Article 16 of the Saudi State Leasing of Real Estate Law

This article deals with the procedures for handing the property over to the lessor after vacating or at the end of the contract, and what happens if he does not attend.

1- Notification: the leasing agency notifies the lessor to attend to take over the property, through the portal or by any other means set by the regulations, after vacating or at the end of the contract. The notification sets a handover date within a period of not less than fifteen days from the date of notification, unless the lessor acknowledges that he knows the handover date. The period is thus a protection for the lessor, and does not apply if he acknowledges knowing the date.

2- Non-attendance: if the lessor or his representative does not attend at the set time:

• The agency's representative signs a report to that effect, jointly with a representative of the Emirate, governorate or center.
• The keys of the property are handed to the Emirate, governorate or center.

Effects after the date of signing this report:

• The agency's responsibility is considered ended.
• No rent is paid for any period after this date.
• The agency is not responsible for any damage that occurs to the property afterwards.

The lessor's delay in attending therefore does not make the agency liable for rent indefinitely. If the lessor attends, handover is by report under Article 15. Article 17 regulates the survey of damage resulting from abnormal use and the assessment of compensation.

If you have a practical question about leasing a property to a government agency, it is best to consult a lawyer who specializes in real estate or administrative cases.