Security Deposits & Return in Saudi Arabia
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Saudi royal decrees, regulations, and ministerial decisions. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Security deposits are common in Saudi rentals, and the Ejar system provides a framework for managing them:
- Amount: There is no statutory cap, but deposits are typically one to two months' rent.
- Ejar documentation: The deposit amount and return conditions should be documented in the Ejar contract — this makes it enforceable through the Enforcement Court.
- Purpose: The deposit covers damage beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, or unpaid utilities at the end of the tenancy.
- Return: The landlord must return the deposit (minus legitimate deductions) at the end of the lease after a property inspection.
- Disputes: If the landlord refuses to return your deposit without justification, you can file a claim through the Enforcement Court (Tanfeedh) via the Najiz platform.
When does it apply?
- Your landlord requires a security deposit before you move in.
- You are moving out and want your deposit returned.
- Your landlord is making deductions from your deposit that you believe are unfair.
What to Do If Your Landlord Refuses to Return Your Security Deposit in Saudi Arabia
- Ensure the deposit is documented in your Ejar contract — the amount, conditions for deduction, and return timeline should all be in writing.
- Document the property thoroughly at move-in and move-out with dated photos, videos, and a written checklist.
- Request a written breakdown of any deductions — do not accept vague claims of "damage."
- If unfairly withheld, file a claim through the Najiz platform to the Enforcement Court — your Ejar contract makes this a streamlined process.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not pay a deposit without it being recorded in Ejar — an undocumented cash deposit is almost impossible to recover through the courts.
- Do not skip the move-in inspection — without photos and documentation, you cannot prove pre-existing damage.
- Do not withhold final rent as a substitute for the deposit — this gives the landlord grounds for eviction proceedings.
Common Questions
When does it apply — security deposits & return?
Your landlord requires a security deposit before you move in.You are moving out and want your deposit returned.Your landlord is making deductions from your deposit that you believe are unfair.
What should I do if my landlord is withholding my security deposit without valid reason in Saudi Arabia?
Ensure the deposit is documented in your Ejar contract — the amount, conditions for deduction, and return timeline should all be in writing.Document the property thoroughly at move-in and move-out with dated photos, videos, and a written checklist.Request a written breakdown of any deductions — do not accept vague claims of "damage."If unfairly withheld, file a claim through the Najiz platform to the Enforcement Court — your Ejar contract makes this a streamlined process.
What should you NOT do — security deposits & return?
Do not pay a deposit without it being recorded in Ejar — an undocumented cash deposit is almost impossible to recover through the courts.Do not skip the move-in inspection — without photos and documentation, you cannot prove pre-existing damage.Do not withhold final rent as a substitute for the deposit — this gives the landlord grounds for eviction proceedings.