the Red Sea, along with usufruct rights lasting up to 99 years in Sharm El Sheikh. Properties acquired in these designated areas are free from the five-year disposal restriction and may be transferred at any point after purchase.

Law No. 15 of 1963 on the Prohibition of Foreign Ownership of Agricultural Lands categorically bars foreigners — whether individuals or entities — from acquiring agricultural land by freehold, usufruct, or any other form of real property right. Separately, national security provisions under Law No. 14 of 2012 prevent foreigners from owning land in sections of the Sinai Peninsula. The practical alternative for foreign buyers in relevant Sinai areas is to enter into a 99-year usufruct (leasehold) agreement, which is renewable and confers rights closely resembling ownership, while the state retains underlying title to the land.

The sale contract must be authenticated before a public notary and subsequently registered at the local Real Estate Registry (commonly referred to as “Tabu”) within ten days. For foreign purchasers, the authorities require evidence that acquisition funds were transferred from abroad in foreign currency. In January 2024, Parliament amended the Desert Land Law to permit foreigners to hold full ownership of land for investment projects, removing earlier requirements for majority Egyptian shareholding and individual foreign ownership caps.

The primary government authority overseeing property registration is the Egyptian government portal (egypt.gov.eg), with property records maintained at the Real Estate Registration Authority (the “Tabu” offices). For investment-linked property purchases, the relevant body is the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI).

What are average property prices in Egypt, and how do they vary by region?

As of September 2025, average apartment prices span from EGP 9,450 per square metre in developing cities to EGP 27,600 per square metre in Cairo’s most prestigious districts. The Egyptian pound’s depreciation in recent years means these figures represent considerable value when converted from hard currencies — though buyers should always confirm prevailing exchange rates and consult live listings on established platforms such as Aqarmap or Egypt’s Official Real Estate Platform.

Egypt’s costliest property markets include the New Administrative Capital, Dokki, El Sheikh Zayed, Zamalek, New Heliopolis, and the Fifth Settlement in New Cairo. In New Cairo specifically, apartment prices jumped by 157.3% year-on-year to reach EGP 61,550 (approximately US$1,320) per sqm in December 2025, while villa prices surged by 287.8% to an average of EGP 97,000 (approximately US$2,081) per sqm over the same period.

Coastal markets attract premium valuations — along the Red Sea, Hurghada apartments are priced at around EGP 26,500 per square metre, while high-end villas range between EGP 56,400 and EGP 77,300 per square metre. Along the North Coast, apartment prices fall between EGP 21,800 and EGP 26,100 per square metre.

For buyers seeking the most affordable entry points, newer cities such as Badr and Obour offer apartments from EGP 9,450 to EGP 18,500 per square metre. Given how swiftly Egypt’s market conditions shift, all price data should be cross-checked against current listings and official sources before any purchasing decision is made.

Where are the most popular locations to buy property in Egypt?

Cairo remains the country’s most expensive and active real estate market. The capital — encompassing areas such as the New Administrative Capital, New Cairo, Sheikh Zayed, Zamalek, and Maadi — represents the fastest-expanding segment of Egypt’s property sector. These neighbourhoods offer ready access to international schools, diplomatic missions, business centres, and major transport corridors, making them particularly sought after by families and working professionals.

New Cairo — notably the Fifth Settlement and Rehab City — is favoured for its modern gated compounds and consistently high demand from expatriate residents, while Maadi draws diplomats and families alike with its mix of luxury apartments and more accessibly priced flats. Zamalek, a verdant island in the Nile, is treasured for its historic building stock, embassy presence, and lively café scene. The area remains highly sought after in 2025, with values rising steadily, including an 8.7% increase recorded in 2024 alone.

The Red Sea coastline — encompassing Hurghada, Sahl Hasheesh, El Gouna, and other well-established foreigner-friendly destinations — already hosts thousands of property owners from Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. This makes the region one of the most transparent and accommodating markets for international purchasers. The coastal climate, diving and water sports facilities, a well-rooted expat community, and robust holiday rental demand all contribute to the area’s enduring appeal.

