Saudi Arabia attracted about SAR 26.6 billion, or roughly $7.1 billion, in gross foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows during the first quarter of 2026, a rise of 2.4% compared with the same period a year earlier. The figures point to sustained international interest in the Kingdom's economy.
Net FDI inflows for the quarter stood at SAR 23.08 billion, a decrease of 2.4% year-on-year. Meanwhile, FDI outflows reached about SAR 3.5 billion during the same period, up 50.6% compared with the first quarter of the previous year.
Why it matters
Foreign direct investment is a key indicator of confidence in the Saudi market and plays a central role in the goals set under رؤية السعودية 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and expand the role of the private sector. Rising gross inflows suggest that international firms continue to see opportunities across the Kingdom.
The growth in outflows also reflects the increasingly two-way nature of Saudi investment activity, as capital moves both into and out of the country. For residents and businesses, steady investment figures generally support job creation, new projects, and expanding services across sectors.
Saudi Living will continue to follow updates on the Kingdom's investment performance and their impact on the local business landscape.
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