Company accommodation in Riyadh: a checklist before leasing a building

Start with headcount and occupancy pattern

Define expected headcount, length of stay and whether occupancy is stable or changes with projects. Then review rooms, bathrooms, service areas and internal distribution instead of relying on a headline capacity figure.

Stated capacity should align with the approved licence, room configuration and operating requirements. Separate what can physically fit from what the building is officially permitted to accommodate.

• Headcount at lease commencement and expected peak.
• Beds or occupants per room.
• Bathrooms and kitchenettes or officeettes.
• Laundry, storage and reception needs.

Check safety and permits before the final viewing

A collective-accommodation or Civil Defence licence is important, but its validity and alignment with the current building condition should be verified. Review the documents and physically inspect alarms, firefighting equipment, evacuation routes and exits.

If work is needed, agree who will complete it, who pays and how long it will take before the lease is signed.

Calculate operations, not rent alone

Compare the full annual cost: rent, furniture, maintenance, cleaning, security, electricity, water, transport and safety upgrades. This creates a fair comparison between buildings with different asking rents.

• Electricity and water meters and how consumption is charged.
• Water, drainage and surrounding services.
• Bus parking and employee access.
• Responsibility for routine and major maintenance.

Fix material terms in the lease

Clarify payment instalments, lease length, brokerage fee, deposit, fit-out period, maintenance responsibilities and handover process. If internal modifications are required, document the approved scope.

A complete checklist changes the viewing from a general visit into a structured inspection of every point affecting safe and efficient occupation.