While Bali continues to shine as a global hotspot for land investment, savvy investors are looking east — toward Sumba, an island that’s quickly becoming one of the best places to invest in land in Indonesia. With pristine beaches, low land prices, and government-backed infrastructure development, land for sale in Sumba represents an exciting and under-the-radar opportunity in 2025.
Whether you’re considering expanding your portfolio or seeking an early-stage, high-growth market, here’s why buying land in Indonesia, specifically in Sumba, should be on your radar.
Why Sumba Is Emerging as a Prime Investment Destination
Sumba, part of East Nusa Tenggara, is often referred to as “Bali 30 years ago.” Its untouched landscapes, traditional culture, and lack of overdevelopment are exactly what make it attractive to investors seeking safe land investments abroad. In recent years, the island has caught the attention of both government and private sectors, with property investment in Indonesia gradually extending beyond the more saturated Bali and Lombok markets.
Key reasons to invest include:
- Affordable tropical land for sale, especially compared to Bali and Flores
- Growing demand for eco-tourism and sustainable development
- Clearer government support for regional infrastructure and tourism
- Rising interest in beachfront land for sale from international boutique resort developers
Infrastructure Is Catching Up — Fast
Infrastructure development is one of the clearest indicators of a region’s investment potential. Sumba has seen major upgrades in the past five years, including:
- Tambolaka and Umbu Mehang Kunda Airports now serving direct domestic flights, connecting Sumba with Bali and Jakarta
- Road paving and expansion projects funded by regional government
- Improved access to coastal regions and remote inland villages
- New hotel and resort developments in West and East Sumba, including luxury brands like Nihi Sumba, ranked among the best hotels in the world
Just like Bali’s infrastructure boom led to skyrocketing land value (explored in our article How Bali’s Tourism and Infrastructure Boost Land Value), Sumba is now at the beginning of that same curve.
The Legal Landscape: What Foreigners Need to Know
Buying land in Indonesia as a foreigner is entirely possible — but requires understanding the legal framework. The same rules that apply in Bali apply in Sumba:
- Leasehold land in Indonesia is available for foreigners via long-term agreements (typically 25–30 years, extendable)
- To access freehold land in Indonesia, foreigners must establish a PT PMA (foreign-owned company) — a common legal structure for land ownership and development
- Always conduct due diligence: check zoning regulations, land certificates (Hak Milik or HGB), and ensure no overlapping claims
For more insights, visit our article What to Know Before Buying Land in Bali as a Foreigner — much of the advice applies to Sumba as well.
High ROI Potential in an Undervalued Market
Sumba’s low entry costs and growth potential make it one of the most promising high ROI land investments in Indonesia today. Consider the following:
- Beachfront land in Sumba can be acquired for up to 70% less than comparable land in Bali or Lombok
- Interest from boutique eco-resorts and wellness retreats is growing rapidly
- The island’s remote beauty appeals to the increasing number of travelers seeking authenticity and seclusion
These factors are attracting early-stage developers looking for emerging property markets in Indonesia, especially those focused on low-density, sustainable tourism projects.
Where to Look: Investment Hotspots in Sumba
Sumba offers diverse landscapes, and each region has something different for investors.
West Sumba’s south coast, near the famous Nihi Sumba resort, is ideal for luxury eco-retreats. Think white sand beaches, world-class surf, and growing demand for boutique accommodations.
East Sumba is more rural and traditional — perfect for those looking to create cultural stays, wellness escapes, or larger land projects at a lower cost.
Waingapu, the island’s main town, is the gateway to Sumba. It’s close to the airport and port, making it a smart choice for residential or commercial developments.
Lamboya and Kodi, on the remote western edges, are wild, untouched, and still very affordable. These are great spots for long-term investment or off-grid concepts.
Is Land Investment in Sumba Safe?
Like anywhere in Indonesia, land ownership involves navigating bureaucracy and local customs — but land investment in Sumba is increasingly supported by clearer processes and legal transparency. Still, as with any region, it’s crucial to:
- Work with trusted notaries and legal advisors
- Understand foreign ownership rules in Indonesia
- Follow a step-by-step land buying process to secure titles and permits
Need guidance? Our Guide to Buying Land in Indonesia outlines everything you need to know, from first contact to final signature.
Is Land Investment in Sumba Safe?
Like anywhere in Indonesia, land ownership involves navigating bureaucracy and local customs — but land investment in Sumba is increasingly supported by clearer processes and legal transparency. Still, as with any region, it’s crucial to:
- Work with trusted notaries and legal advisors
- Understand foreign ownership rules in Indonesia
- Follow a step-by-step land buying process to secure titles and permits
Need guidance? Our Guide to Buying Land in Indonesia outlines everything you need to know, from first contact to final signature.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for untapped potential, low competition, and affordable land prices, Sumba is the next big land investment opportunity in Indonesia. With its natural beauty, expanding infrastructure, and growing tourism sector, the island offers a chance to get ahead of the curve — especially for investors looking for tropical land for sale in high-growth, sustainable markets.