Alexandria, Egypt’s second-largest city on the Mediterranean, combines coastal living with the conveniences of an urban centre. Its more modest pricing compared to Cairo, together with sustained infrastructure investment, makes it popular among buyers in search of value without sacrificing city amenities.

Are there any emerging or up-and-coming areas worth considering in Egypt?

The New Administrative Capital represents an extraordinarily ambitious undertaking, conceived with extensive green spaces and state-of-the-art infrastructure. The project is expected to generate substantial employment and fundamentally reshape its surroundings, positioning it as a premier investment destination. Being constructed from the ground up east of Cairo, it already accommodates major government ministries, embassies, and multinational businesses — a venture comparable in scale and ambition to Saudi Arabia’s NEOM or Malaysia’s Putrajaya.

New Cairo recorded a remarkable 180% year-on-year increase in sale prices during the second quarter of 2024, while the Sixth of October City saw prices climb by 175% over the same period. Both areas are benefiting from enhanced road connectivity, new metro line extensions, and the progressive relocation of government departments and corporate headquarters.

Planned urban centres including New El Alamein, New Cairo, New Mansoura, and the Sixth of October City have been designed to absorb growing demand and stimulate activity in the local construction and banking sectors. New El Alamein, positioned on the Mediterranean coast, is attracting increasing interest thanks to its beachfront developments, improved coastal road access, and government-supported tourism infrastructure.

Ras El Hekma, situated along the North Coast, has attracted substantial sovereign investment and is rapidly gaining recognition as a major destination. Its designation under Prime Minister Resolution No. 548 of 2005 — which extends freehold title rights to foreign buyers — makes it especially attractive to international purchasers seeking both legal clarity and long-term security of tenure.

What are the current trends in the property market in Egypt?

Real estate prices in Egypt climbed by double-digit percentages from October 2022 through to October 2025, with the sole exception of January 2025, when growth moderated to roughly 5%. In the three-month period to October 2025, prices declined by 2.52% in real terms. Before this softening, prices rose by 18.2% across 2024, following nominal annual growth of 41.9% in 2023 and 25.4% in 2022. These headline figures are substantially shaped by currency depreciation and inflation; real gains adjusted for inflation have been more restrained.

One prominent trend is the increasing emphasis on sustainable and environmentally conscious development. Developers are progressively integrating green building techniques and technologies aimed at cutting energy use and promoting ecological responsibility. Eco-friendly properties are appreciating at an accelerated pace, with approximately 60% of new residential schemes launched in 2024 incorporating green features. Egypt has set a target for 50% of total investments to meet green criteria by 2025, making sustainably built properties progressively more valuable.

Buyer preferences across Egypt’s property market have been shifting towards more contemporary and premium-specification homes, a trend driven partly by an expanding middle class and rising household incomes. There is a growing appetite among young professionals and families for integrated residential communities offering embedded amenities such as shopping facilities, schools, and recreational spaces.

Properties located close to metro stations in Cairo command an average premium of 15%, underscoring how transport connectivity exerts a meaningful influence on property values in Egypt’s traffic-heavy urban environment. For the most up-to-date market data, consult the Aqarmap property index and the Global Property Guide Egypt page.

Is buying property in Egypt a good investment?

In 2024, rental yields across Egypt averaged between 6% and 8%, placing the country among the highest-yielding property markets in the region. In Cairo, the average gross rental yield for apartments stood at approximately 6.70%, with certain locations reaching as high as 12.73% depending on property type and neighbourhood. By comparison, rental yields in long-established European capitals such as London and Paris typically hover between 3% and 4%, making Egypt stand out considerably for income-oriented investors.

Hurghada’s rental market is especially buoyant, with investment properties generating annual yields of 8–10%. The city’s year-round vacation appeal makes it a magnet for buy-to-let purchasers. In 2023, Egypt hosted 14.91 million tourists — surpassing its previous record set in 2010 — with 15.3 million international arrivals anticipated by the close of 2024.

