Saudi Arabia’s foreign direct investment stock hits $218bn in Q1

Saudi Arabia’s foreign direct investment stock hits $218bn in Q1
Saudi Arabia has seen positive annual growth in investments, positioning itself as an attractive destination for international investors. (SPA)
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Updated 21 July 2024
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Saudi Arabia’s foreign direct investment stock hits $218bn in Q1

Saudi Arabia’s foreign direct investment stock hits $218bn in Q1
  • Growth reflects increasing confidence among foreign investors in the Saudi investment ecosystem

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s foreign direct investment stock reached SR817.7 billion ($218 billion) in the first quarter of 2024, marking a 6.1 percent rise compared to the same period last year, recent data showed.

A report released by the Ministry of Investment indicated that this growth reflects increasing confidence among foreign investors in the Saudi investment ecosystem.

The FDI stock represents the total accumulated value of FDIs held in the Kingdom. It is a cumulative measure that includes all past and present investments made by foreign entities in businesses, real estate, and other assets within the country.

The ministry had previously reported that inflows in the first quarter amounted to approximately SR17 billion, reflecting a growth of 0.6 percent compared to the SR16.9 billion recorded in the same period of 2023.

Brendan Marais, partner at Kearney Middle East & Africa told Arab News that “one of the key factors that sets Saudi Arabia apart from other emerging markets is its deliberate focus on building FDI-attraction capabilities.”

“This strategic approach has significantly boosted the market’s confidence in the Kingdom’s creditworthiness. The $12 billion raised from the sale of multiple-tenor bonds at the beginning of the year and its rise to the third position in the 2024 Kearney FDI Confidence Index from 2023 are clear indicators of the success of these efforts,” he added.

The Kingdom aims to attract $100 billion in FDI by 2030 as part of its broader economic diversification efforts under Vision 2030. Despite global economic challenges, including geopolitical tensions and high interest rates impacting FDI flows worldwide, Saudi Arabia has seen positive annual growth in investments, positioning itself as an attractive destination for international investors.

The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development latest data indicated that global FDI continued to decline by 12 percent in 2023 compared to the previous year. In contrast, investments into OECD countries increased by 11 percent during the same period, while those into G20 countries decreased by 34 percent. 

Saudi Arabia has successfully built credibility with the international investment community and is well positioned to achieve its ambitious target of $100 billion of FDI by 2030.

Elvie Lahournere, Principal at Kearney Middle East & Africa

Meanwhile, FDI inflows in Saudi Arabia grew by 12.1 percent annually, reaching SR72 billion in 2023, excluding the Aramco deal.

Saudi Arabia continues to enhance its attractiveness by improving business laws, fostering human capital development, and nurturing a competitive environment for innovation, which are essential in sustaining its FDI growth trajectory.

Kingdom’s approach navigating global challenges

Rudolph Lohmeyer, partner at Kearney Middle East & Africa, said, “For countries, this global instability is spurring efforts to strengthen national resilience and reduce exposure to economic coercion, including by developing national economic capabilities and diversifying global supply networks.”

“FDI is a strategically central means of meeting both of these imperatives and nowhere are we seeing more decisive efforts to enhance FDI attraction than in the GCC,” he added

Lohmeyer told Arab News that as global instability and competition increase, and investors seek safer, geopolitically stable countries, the Kingdom’s priorities will continue to evolve from its strong, long-term foundations.

“Specifically, stabilizing the region geopolitically represents a central imperative. The Kingdom’s balanced geopolitical positioning and bold diplomatic efforts are clearly geared to this end,” he added.

He also noted that deepening its role as a regional and global hub will enhance Saudi Arabia’s attractiveness to investors by expanding its market. Additionally, as technology and AI transform productivity and the global economy, the Kingdom must foster a competitive environment for innovation. 

Houssem Jemili of Bain and Co. mentioned to Arab News in April that Saudi Arabia leads technology spending in the Middle East and North Africa, investing roughly 2.5 times more than other countries in the region, with annual growth in this expenditure.

According to the ministry’s report in May, this was further demonstrated by innovation and entrepreneurship attracting a range of funding partners to Saudi Arabia, leading to the completion of over 53 percent of investment deals in the first quarter of 2024.

Role of human capital in driving FDI

Marco Vasconi, partner at Kearney Middle East & Africa said, “Investment in human capital development is imperative to drive overall investment, including FDI, and economic growth.”

“As such, human capital is one of the key levers inputs into economic activities, especially in knowledge-intensive sectors, which underpins the development and growth of some of the sectors prioritized for Saudi Arabia’s economy,” he added.

