How to Protect Yourself from Sudden Rent Increases? Your Complete Guide to the "Ejar" Platform 2026

Introduction: Every Tenant's Nightmare

Imagine this scenario: You've been settled in your apartment for years, your children attend nearby schools, and your life is organized around this location. Suddenly, the landlord calls to tell you that rent will increase by 30% next month, or that you must vacate because he "wants the property for himself"!

This nightmare was a reality for thousands of tenants in Saudi Arabia. But things have changed dramatically. In September 2025, new regulatory provisions were issued that completely changed the rules of the game, and tenants now have clear rights protected by the force of law.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explain everything you need to know to protect yourself from sudden rent increases and arbitrary eviction, and how to use the "Ejar" platform to ensure your rights. Read carefully, as this information could save you thousands of riyals and protect you from unjust decisions.

First: The New Regulatory Provisions - A Revolution in Tenant Rights

On September 25, 2025, a directive was issued from HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to take measures to achieve balance in the real estate sector. These provisions are not mere recommendations, but binding laws that protect your rights as a tenant.

The Historic Decision: 5-Year Rent Freeze in Riyadh

The annual rent increase for residential and commercial properties within the urban area of Riyadh has been suspended for a full 5 years, starting from September 25, 2025 and ending in 2030. This means the landlord cannot increase rent regardless of the reasons.

The decision includes existing contracts that were active before the decision was issued, new contracts concluded after it, and even vacant units offered for rent again must not exceed the value of the last registered contract.

Does This Apply to Other Cities?

Currently, the rent freeze decision applies to Riyadh only. However, the regulatory provisions stated that these provisions can be applied to other cities and governorates by a decision from the General Authority for Real Estate board when needed. The Authority monitors real estate indicators in all Kingdom cities and will make appropriate decisions according to each market's conditions.

Second: When Can the Landlord Raise Rent?

Let's clarify this point definitively, as it's a source of much misunderstanding and disputes:

The Golden Rule: No Increase During Contract Term

The landlord may not raise rent during the current contract term, unless the contract itself contains a clear clause allowing this. If you signed a one-year contract for 30,000 SAR, this amount is fixed throughout the year and cannot be changed.

Upon Renewal: Your Consent is Essential

Even when the contract expires and is renewed, the landlord cannot impose an increase without your consent. The landlord may request a rent increase upon renewal, but must obtain your explicit consent. If you refuse the increase, you have the right to terminate the contract without any penalties or legal consequences. If no agreement is reached, you can file a complaint with the relevant authorities.

Riyadh Exception: Absolutely Prohibited

In Riyadh, the situation is stricter. During the five-year period from 2025 to 2030, the landlord cannot even submit a request to raise the rental value. The new service for requesting rent adjustment in Riyadh is limited to requesting a "reduction" only, not an increase!

Rent Adjustment Request Service

Ejar platform has introduced a new service allowing the landlord to submit a formal request to adjust rent for the next contract period. The landlord submits their request through the platform 90 days before the contract ends. A notification is sent to the tenant who has full right to accept or reject. If the tenant agrees, the contract renews at the new value, and if rejected, automatic renewal is cancelled and this is considered notice of non-renewal.

Third: Automatic Renewal - Your Protection from Sudden Eviction

One of the most important changes in the new system is the "automatic renewal" principle that protects you from unpleasant surprises.

How Does Automatic Renewal Work?

In all Kingdom cities, the rental contract is considered automatically renewed upon expiration, unless one of the parties notifies the other of their unwillingness to renew at least 60 days before the contract ends. This means you won't suddenly wake up to find yourself homeless!

In Riyadh: Additional Protection

The situation in Riyadh provides more protection for tenants. The landlord cannot refuse to renew the contract if the tenant wishes to do so, except in only three exclusive cases.

Fourth: The Three Cases That Force You to Vacate

The system specified only three cases where the landlord can request not to renew the contract and evict the tenant:

1. Tenant's Failure to Pay Rent

If you repeatedly delay rent payment or refuse to pay, the landlord has the right to request eviction. The solution is simple: pay on time through digital payment channels in the Ejar platform to document every payment.

