Lawyer Exposes Fraudulent Tactics to Evade White Land Fees in Saudi Arabia
RIYADH – A lawyer, Khaled Al-Hajjaj, has revealed common methods used by some landowners to avoid paying fees on undeveloped “white land” in Saudi Arabia, warning that such practices will not go unpunished, according to a report by Al-Marsad newspaper.
Speaking on the “Saudi arabia” channel, al-Hajjaj detailed how some landowners are attempting to circumvent the system by leasing land under agreements known as “Dry Tro” for minimal fees.
However, Al-Hajjaj clarified that the system provides legitimate avenues for exemption. Landowners unable to develop their property can apply for a one-year deferral to allow for construction of a residence and obtain a completion certificate, thereby cancelling the fee. Projects requiring longer timelines can apply to a specialized committee for an exemption period aligned with an approved advancement plan and engineering reports.
Al-Hajjaj cautioned that continued fraudulent activity will lead to stricter enforcement measures to safeguard public interests. He emphasized that authorities are closely monitoring the market and possess extensive data. New fee invoices reflecting updated pricing will be issued in January.