The Egyptian pound has undergone a succession of devaluations in recent years. For those holding USD, EUR, or GBP, Egyptian real estate currently sits at a “historic discount,” with currency weakness making homes 30–40% less expensive in hard-currency terms despite rising local prices. This exchange rate dynamic is a compelling draw for international buyers, but it cuts both ways — when ultimately selling and repatriating proceeds, returns will partly depend on the EGP/USD or EGP/EUR rate prevailing at that time.

The combination of lower entry costs, elevated rental yields, and meaningful growth potential positions Egypt as an attractive option for regional investors seeking diversification away from pricier markets such as Dubai or Doha. Nevertheless, as with any emerging market, buyers face risks including regulatory shifts, currency volatility, and potential title deficiencies. Property investment always involves risk, and independent financial advice from a suitably qualified professional is strongly recommended before any commitment is made.

What types of property are commonly available to buy in Egypt?

Egypt’s property market encompasses a broad spectrum of options suited to varying budgets and lifestyles. Apartments are by far the most widely purchased type, found throughout city centres, coastal resorts, and gated compounds. They range from compact studio units in urban locations to expansive penthouse apartments in the country’s most exclusive districts.

Villas and townhouses are a fixture of gated communities — referred to locally as “compounds” — especially in New Cairo, Sheikh Zayed, and Red Sea resort developments. Villas attract higher price tags, particularly in coastal settings where luxury properties can reach EGP 77,300 per square metre in premium Red Sea developments. These compounds typically provide security personnel, landscaped grounds, sporting amenities, and sometimes schools or retail outlets, making them a favoured choice for relocating families.

Chalets and resort-style units are prevalent along both the Red Sea and Mediterranean coasts. These are frequently sold off-plan by major developers and are primarily designed for holiday occupancy or short-term rental income, though a significant number of buyers use them as permanent or semi-permanent residences.

Land plots are available, particularly within new cities and desert development zones. Foreign nationals purchasing vacant land are required to commence construction within five years from the date of ownership transfer; failing to meet this obligation may result in the state reclaiming the plot or levying substantial financial penalties. Commercial assets — including offices, retail spaces, and mixed-use schemes — are also open to foreign purchasers where the property serves legitimate business activities under the Investment Law.

What is the typical step-by-step process for buying property in Egypt?

Unlike conveyancing systems found in countries such as Australia or the United Kingdom — where solicitors exchange formal contracts simultaneously and legal title passes at a single “completion” event — acquiring property in Egypt follows a sequence of steps centred on notarial authentication and Land Registry registration. Off-plan purchases introduce additional complexity. The process generally proceeds as follows:

1. Conduct due diligence. Confirm the seller’s ownership by reviewing their title deed at the Land Registry, and establish that the property carries no mortgage or ongoing legal disputes. Your lawyer should obtain a certified extract from the Real Estate Registration Authority (Tabu) to verify the full chain of title.
2. Agree on price and terms. Negotiate directly with the vendor or through a licensed agent. A reservation deposit is not obligatory but is advisable in fast-moving markets such as Hurghada or Cairo.
3. Sign the preliminary sale contract. A bilingual contract drafted in Arabic alongside your preferred language should be prepared and reviewed by an independent licensed lawyer before you sign. This document establishes the agreed price, payment schedule, and conditions of the transaction.
4. Transfer funds via an authorised bank. From 2024 onwards, all property payments by foreign buyers must be routed through state-owned or authorised banking institutions — a requirement designed to ensure full financial transparency. Foreign purchasers must produce evidence that the acquisition funds were remitted from outside Egypt in foreign currency via an approved bank transfer.
5. Obtain Ministry of Interior approval. The Ministry of Interior typically requires between two and four months to grant approval for a foreign buyer. A mandatory security background check must be completed before final registration can proceed.
6. Authenticate and notarise the contract. The sale contract must be authenticated before a public notary, with signing and authentication carried out at the Real Estate Registration Office.
7. Register ownership at the Land Registry. Registration is administered through the Real Estate Publicity Department (REPD). The “Green Contract” is the only instrument that constitutes fully state-registered title. Many properties change hands via “Developer Contracts” or court-validated “Signature Validation” agreements, which are widespread but afford less legal security. Registration must be completed within ten days of notarisation.
8. Pay taxes and fees. The Real Estate Transaction Tax is a one-off levy on the transfer of ownership, typically borne by the seller, calculated at 2.5% of the property’s official or actual sale value — whichever is higher. Registration fees generally range from 1% to 3% of the declared property value (as of 2025). Confirm all current figures with your lawyer or the Egyptian Tax Authority.
9. Collect title documentation. Upon registration, you will receive a title deed in your name. Keep all payment receipts, banking records, and notarial documents in a secure place — these will be essential for any future sale, inheritance claim, or residency application.

