Saudi Retail & Wholesale Revenue Index Up 3.2% in Q2 2026

Saudi Arabia's wholesale and retail trade sector recorded steady growth in the second quarter of 2026, as the general operating revenue index rose 3.2% compared with the same period of 2025. The figures were published as part of the national wholesale and retail trade and short-term business statistics for the year.

On a quarter-on-quarter basis, the index edged down 0.6% in Q2 2026 against the first quarter of the year, pointing to a modest seasonal dip despite the stronger annual performance.

Where growth came from

Retail trade (excluding motor vehicles and motorcycles) led the annual gains with a 5.2% rise in operating revenues. Wholesale trade (excluding motor vehicles and motorcycles) grew 0.8%, while motor vehicles and motorcycles sales and repair revenues increased 2.7% year-on-year.

Online activity was a standout, with e-commerce and online sales in the sector climbing 9.8% compared with Q2 2025 — a sign that Saudi shoppers are continuing to move more of their spending onto digital channels.

Why it matters for the community

The sector also saw its employee compensation index rise 9% year-on-year, driven largely by a 10.8% increase in compensation within retail trade. For residents and expats working in shops, wholesale outlets and delivery services, the numbers reflect a growing and increasingly digital marketplace across the Kingdom. For shoppers, it signals continued expansion in both physical stores and online retail options in Riyadh, Jeddah and beyond.

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