Saudi Arabia's service exports reached SAR 58.2 billion in the third quarter of 2025
The General Authority for Statistics in Saudi Arabia announced promising figures reflecting the growth of non-oil sectors, with the value of the Kingdom's service exports for the third quarter of 2025 reaching approximately SAR 58.2 billion. Conversely, service imports to the Kingdom during the same period totaled SAR 120.8 billion, reflecting active economic and trade exchanges between the Kingdom and the rest of the world.
The travel sector is driving service exports
The statistical bulletin revealed the clear dominance of the travel and tourism sector in the structure of service exports, with travel services ranking first at a value of SAR 33.8 billion. This figure reflects the Kingdom's continued success in attracting international visitors, whether for religious tourism (Hajj and Umrah) or leisure and cultural tourism, which has witnessed a qualitative leap in line with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
Second in terms of exports came transportation services, valued at 9.7 billion Saudi riyals, which indicates the development of the Kingdom’s logistical capabilities and the growth of its air and sea fleet that connects the three continents.
Services imports and spending trends
In terms of imports, transportation services ranked first at SAR 32.3 billion, reflecting the Kingdom's large trade volume and its need for shipping and transportation services to import goods and supplies for major projects. Travel services came in second among imports at SAR 30.8 billion, reflecting the spending of citizens and residents on travel abroad.
Economic importance and strategic context
These figures take on particular significance when viewed within the context of the Kingdom's economic transformation. The rise in travel services exports is a direct indicator of the growing contribution of the tourism sector to non-oil GDP. The Kingdom is working diligently to diversify its sources of income, and the services sector is a key pillar of its balance of payments.
The growth in transport exports also aligns with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which aims to solidify the Kingdom's position as a global logistics hub. These figures are not merely financial indicators; they demonstrate the integration of the Saudi economy into the global economy and its capacity to export competitive services.
Global statistical methodology
It is worth noting that the General Authority for Statistics adheres to the highest standards of quality and reliability in issuing this data. It employs a statistical methodology based on international best practices, in accordance with the Balance of Payments Manual (BPM6) and the EBOPS 2010 classification. The Authority ensures data accuracy by addressing missing values and reviewing internal and temporal consistency, thus providing decision-makers and investors with an accurate and transparent database that supports sound economic planning.