Do I need a lawyer to buy property in Egypt, and how do I find a reputable one?

The vast majority of property transactions in Egypt call for the involvement of a qualified lawyer, particularly to verify the title deed, prepare the sale contract, and supervise the registration process. Although some buyers rely on standard template agreements, engaging a licensed lawyer to tailor the documentation to your specific circumstances and property type is strongly advisable. For foreign purchasers, this need is heightened given the additional regulatory requirements surrounding foreign currency transfers and Ministry of Interior approvals.

A critical point: never use the developer’s own legal representative for your transaction. Always appoint an independent Egyptian property lawyer to examine the land title and act exclusively in your interests. A lawyer retained by the developer carries an inherent conflict of interest and is ill-placed to protect you.

As of early 2026, conveyancing legal fees for a foreign buyer in Cairo typically amount to between 1% and 2% of the purchase price. Lawyers commonly charge on a percentage basis, though some offer fixed-fee arrangements for straightforward transactions in newer developments. Always obtain confirmation of the fee structure in writing before formally engaging any legal professional.

All lawyers practising in Egypt must be registered with the Egyptian Bar Association (النقابة العامة للمحامين). Registration can be verified through the Association’s official portal: www.egyptbar.org.eg. When searching for a suitable property lawyer, seek recommendations from your embassy or consulate, the wider expat community, or established international firms with Egyptian offices. Confirm that your chosen lawyer is able to communicate in your language, or arrange for a certified translator — professional contract translation services for foreign buyers in Cairo typically cost between EGP 3,000 and EGP 12,000 (as of early 2026).

What are the most common pitfalls and problems expats encounter when buying property in Egypt?

Title defects and unregistered properties. A substantial proportion of Egyptian properties are sold through informal “Developer Contracts” or court-validated signature agreements rather than via full Green Contract registration. Official Land Registry registration is the only means of legally securing your ownership and is essential to guard against disputes or fraud; without it, your position as a property owner may be legally vulnerable in any resale or inheritance scenario. Always insist on full registration.

Off-plan purchase risks. Buying off-plan is commonplace, particularly in new developments. Verify that the developer holds clear land title and that your payment milestones are tied to specific construction stages. Delivery timelines should be unambiguously defined within your contract. Investigate the developer’s history and request references from previous buyers before committing.

Currency transfer non-compliance. Egyptian law mandates that all foreign purchases be funded through approved foreign-currency remittances. Registration offices will decline to finalise a title transfer to a foreign national unless these foreign-exchange requirements have been met. Under no circumstances should you pay in cash or through unofficial channels.

The five-year resale restriction. A foreign national who acquires property in Egypt is prohibited from disposing of it in any manner for a period of five years from the date of acquisition. Buyers who anticipate selling promptly or treating the property as a short-term investment should establish whether their chosen location qualifies for an exemption under Prime Minister Resolution No. 548 of 2005, which covers several tourist zones.

Purchasing properties classified as antiquities. Any property must not carry antiquity status under the Law on Antiquities Protection — a consideration that applies to historic buildings in Cairo’s or Luxor’s heritage districts. Instruct your lawyer to confirm the heritage classification of any older property before proceeding.

Unlicensed agents and developer lawyers. Always verify that an agent holds the appropriate licence and registration. Engage your own independent lawyer rather than relying on the developer’s in-house team. Foreigners who attempt to circumvent ownership restrictions through nominee arrangements, shell structures, or informal deals risk having their contract voided and facing administrative penalties.

Overlooking ongoing costs. Additional expenditure beyond the purchase price includes maintenance charges in gated communities covering security and cleaning services, and monthly service charges in upscale compounds that can range from $50 to $150. Always obtain a full written schedule of recurring charges before signing any agreement.

