Saudi council reviews plan to cut expat fees in construction

A member of Shoura Council has proposed studying the removal of fees imposed on expatriate workers in the construction sector, a move aimed at reducing housing costs and boosting real estate development in Saudi Arabia.

The proposal was presented during a council session chaired by Speaker Abdullah Al-Sheikh. Council member Raeda Abu Nayan called on the Ministry of Commerce to coordinate with relevant authorities to examine the feasibility of abolishing such fees.

She argued that reducing costs for construction companies could help lower housing prices for citizens while encouraging investment in the property sector. The proposal is seen as part of broader efforts to improve affordability and stimulate economic activity.

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During the same session, council member Khalid Al-Buraik urged the Ministry of Commerce to ensure that car dealerships maintain adequate stocks of spare parts. He also called for faster diagnostic and repair services to enhance customer satisfaction.

Other members highlighted additional economic priorities. Asim Madkhali advocated for the establishment of specialised agricultural production and marketing companies to support small farmers and improve food security. Meanwhile, Hassan Al-Hazmi praised efforts to combat commercial concealment and counterfeit goods.

Turki Al-Anzi proposed creating a smart national platform to manage commercial contracts for small and medium-sized enterprises, aiming to strengthen the business environment.

The discussions reflect ongoing policy considerations to enhance economic diversification, improve consumer protection, and support sustainable growth across key sectors in Saudi Arabia.