Vasconi noted that the Kingdom is concentrating on two key areas for human capital development, enhancing domestic talent and attracting global professionals to Saudi Arabia.

Domestic efforts include overhauling the entire human capital development journey, from early childhood through K-12 to higher education, technical and vocational training, and lifelong learning. 

Stabilizing the region geopolitically represents a central imperative. The Kingdom’s balanced geopolitical positioning and bold diplomatic efforts are clearly geared to this end.

Rudolph Lohmeyer, Partner at Kearney Middle East & Africa

According to the expert, there is a strong emphasis on both basic skills and advanced thinking skills, such as critical and system thinking, as well as future-oriented skills to meet evolving requirements.

The education and training systems are being aligned with labor market needs to enhance employability and address future job demands. Additionally, there is a concerted push to up-skill and reskill the existing workforce to adapt to the changing workplace environment.

Efforts to attract global talent include enhancing Saudi Arabia’s appeal as a place to live and work through improved access to education, healthcare, and vibrant cultural life.

Additionally, the Kingdom is simplifying entry for skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors while offering a robust ecosystem of economic and business opportunities.

FDI target of $100 billion by 2030

Elvie Lahournere, principal at Kearney Middle East & Africa said, “Saudi Arabia has successfully built credibility with the international investment community and is well positioned to achieve its ambitious target of $100 billion of FDI by 2030.”

Lahournere stressed the Kingdom’s geographic advantages, a young and educated population, a large local market, and growing regional integration in helping it achieve its ambitious target.

“In fact, we already see tangible outcomes from investors’ perspective in this year FDI Confidence Index world ranking that positioned Saudi Arabia at the 14th place rising from 24th last year and demonstrating the investor’s appetite for this vibrant emerging market,” she added.

Saudi Arabia has revamped its business laws to attract foreign investment by allowing 100 percent foreign ownership, establishing a dispute settlement regime, enacting a bankruptcy law, implementing digital licensing procedures, and offering fiscal incentives like zero personal income tax and a 20 percent flat corporate levy, the lowest in the G20.


OPEC+ moves to set 2027 production baselines

OPEC+ moves to set 2027 production baselines
Updated 28 May 2025
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OPEC+ moves to set 2027 production baselines

OPEC+ moves to set 2027 production baselines

RIYADH: OPEC+ announced on Wednesday that it will establish a framework to determine new oil production baselines for 2027, marking a significant step in its long-term planning, said an official statement.

The alliance — comprising the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and partners including Russia—has been negotiating revised production baselines for several years. These baselines serve as reference points from which member states adjust their output levels.

According to the statement issued following the group’s meeting, said it had tasked the OPEC Secretariat with developing a mechanism to assess each country’s maximum production capacity. These assessments will form the basis for 2027 production targets across all member nations.

Since 2022, the group has implemented three tiers of output cuts. Two remain in place through the end of 2026, while the third is being gradually phased out by eight participating countries. No changes were made to the group’s current production policy at Wednesday’s session.

Due to the sensitive nature of the discussions, all sources spoke on condition of anonymity.

The 2027 baselines, once finalized, are expected to guide production policy after the current round of cuts expires.

Oil prices, which dipped below $60 per barrel in April—the lowest level in four years—following OPEC+’s decision to accelerate May output and amid trade tensions triggered by US tariffs, have since rebounded to around $65.


Saudi Arabia launches advanced manufacturing center to boost industrial innovation

Saudi Arabia launches advanced manufacturing center to boost industrial innovation
Updated 28 May 2025
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Saudi Arabia launches advanced manufacturing center to boost industrial innovation

Saudi Arabia launches advanced manufacturing center to boost industrial innovation

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia has launched the Advanced Manufacturing and Production Center, a key initiative aimed at accelerating the Kingdom’s industrial transformation through the adoption of advanced technologies and sustainable practices.

Unveiled on May 28, the center is set to play a central role in promoting efficiency, flexibility, and growth within the manufacturing sector. It will utilize technologies associated with the Fourth Industrial Revolution to localize production and enhance Saudi Arabia’s competitiveness on the global stage.

The initiative also supports strategic industries while aligning with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, the country’s long-term plan to diversify its economy. A major focus is encouraging private sector collaboration to speed up the integration of emerging technologies into industrial operations.

The launch supports the National Industrial Strategy, introduced in October 2022, which aims to increase the number of factories in the Kingdom to approximately 36,000 by 2035. The strategy is designed to attract investment, scale up local production, and strengthen non-oil exports.

