(Saudi Arabia and Turkey Real Estate Investment: Riyadh Seeks Project in Antalya)

Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 policy, based on its economic transformation, directs investors to seek global opportunities. In this context, Riyadh-based major capital groups and state-backed investment funds have made Antalya, Turkey's most popular tourist port, a prime destination for luxury hotel, residential, and integrated tourism projects. Turkish real estate companies are also entering the Saudi market, paralleling this trend—thus creating a new real estate bridge between Antalya and Riyadh. Why Antalya? Saudi Investors' Reasons Strategic Tourism Location: Antalya attracts more than 15 million visitors annually and is one of the 10 most visited coastal cities in the world. 70% of Saudi citizens travel to Europe during the summer months, but Turkey is rapidly increasing—primarily due to visa convenience, language similarities, and cultural proximity. A "Return Point" for Saudi Citizens: Saudi Arabia aims to increase its tourism revenue tenfold by 2030. Antalya is seen as the only place where Saudis can enjoy a unique yet Western-standard holiday. Demand for family tourism and luxury family vacations, in particular, is leading to high-budget projects. Exchange Rate Advantage & Affordable Luxury: The depreciation of the Turkish Lira creates a price advantage of up to 40-60% when purchasing in Saudi Riyal (SAR). The fact that a similar-quality villa can be purchased for $3 million in Dubai and $1.2 million in Antalya makes a "quick turnaround" strategy possible for investors. Property Sales and Citizenship Opportunity for Foreigners: Turkey grants Turkish citizenship for property purchases up to $400,000. This is a significant incentive for Saudi investors, both in terms of residency and global portfolio diversification. Wealthy families in Riyadh, in particular, want to bring their children's education and quality of life to Turkey. Saudi State Funds' New Target: PIF (Royal Investment Fund) and Red Sea Global are interested in luxury hotel, spa, golf, and marina projects in Antalya. Institutions such as Al Rajhi Bank and Saudi British Bank are holding discussions on housing financing and joint investment models in Antalya.    Note: In 2023, Saudi investors purchased a total of $1.2 billion in real estate in Antalya—a figure that could reach $2 billion by 2024.  Turkish Investors Returning to Saudi Arabia: This trend is twofold: Turkish real estate companies (e.g., Emlak Konut, Tebing Group, Beyaz Emlak) are now beginning to build luxury residential projects, business centers, and cultural venues in Riyadh, Jeddah, and the NEOM region. "Turkish Style" luxury residential designs—particularly villas with winter gardens, open-plan living rooms, and modern interior design with classic Ottoman details—are highly sought after in the Saudi market. Turkish companies are providing architectural consultancy and material supply for the Saudi government's cultural projects such as "Misk" and "Qiddiya." Future Perspective: Antalya-Riyadh Power A "Real Estate Cooperation Protocol" is being prepared between the two countries — joint investment funds will be established starting in 2025. Saudi investors are working on a "Saudi Family Village" model in Antalya: private schools, mosques, restaurants serving Saudi cuisine, and security systems that maintain a conservative standard of living. Turkey's "Global Tourism Hub" status aligns perfectly with Saudi Arabia's tourism vision — that's why Antalya has begun to be described as the "Mediterranean Coast of Arabia." Conclusion: A Regional Real Estate Alliance is Emerging Saudi Arabia's shift to Antalya is not just an investment trend — it's an economic, cultural, and geographical restructuring. Saudi investors: A safer, closer, more affordable luxury lifestyle is searching. Turkish developers: See the opportunity to expand into new markets and establish an international brand. Antalya: It is no longer just “Turkey’s coastal city,” it is becoming the Middle East’s second home.