Saudi TASI Leads Gulf Markets in 2026

Saudi Arabia's benchmark equities index, the Tadawul All Share Index (TASI), emerged as one of the strongest performers among Gulf markets during 2026, supported by solid corporate earnings in the banking and insurance sectors and steady foreign investment inflows.

TASI gained about 6.45% year-to-date in the first quarter, closing at 11,167 points on 31 March 2026. In the first four months of the year, the index rose roughly 6.6%, standing out as most other GCC benchmarks recorded mid- to low-single-digit declines. By mid-year the gain moderated to around 0.9–2.9%, yet the Saudi market remained among the top regional performers, second only to Oman's MSX 30. In August, TASI advanced about 5.1% for the month, taking its year-to-date gain to roughly 6.1% and making it the best-performing GCC benchmark that month.

The banking sector was a key contributor, posting around +2.9% at the sector level over the first six months, helped by elevated net interest margins, strong credit growth, robust capital positions, and demand for financing tied to major domestic projects. Leading listed lenders — including Saudi National Bank, Banque Saudi Fransi, Alinma Bank, Al Rajhi Bank, Bank Aljazira, Arab National Bank, and Saudi Awwal Bank — recorded notable price gains and solid earnings across the year.

The insurance sector delivered the strongest sectoral performance in the first half, rising about 23.6% and acting as a major driver of the market's outperformance. Analysts link the broader strength to progress on economic diversification projects tied to national development plans.

For residents and expats, a healthier local market reflects continued momentum in the wider economy and in project financing across the Kingdom. Trading in Saudi equities takes place on the Saudi Exchange (Tadawul) through licensed brokers, with domestic and foreign investors accessing the market via official electronic platforms integrated with national digital identity and regulatory systems.

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