Fractional Property Ownership in Saudi Arabia: Ghanem on Zero to One
What does buying part of an income-producing property involve? In “Saleh Al-Ghamdi, Ghanem | Podcast at LEAP,” Zero to One (صفر لواحد) interviews Ghanem co-founder and CEO Saleh Al-Ghamdi about fractional property ownership and Saudi real estate technology.
This article summarises the discussion rather than reproducing its transcript. We thank Zero to One for sharing the conversation and enriching Arabic content on entrepreneurship and real estate investment.
Watch the full episode. The cover is the episode’s original YouTube thumbnail from Zero to One.
What is fractional property ownership?
Al-Ghamdi describes purchasing a share of a specific property instead of buying the entire asset. In the Ghanem model discussed, ownership is documented through the Real Estate Registry, with rental income allocated according to the investor’s share and the opportunity’s terms.
A smaller entry amount can make it easier to spread capital across properties. Diversification does not eliminate losses, however, and a registered ownership interest does not guarantee either its resale value or a return.
How are properties checked and valued?
The interview describes checks covering the title deed, the owner’s identity, government documents, leases and the property’s condition. Al-Ghamdi also explains using two accredited valuers and setting the offering price at or below their average valuation.
These checks help explain the basis of an offering price. A valuation remains an estimate at a particular date, not a guaranteed future sale price. Tenant quality, location and operating costs also matter when assessing a property.
Where does rental income come from, and what about fees?
The property’s leases generate operating income. Al-Ghamdi describes Ghanem’s business model at the time of recording as including a brokerage fee at subscription and a share of rental income for services.
Investors should compare expected net income after fees and expenses, rather than gross rent alone. The distribution history discussed in the episode describes past experience; it does not promise that future payments will continue unchanged.
Can an investor exit immediately?
The interview distinguishes ownership from liquidity. Al-Ghamdi discusses work on digital trading and exits, while noting that automation was still being developed with the regulator at the time. He also explains an opportunity-level voting process for decisions to sell a property.
Discussion of a secondary market should therefore not be read as a promise of instant resale. Review the expected holding period, transfer procedures, fees and sale-decision rules before investing. Finding a buyer can take time.
Is the model limited to large properties?
The conversation considers possible applications across apartments, villas and office developments. Al-Ghamdi reports interest in commercial, industrial and logistics assets, as well as enquiries from family offices and endowments.
These are observations from the company’s experience, not a comprehensive market survey or an announcement that every category is available. A property ownership share also differs from a time-limited usufruct right; the documentation defines what each product provides.
How does AI fit into Saudi PropTech?
Al-Ghamdi describes an internal AI agent used to retrieve company knowledge, alongside automation of repeated tasks. He also identifies opportunities in property management, facilities management and specialised real estate services, emphasising trust and the importance of a suitable team.
What should investors take away?
Fractional ownership changes access to property, but due diligence remains essential. Ask four questions: What exactly will I own? How was the price determined? What is the expected net income? How can I exit?
Learn more about Ghanem, read the FAQs, and consult current opportunity documents. Operational details and development plans discussed here reflect the recording period and may change. Watch the original Zero to One interview for the complete context.