Saudi FDI Inflows Rise 33.5% to SAR 159.1bn in 2025

Oct 28, 2026•2 min read

Saudi Arabia recorded a notable rise in foreign direct investment (FDI) during 2025, with inflows reaching SAR 159.1 billion, a 33.5% increase compared with SAR 119.2 billion in 2024. The figures point to growing investor confidence as the Kingdom continues to open its economy to international capital.

The total stock of foreign investment in the Kingdom reached SAR 1,058.8 billion by the end of 2025, up 8.3% year-on-year. Net FDI flows stood at SAR 81.4 billion, a modest 1.7% rise from SAR 80.0 billion the year before.

A simpler path for investors

Much of the momentum follows the updated Investment Law, which took effect on 12 February 2025 and applies equally to Saudi and foreign investors. Under the new framework, foreign investors generally register with وزارة الاستثمار before beginning their activities, replacing the former standalone investment licence.

After receiving registration notification, an investor can proceed to obtain a commercial registration and any sector-specific licences from the relevant authorities. Activities classified as restricted or prohibited still require additional review or approvals from وزارة الاستثمار.

For those setting up companies, the Ministry of Commerce lists establishment service fees of SAR 1,200 for a limited liability company and SAR 1,600 for a joint-stock or simplified joint-stock company, with a stated service duration of up to 72 hours.

For residents and expats considering starting a business in the Kingdom, the streamlined process reflects a broader push under رؤية السعودية 2030 to make the market more accessible and to attract long-term investment across sectors.

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