The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources is overseeing several projects to advance the Kingdom’s industrial and logistical infrastructure, positioning Saudi Arabia as a key player in global manufacturing and trade.

“Adopting the latest industrial technologies raises the efficiency of our industrial sector and enhances its competitiveness regionally and globally,” said Khalil bin Ibrahim bin Salamah, deputy minister of industry and mineral resources for industrial affairs, in a post shared by the ministry on X.

In an accompanying video, the ministry reiterated the center’s significance in meeting national goals: “The Advanced Manufacturing and Production Center opens doors to industrial investment opportunities and stimulates the sector to adopt new manufacturing technologies within industrial facilities.”

The center is supported by several initiatives and programs, including the Future Factories Program, which aims to modernize 4,000 factories across the Kingdom. The FFP focuses on integrating advanced manufacturing systems to boost efficiency and build more resilient supply chains—particularly in critical sectors such as food and petrochemicals.

According to its official website, the center serves as a hub for industrial innovation, providing consultancy services, training, and technological solutions. It is dedicated to fostering sustainability and competitiveness across the manufacturing sector.

Through these efforts, the center is expected to significantly contribute to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals by localizing high-tech capabilities, attracting investment, and advancing the industrial sector’s role in the nation’s economic diversification.


Closing Bell: Saudi main index rises to close at 11,052

Closing Bell: Saudi main index rises to close at 11,052
Updated 28 May 2025
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Closing Bell: Saudi main index rises to close at 11,052

Closing Bell: Saudi main index rises to close at 11,052

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul All Share Index advanced on Wednesday, closing higher by 127.58 points, or 1.17 percent, to reach 11,052.76, reflecting broad market optimism.

Trading activity remained robust, with a total turnover of SR4.57 billion ($1.21 billion). Of the listed stocks, 202 posted gains while 44 declined.

The Kingdom’s parallel market, Nomu, also recorded gains, rising 340.91 points, or 1.28 percent, to close at 26,932.95. The market saw 48 advancing stocks against 34 decliners.

Meanwhile, the MSCI Tadawul 30 Index climbed 15.12 points, or 1.08 percent, ending the session at 1,413.70.

Fawaz Abdulaziz Alhokair Co. emerged as the session’s top performer, with its share price jumping 5.77 percent to SR16.50.

Ataa Educational Co. and Kingdom Holding Co. followed closely, gaining 5.46 percent and 5.22 percent to close at SR61.80 and SR8.66, respectively.

On the downside, United Carton Industries Co. registered the steepest decline, falling 4.87 percent to SR46.85. Banan Real Estate Co. dropped 2.4 percent to SR4.48, while Nama Chemicals Co. slipped 1.78 percent to SR27.55.

On the announcements front, Saudi AZM for Communication and Information Technology Co. disclosed it has submitted a request to transfer its listing to the main market.

Additionally, the initial public offering for Flynas Co. began on May 28 and will conclude on June 1. The offering is priced at SR80 per share, with a retail tranche comprising 10.25 million shares. According to a statement, BSF Capital is the lead manager.

Alkathiri Holding Co. announced that its subsidiary has signed a 50-year lease agreement valued at SR143 million with the Asir Region Municipality to develop a commercial and hospitality project in the city of Abha.

According to a statement published on the Saudi stock exchange, the project will feature a four-star hotel with a capacity of 180 keys, alongside retail and entertainment facilities. The development aims to boost tourism and enhance commercial services in the Asir region.

The lease will officially begin upon the land handover by the Investment Committee of the Asir Region Municipality.

Shares of Alkathiri Holding closed Wednesday’s trading session at SR2.06, marking a 1.96 percent gain.

In a separate disclosure, Mufeed Co. announced that its board of directors has recommended to the ordinary general assembly the transfer of its statutory reserve balance — totaling SR3.49 million, as reported in the financial statements for the year ended Dec. 31, 2024 —to retained earnings.


Saudi Arabia’s Asir region revitalizes 95% of stalled projects

Saudi Arabia’s Asir region revitalizes 95% of stalled projects
Updated 28 May 2025
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Saudi Arabia’s Asir region revitalizes 95% of stalled projects

Saudi Arabia’s Asir region revitalizes 95% of stalled projects
  • Asir is a vast region in the Kingdom with a population exceeding 2 million people
  • Interest from global players seeking early opportunities in the region’s evolving landscape has grown

ABHA: Saudi Arabia’s Asir region has successfully revitalized 95 percent of its previously delayed project, an important milestone that is strengthening investor confidence as the region moves forward with SR29 billion ($7.73 billion) worth of initiatives across various sectors.

