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A common scenario:
You purchased an off-plan property, and the promised delivery date passed over a year ago—with no handover, no compensation, and no response. Is your right lost? Absolutely not. Saudi law offers several tools to protect your rights as a buyer.

1. Start with the Contract

Review the signed agreement carefully. Look for:

• Specific delivery dates.
• Delay penalties or compensation clauses.
• The competent judicial authority mentioned.

If the developer failed to meet a clearly defined delivery date, it constitutes a breach of contract and gives you grounds for legal action.

2. File a Complaint via Wafi Platform

If the property was sold under the Wafi Off-Plan Sales Program (regulated by the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing), you can:

• Submit a formal complaint against the developer.
• Request government oversight of the project.
• Request to cancel the contract and recover your full payment.
• Or claim compensation for the delay.

3. File a Case in the Commercial Court

If the project is not under Wafi supervision or the developer is unresponsive, you can file a case before:

• The Commercial Court (if the developer is a registered company).
• Or the Real Estate Dispute Resolution Committee (if applicable).

You may request one of the following:

• Compel the developer to deliver the unit.
• Cancel the contract due to breach.
• Claim financial compensation for the losses incurred.

4. Submit an Online Enforcement Request via Najiz

If you hold a valid contract, visit the Najiz platform and follow these steps:

1. Select “Contract Enforcement Request”.
2. Attach a copy of the agreement.
3. Choose the enforcement type: financial or delivery.
4. An enforcement order will be issued within days.

Legal Alert:

Developer excuses such as “contractor issues” or “administrative delays” are not valid if the contract is clear and the buyer has made all payments. The buyer holds the legal upper hand in this case.

When to Use Each Legal Tool

Here’s how and when to apply each option:

• Contract review: Always the first step in any dispute.
• Wafi complaint: If the unit is registered under the off-plan program.
• Commercial case: If the developer defaults or doesn’t respond.
• Online enforcement: To speed up the process without lengthy court hearings.

Legal Tip for Future Purchases:

• Ensure the property is licensed and verified by relevant authorities.
• Review all contract terms carefully—especially the delay clause.
• Seek legal advice before signing any agreement.

A property purchase is not just an investment—it’s a long-term legal commitment that demands clarity from the start.

Also read:
Legal Steps to Terminate a Lease Early