Saudi Arabia's non-oil private sector recorded its strongest improvement in business conditions since February, as the Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) climbed to 55.3 in September 2026, up from 53.8 in August.
The reading marks the sixth consecutive month of improving conditions across the Kingdom's non-oil economy, a stretch that points to steady momentum heading into the final quarter of the year. Any figure above 50 signals expansion.
Growth was driven largely by a rise in new orders, which increased at their fastest pace since February. Firms responded by stepping up hiring and purchasing activity, both of which expanded more quickly during the month.
Why it matters
A faster rise in new work and employment is a positive sign for residents and job seekers across Riyadh, Jeddah, and other cities, reflecting rising demand in sectors outside oil. Stronger purchasing activity also suggests businesses are confident enough to build up stock and invest ahead of future demand.
One soft spot remained in external demand. Foreign orders declined for the seventh straight month, indicating that the latest gains were powered mainly by domestic demand rather than exports.
The sustained expansion aligns with wider efforts under Saudi Vision 2030 to diversify the economy and grow the non-oil private sector as a key engine of employment and activity.
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