In an interview with Arab News, Hashim Al-Dabbagh, CEO of Asir Region Development Authority, stated that a dedicated committee, chaired by Asir Gov. Prince Turki bin Talal, was formed several years ago to tackle long-standing investment challenges that had stalled progress in the region.

“The total number of cases that have been brought to this committee to address has been 63, all brought to the table,” Al-Dabbagh said.

He continued: “Of these 63 cases that have been brought to this committee to address and to solve, 60 cases have been solved, and three are in the pipeline right now, and they’re working on them, and they’re going to solve them relatively soon.”

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Of the 60 resolved, 57 were concluded with outcomes that satisfied investors, reflecting a resolution rate of nearly 95 percent.

“This committee and the work that they have done has created some very positive vibes across the investment ecosystem in Saudi Arabia, which you sense in this forum because there are some very large investors that are coming to Asir, some coming back to Asir which had not been interested in this region in the past,” Al-Dabbagh said.

The board operates in collaboration with various public and private entities, including ASDA, the Ministry of Investment, the Ministry of Tourism, the Tourism Development Fund, and King Khalid University, ensuring a unified approach to accelerating investor activity in the region.

This resolution mechanism plays a key role in supporting the region’s development strategy, which focuses on unlocking investment potential across various sectors.

“First of all, we have a strategy that drives everything that we are doing,” Al-Dabbagh said.

He added: “The strategy has been approved by the center of government, and it says that Asir should be a year-round preeminent destination, so already we know that we need to focus on the tourism sector and complementary and adjacent sectors to the tourism sector. That’s one, and that gives us a lot of momentum in working with the government ecosystem and the private sector.”

Al-Dabbagh emphasized that Asir is more than just a tourism destination, noting that it is a vast region in the Kingdom with a population exceeding 2 million people.

“Within the Asir Development Authority, we have a whole department called Economic Development Department, and they are working diligently this year on sectoral studies across the board.”

He added: “This includes, obviously, tourism-related sectors, but also other ones, so just as an example, we are looking at sports, we are looking at construction. We’re looking at fisheries and agriculture. We’re looking at renewable energy. We’re looking at mining among other sectors.”

The authority is also aligning its economic strategy with educational institutions to ensure the region’s workforce is equipped to meet the demands of upcoming sectors.

“We are working closely with King Khalid University, the TVTC (Technical and Vocational Training Corp.), Bishop University, and other educational institutions to align the strategies and to make sure that their graduates are able to find jobs in the opportunities that are going to be realized as we realize this strategy,” he said.

On attracting investments, Al-Dabbagh stated: “What I call the investment ecosystem in Asir, it’s the framework that we use to assess investments, is comprised of three components. The first component is the Invest in Asir committee, and that’s headed by Prince Turki in his capacity as the chairman of the Aseer Development Authority and includes all the public and private sectors.”

He explained that the region offers a compelling opportunity for early movers due to its untapped potential, strategic government backing, and the ability to enter key sectors before they reach full maturity, providing investors with a critical advantage in shaping long-term development.

“Asir relative to those mature, tourism destinations, offers relatively less mature areas, so when they’re coming in, they’re coming in early and they’re going to have a ... not a first mover advantage, but an early mover advantage compared to people that are going to see this place for five years or 10 years down the road when all these incumbents are already on the ground.”

Attracting FDIs

Foreign direct investment is also gaining momentum in Asir, with growing interest from global players seeking early opportunities in the region’s evolving landscape.

“One of the speakers in today’s forum was Fatih (who is managing partner of FTG Development), and they are looking at an investment worth billions in Asir. That is just one example, and foreign direct investors, they look for successful local investors to partner with,” Al-Dabbagh said.

He concluded: “Our doors are open. We’re very happy to meet with the investors from anywhere.”


EU lifts economic sanctions on Syria

EU lifts economic sanctions on Syria
Updated 28 May 2025
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EU lifts economic sanctions on Syria

EU lifts economic sanctions on Syria

BRUSSELS: The European Union lifted economic sanctions on Syria on Wednesday in an effort to support the country’s transition and recovery after the toppling of former president Bashar Assad.
The move follows a political agreement reached last week by EU foreign ministers to lift the sanctions.
The EU will keep sanctions related to Assad’s government and restrictions based on security grounds, while also introducing new sanctions against individuals and entities connected to a wave of violence in March, the Council said.
“The Council will continue monitoring developments on the ground and stands ready to introduce further restrictive measures against human rights violators and those fueling instability in Syria,” it added.