2. Structural Defects Affecting Safety

If there are construction problems in the building that threaten residents' safety, the landlord can request eviction. But there's an important condition: there must be an approved technical report from the competent government authority proving these defects. The landlord's claim is not enough!

3. Personal Use by the Landlord or First-Degree Relatives

The landlord has the right to request property recovery if they want to live in it personally or one of their first-degree relatives, which includes father, mother, sons, and daughters. This does not include siblings or other relatives.

What If the Landlord Claims a False Reason?

If you discover the landlord requested eviction under false pretenses, for example said they want to live there then rented to someone else, you have the right to file a complaint with the General Authority for Real Estate. The landlord will face fines up to 12 months' rent, plus compensation for your damages.

Fifth: Why Documenting Your Contract in "Ejar" is a Necessity, Not an Option

Many tenants are careless about contract documentation, and this is a serious mistake that could cost you dearly. Here's why:

Undocumented Contract = No Legal Protection

Under Cabinet Resolution No. 292 of 1438H, a rental contract not registered in the Ejar platform is not considered a valid contract producing its administrative and judicial effects. In other words: if your contract isn't documented, you have virtually no rights!

Courts Refuse to Consider Disputes

If a dispute arises between you and the landlord and your contract isn't documented, you'll find great difficulty proving your rights in court. Saudi courts refuse to consider disputes over contracts not documented through the Ejar platform.

Documented Contract is an Executive Bond

A documented contract in Ejar is considered an executive bond, meaning you can go directly to the Execution Court to claim your rights without needing to file a lengthy lawsuit.

Fines for Non-Documentation

The new system imposes fines on landlords and brokers who don't document contracts. But as a tenant, you also lose your rights if you accept an undocumented contract.

Sixth: Your Complete Rights as a Tenant

Let's summarize your legal rights clearly:

Guaranteed Basic Rights

You have the right to full use of the property throughout the contract period without unjustified interference from the landlord. You have protection from arbitrary eviction as you cannot be forced out except for specific legal reasons. The landlord must notify you in writing at least 30 days before terminating the contract.

Rent-Related Rights

Rent cannot be raised during the contract term unless the contract states otherwise. In Riyadh, absolutely no increase until 2030. Any increase requires your explicit consent.

Property-Related Rights

You have the right to a property fit for habitation and matching agreed specifications. The landlord is obligated to repair major defects and maintain the property. You have the right to terminate the contract without penalty if significant defects are proven.

Renewal-Related Rights

Automatic renewal is a guaranteed right. You can request non-renewal 60 days before the contract ends without any conditions. In Riyadh, the landlord cannot refuse renewal if you're compliant except in the three specified cases.

Seventh: How to Document Your Contract in Ejar Platform?

The documentation process is simple and done entirely electronically:

Basic Steps

First, you must deal with a licensed real estate broker, as contracts can only be documented through a broker registered in the Ejar platform. Second, the broker enters contract data into the platform with all agreed details and conditions. Third, you and the landlord receive notification to log into the platform and approve the contract. Fourth, approval is done via a verification code sent to the mobile registered in Absher. Finally, after both parties approve, the contract becomes officially documented and approved.

Required Documents

You need a valid national ID or residency, a mobile number registered in Absher, plus a bank account if you're the landlord.

Documentation Fees

Contract documentation fees are usually borne by the landlord, and are minimal fees compared to the legal protection provided by a documented contract.

Eighth: What to Do If You Experience a Violation?

If the landlord tries to raise rent illegally or asks you to vacate without a legitimate reason, you have several options:

1. Direct Communication First

Try to resolve the problem amicably with the landlord. Sometimes misunderstanding is the cause. Explain the new regulations and your legal rights.

2. File a Complaint with the General Authority for Real Estate

If the amicable solution doesn't work, file a formal complaint through the General Authority for Real Estate website at rega.gov.sa, or through the Ejar platform directly at ejar.sa. The Authority will investigate and take necessary action.

3. Resort to Execution Court

If your contract is documented in Ejar, you can go directly to the Execution Court to claim your rights, because a documented contract is considered an executive bond.

