Saudi Industrial Establishments Reach 13,870 by May 2026

Saudi Arabia's industrial sector continued its expansion in the spring of 2026, with the number of industrial establishments holding valid licences reaching 13,660 by the end of April. The figure covers factories that are both operational and still under construction, rather than producing plants alone.

During April 2026, authorities issued 322 new industrial licences tied to investments exceeding SAR 12.33 billion. In the same month, 188 factories began production, representing around SAR 2.01 billion in investment and creating approximately 3,606 jobs.

The growth carried into the following month. By the end of May 2026, the total number of establishments had risen to 13,870, a count that included operational, under-construction, and stalled factories alike.

How an industrial licence works

A new industrial licence is issued electronically. Investors log in to the ministry's electronic services portal, submit their project information and required documents, complete the application, and receive the licence electronically after review. The initial licence is valid for one year and allows the investor to complete the requirements for setting up the facility, but it does not by itself authorize production. Through renewal, the licence's validity can be extended for up to five years, provided the ministry's requirements are met.

For residents and business owners across Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and beyond, the steady rise in licensed factories signals continued momentum in the Kingdom's push to diversify its economy under رؤية السعودية 2030. More operating plants mean more local manufacturing, additional job opportunities, and a widening base of goods produced within Saudi Arabia.

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