Key Points
- FDI stock increases by 10% year-on-year
- Total foreign investment reaches $280 billion
- Energy, manufacturing and services remain the top sectors
- Vision 2030 reforms cited as key driver
ISLAMABAD: Foreign direct investment (FDI) in Saudi Arabia increased by 10 per cent to $280 billion, reflecting sustained global investor confidence in the Kingdom’s economic transformation and regulatory reforms, according to data released by the Saudi Central Bank.
The latest figures indicate a steady expansion in foreign capital inflows, supported by improved ‘ease of doing business’, large-scale infrastructure development, and diversification away from oil dependence.
The rise in FDI stock is part of a broader upward trend as Saudi Arabia positions itself as a regional investment hub.
According to an Arab News report, key recipient sectors of foreign investment include energy, petrochemicals, manufacturing, financial services, and logistics.
Authorities attribute the growth to structural reforms introduced under Vision 2030, including liberalised investment laws, targeted incentives for foreign firms, and the expansion of special economic zones.
Saudi Central Bank data reveal that both reinvested earnings and new equity inflows contributed to the increase, signalling longer-term investor commitment rather than short-term speculative activity.
Analysts note that continued progress on mega projects, privatisation initiatives, and capital market reforms is expected to strengthen foreign investment flows in the coming years.