4. Appeal a Violation Decision

If a decision is issued against you or the landlord, the affected party has the right to appeal to the competent judicial authority within 30 days of being notified of the decision.

Ninth: Penalties for Violators - A Real Deterrent

The new system didn't just define rights, but set strict penalties for violators:

Huge Financial Fines

Anyone who violates the regulatory provisions is punished with a fine that can reach up to 12 months' rent for the contracted unit. This means a landlord who tries to raise rent illegally could lose the equivalent of a full year's rent!

Covered Violations

Violations include: increasing rent in violation of regulations, raising a vacant property's rent in Riyadh above the last contract value, not registering the contract in Ejar platform, refusing to renew contract in Riyadh without legal reason, requesting tenant eviction without legal justification.

Violation Correction is Mandatory

In addition to the fine, the violator is required to correct the violation within 10 days of notification. For example, if the landlord raised rent illegally, they must return it to the correct value.

Compensation for the Affected Party

The system stipulates compensation for the tenant affected by the violation, in addition to the fine imposed on the landlord.

Tenth: Reward Yourself - Bonus for Reporting Violations

Did you know you could receive a financial reward if you report a violation?

Reward Percentage

The violation reporter is granted an incentive reward of up to 20% of the collected fine value, provided the information they provided led to a final decision confirming the violation.

How to Report?

You can submit a report through the complaints page on the official General Authority for Real Estate website. Make sure to document the violation with clear evidence such as photos, messages, or documents.

Practical Example

If you report a landlord who raised rent illegally, and a fine of 50,000 SAR is issued against them, you could receive a reward of up to 10,000 SAR!

Golden Tips for Every Tenant

Before Signing the Contract

Make sure the contract will be documented in Ejar platform, and don't accept just a paper contract. Read all contract terms carefully before agreeing. Verify the real estate broker is licensed by the Authority. Check the property condition and safety before signing.

During the Rental Period

Pay rent on time through digital payment channels in Ejar. Keep receipts of all payments. Document any correspondence with the landlord. Report immediately any attempt at illegal rent increase.

Before Contract Expiration

If you want to renew, you don't need to do anything as the contract renews automatically. If you don't want to renew, notify the landlord 60 days before contract end. If the landlord notifies you of non-renewal, make sure the reason is legal and legitimate.

In Case of Dispute

Don't vacate the property under pressure without knowing your rights. Consult a legal specialist if necessary. File a complaint with the Authority immediately if you experience a violation. Keep all evidence and documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the landlord raise rent by a certain percentage annually?

In Riyadh: No, completely prohibited until 2030. In other cities: Only with tenant consent upon renewal.

What do I do if the landlord suddenly asks me to vacate?

First make sure the reason is one of the three legally specified cases. If not, refuse and file a complaint with the Authority.

Does a paper contract have legal value?

A contract not documented in Ejar is not recognized by official authorities and courts. Always ensure your contract is documented.

How much notice must the landlord give me before eviction?

You must be notified at least 60 days before the contract ends if they don't wish to renew.

Can the landlord refuse to renew the contract for any reason?

In Riyadh: No, only in the three specified cases. In other cities: Either party can decline renewal with 60 days notice.

What if my contract was before 2024 at a value below market?

In Riyadh, the landlord has the right to object to the Authority about the rent value if the last contract was before 2024, but this doesn't mean they'll automatically get an increase.

Important Links

Official Ejar Platform: ejar.sa | General Authority for Real Estate: rega.gov.sa | New Regulatory Provisions Page: ejar.sa/ar/faqregulation

Conclusion

Tenants in Saudi Arabia are no longer at the landlord's mercy. The new regulations have established a clear legal framework that protects your rights and ensures your housing stability. The key to this protection is documenting your contract in the Ejar platform and knowing your rights.

Always remember: No rent increase during the contract. In Riyadh, complete rent freeze until 2030. Automatic renewal is a guaranteed right. Only three cases justify eviction. A documented contract is your legal shield. Reporting violations can earn you 20% of the fine.

Share this guide with every tenant you know, for knowledge is the strongest weapon to protect your rights.