Can I buy property in Egypt through a company, and is it worth doing?

Under Egypt’s Investment Law, a locally incorporated company must take the form of a joint stock company, limited liability company, or limited partnership. Crucially, there are no restrictions on the nationality of shareholders, their place of residence, or the proportion of shares they may hold. This creates a viable pathway for foreign investors to hold real estate through a domestically incorporated vehicle.

Any non-Egyptian individual or foreign corporate entity can purchase property in Egypt, though the applicable rules differ by buyer type. Individuals may acquire residential property for personal use, while companies are permitted to own commercial and administrative real estate necessary for their operations. For larger investment projects, corporate ownership structured under the Investment Law and managed through GAFI provides additional protections and greater flexibility.

Egypt’s Investment Law No. 72 of 2017 actively encourages foreign capital by enabling corporate investors to acquire real estate for project purposes and by offering a range of financial incentives, although it did not alter the personal ownership caps applicable to individuals. Corporate ownership may also simplify succession planning and facilitate more straightforward resale arrangements compared to foreign individual ownership.

The disadvantages of corporate ownership include the financial and administrative burden of establishing and maintaining a local entity, annual reporting obligations, potential corporation tax liabilities, and the requirement for ongoing professional support. Corporate structures introduce complexity and cost, and are generally only worth pursuing for larger or commercially orientated investments. Independent legal and tax advice from a qualified Egyptian lawyer and accountant is essential before taking this route.

What taxes and ongoing costs should I budget for when owning property in Egypt?

Real Estate Transaction Tax (Transfer Tax): This is a one-off levy applied on the transfer of ownership, customarily paid by the seller. The rate is 2.5% of the property’s official or actual sale value, whichever is the greater. Foreign buyers are not subject to any additional transfer tax rate; the same 2.5% applies regardless of the buyer’s nationality. As of 2025 — verify the current rate with the Egyptian Tax Authority.

Stamp Duty: Stamp duty in Egypt is generally 0.5% of the property value and is levied on the sale contract documentation. The precise allocation between buyer and seller is frequently agreed as part of the purchase negotiation.

Registration Fees: Property registration is processed through the Real Estate Publicity Department (REPD). Fees typically range from 0.5% to 3% of the declared property value, varying by location and property type.

Annual Property Tax: Egypt levies an annual property tax on built assets based on their estimated rental value. Properties with an annual rental value below EGP 24,000 are exempt from this tax. The standard applicable rate is 10% of rental value after permissible deductions. For the majority of modest residential units, the annual liability is minimal. As of 2025 — confirm current exemption thresholds with the Egyptian Tax Authority.

VAT: VAT is not ordinarily charged on residential property purchases in Egypt, as the Egyptian VAT legislation contains broad exemptions for real estate transactions. However, VAT may become applicable if you acquire serviced or hotel-style units, or if commercial elements such as separately invoiced fit-out services are incorporated into your purchase. The standard VAT rate in Egypt stands at 14%.

Agent Commissions: The standard agency commission is usually 2% of the purchase price, though this may vary depending on the specific agreement reached and the nature of the property.

Community and Maintenance Fees: In gated compounds, monthly charges cover security, landscaping, and cleaning. In premium communities such as those in Maadi, Rehab, or New Cairo, service charges commonly range between $50 and $150 per month. Always request a full written schedule of service charges before completing any purchase.

As a practical rule of thumb, budget a minimum of 10–15% above the listed property price to account for all ancillary costs. All current tax rates should be confirmed directly with the Egyptian Tax Authority (ETA).

What are the official sources I should consult when buying property in Egypt?

