Saudi Construction Index Hits 55.2 in July 2026

Saudi Arabia's construction activity index reached 55.2 in July 2026, its second-highest reading of the year and firmly in expansion territory above the 50 mark that separates growth from contraction. The figure points to continued momentum across the Kingdom's building sector.

The July performance was supported by three main segments: infrastructure, residential, and non-residential activity. Infrastructure was the strongest driver at 56.9, followed by residential building at 56.0, while non-residential activity registered 53.4. The mix reflects sustained demand for housing alongside heavy investment in large-scale infrastructure works.

Why it matters for residents

For residents and expats planning to build or renovate, the growth is closely tied to the day-to-day process of obtaining building permits, handled online through Balady using Unified National Access or أبشر login. The flow runs from logging in to Balady and selecting Building Permit Services, choosing the permit type, entering property and applicant details, submitting to the engineering office, paying the invoice, and finally receiving the permit electronically.

There is no single fixed national fee for the permit. The Balady platform states the service itself is free, with charges determined by the engineering office, whose rates are agreed separately with the beneficiary. The current FAQ also notes there is no fee difference between a standard excavation permit and a pre-coordinated excavation permit, and that the multi-coordination report is free of charge.

For support, Balady customer care is available on 199040 and municipality reports on 940. Riyadh Municipality lists a 24-hour response time for construction permit services, with self-services available around the clock. The steady expansion in the sector suggests continued activity in housing and infrastructure that will keep shaping neighbourhoods across the Kingdom.

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