Saudi FDI Hits Record; RHQ Licences Top Target

Saudi Arabia recorded one of its strongest years yet for foreign direct investment, with net FDI inflows in 2025 estimated at roughly SAR 133–149 billion — a double-digit increase over 2024 and a record or near-record level under رؤية السعودية 2030. The gains were driven largely by multinational companies expanding their regional presence and major manufacturing commitments.

Cumulative FDI inflows since the launch of رؤية السعودية 2030 reached about SAR 524 billion by March 2026, with monthly inflows in early 2026 ranging between SAR 11 billion and SAR 15 billion.

Regional headquarters programme exceeds its target

The regional headquarters (RHQ) programme has already surpassed its target of 500 licences, reaching around 580–680 licences by mid-2026. Licences are issued by وزارة الاستثمار through its investor electronic services and investment service centres.

For businesses, the process is designed to be quick. A company submits its RHQ application and corporate details online, pays an initial service fee of SAR 10,000 plus a SAR 2,000 licence fee in the first year, and can receive the licence within two to three working days. The licence is valid for one to five years and is renewed by paying the SAR 2,000 annual fee. Qualifying small and medium enterprises may pay a reduced investor-service subscription of SAR 10,000

After a licence is issued, the multinational's Saudi entity must register with the Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, while staffing matters — including work permits and employment contracts — are handled through قوى.

For the community, the expansion means more corporate jobs, wider services and stronger business activity across the Kingdom, particularly for expat professionals working with international firms setting up in الرياض and other cities.

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