• Real Estate Publicity Department (REPD) / Land Registry (“Tabu”): The official authority responsible for property registration and title verification in Egypt. Contact your local governorate office or visit the Egypt Government Portal for branch locations.
• Egyptian Tax Authority (ETA): The national body responsible for property transaction taxes, annual property tax, and income tax on rental earnings. Official website: www.eta.gov.eg
• General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI): The government agency overseeing investment projects and corporate property ownership. Official website: gafi.gov.eg
• Ministry of Interior: Responsible for approving foreign property ownership applications and issuing residency permits. www.moiegypt.gov.eg
• Egyptian Bar Association (النقابة العامة للمحامين): The regulatory body overseeing all lawyers practising in Egypt. Verify a lawyer’s registration at www.egyptbar.org.eg
• Official Egyptian Real Estate Platform: A government-backed property information resource. realestate.gov.eg
• Central Bank of Egypt: For guidance on foreign currency transfer regulations and approved banking channels. www.cbe.org.eg
• Aqarmap Property Index: Egypt’s leading property data and listings platform, useful for tracking prevailing market prices. aqarmap.com.eg

Frequently asked questions about buying property in Egypt

Can I get residency in Egypt by buying property?

Foreign property owners are eligible to apply for a renewable residency permit lasting between one and five years by presenting proof of ownership. The duration granted depends on the value of the property and whether payments were made in foreign currency from abroad. Residency is not conferred automatically — applicants must submit a formal application to the Ministry of Interior and satisfy the eligibility criteria applicable at the time.

Can I rent out my property in Egypt as a foreign owner?

Foreign owners of Egyptian property are entitled to lease their units and collect rental income. That income is, however, subject to Egyptian income tax, and owners are required to register with the Egyptian Tax Authority. Property management firms can oversee short-term or holiday lettings, typically retaining between 10% and 25% of rental receipts as their fee. Compliance with local tax reporting obligations is mandatory.

Is there capital gains tax when I sell property in Egypt?

No capital gains tax currently applies to foreign sellers of residential property in Egypt. As of early 2026, most residential property disposals by individuals are subject to the 2.5% transaction tax on the gross sale value rather than a capital gains tax computed on the profit made. Confirm the current position with a local lawyer or the Egyptian Tax Authority prior to any sale.

Do I need to open an Egyptian bank account to buy property?

Foreign buyers are required to demonstrate that purchase funds were remitted from outside Egypt in foreign currency via an approved banking institution. While a dedicated Egyptian bank account is not strictly compulsory in every case, holding one simplifies matters considerably and is advisable for ongoing ownership obligations such as paying service charges and utility bills. Several major Egyptian banks — including the National Bank of Egypt and Banque Misr — accept applications from foreign residents.

What is the difference between a “Green Contract” and a Developer Contract?

The “Green Contract” is the sole instrument that constitutes fully state-registered title in Egypt. Many properties are transacted via “Developer Contracts” or court-validated signature agreements, which are commonplace but carry weaker legal standing. The Green Contract is registered at the Real Estate Publicity Department and affords the strongest legal protection of ownership. Always aim to secure a fully registered title, and discuss the registration pathway with your lawyer before executing any preliminary agreement.

Can I buy property in Sharm El Sheikh as a foreign national?

Under Prime Minister Resolution No. 548 of 2005, foreign nationals in Sharm El Sheikh may obtain usufruct rights lasting up to 99 years for residential purposes, subject to securing approval from the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Interior, and the National Security Authority. Full freehold ownership is unavailable to foreigners in Sharm El Sheikh owing to the area’s strategic designation, but a renewable 99-year usufruct agreement confers robust, long-term occupancy rights in practice.

How long does the property purchase process take in Egypt?

The timeline varies depending on whether the transaction concerns a resale or an off-plan unit, and on the efficiency of the local registration office. The Ministry of Interior’s approval process for a foreign buyer typically requires two to four months. Factoring in due diligence, contract preparation, notarisation, and registration, buyers should realistically allow three to six months from offer to obtaining full legal title. Off-plan purchases linked to construction schedules may span several years.

Are there any restrictions on what I can do with my property?

Foreign individuals are limited to owning up to two properties in Egypt, which must generally be designated for private residential use by the owner and their immediate family. Buyers who acquire vacant land must initiate construction within five years of the ownership transfer; failure to comply may result in the state repossessing the land or imposing significant financial penalties. Properties holding antiquity status under the Antiquities Protection Law are not available for purchase by foreign nationals, and ownership is categorically excluded in border zones, military areas, and agricultural land.