Ehkam Platform: Your Authenticated Solution for Proving Real Estate Ownership in Saudi Arabia
Many Saudis own real estate or land without official documented deeds—especially older inherited properties. This is where the Ehkam platform comes in, a government initiative under the Ministry of Justice, designed to resolve real estate ownership proof issues in an official and legal manner.
In this article, we’ll explain what Ehkam is, the services it offers, and how you can benefit from it to document your real estate assets.
What is the Ehkam Platform?
Ehkam is one of the initiatives launched by the Saudi Ministry of Justice as part of the National Transformation Program and Vision 2030. Its primary goal is to address real estate ownership proof requests for individuals who lack official deeds—whether for old properties, inherited land, or disputed assets. The platform is supervised by committees called “Ehkam Committees”, which include judges and real estate specialists.
Main Services
- Proving property ownership without a deed: You can submit a request to prove your ownership of a property or land that lacks an official deed.
- Correcting property statuses: If there’s an error in property boundaries or area, you can submit a correction request.
- Resolving real estate disputes: In cases of property ownership disputes, Ehkam committees review the case and issue a binding decision.
- Transferring inherited properties: Simplifying the process of transferring ownership to heirs after inheritance deeds are issued.
- Electronic linkage with government entities: The platform is linked with the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, as well as the Notary Public, to expedite procedures.
Steps to Apply on the Ehkam Platform
- Access the Platform: Via the website ehkam.gov.sa or the “Ehkam” mobile app.
- Create an Account: Through the National Unified Access (Absher).
- Fill Out the Application: Enter property details (location, area, boundaries, photos, and coordinates).
- Attach Documents: Any documents proving your possession or ownership (old sale contracts, aerial photos, witness statements, old utility receipts).
- Review and Decision: The relevant committee studies the application, may request additional documents if needed, and then issues its decision.
- Obtain the Deed: After approval, you can obtain an official deed from the Notary Public.
Benefits of the Ehkam Platform for Citizens
First, it protects you from lengthy legal disputes—rather than spending years in court, Ehkam committees review your request and issue a decision within months. Second, the platform helps document unregistered properties, which can be worth billions of riyals. Third, it prevents encroachment on others’ properties and protects the rights of heirs and minors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is the Ehkam platform free?
A: Yes, submitting an application is completely free. However, fees for obtaining the deed from the Notary Public may apply.
Q: What’s the difference between Ehkam and regular Ministry of Justice deeds?
A: Ehkam is designed for cases where there are no official deeds at all or for old properties with incomplete documentation. Regular deeds are for properties registered in the system.
Q: How long does it take to process an application?
A: Processing time varies depending on the complexity of the case. Simple requests may be completed within two months, while complex cases can take up to 6 months.
Q: Can I appeal an Ehkam committee decision?
A: Yes, you have the right to appeal the committee’s decision in the Administrative Court within 60 days of receiving the decision.
Q: Does Ehkam cover commercial properties?
A: Yes, the platform covers residential, commercial, and agricultural properties alike.
The Ehkam platform is a significant step toward organizing Saudi Arabia’s real estate market and protecting property owners’ rights. If you own a property without an official deed, don’t hesitate to use the platform—the solution is closer than you think.
