Data from the General Authority for Statistics in Saudi Arabia revealed a significant positive development in the business and investment environment, with net foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows recording a strong increase of 34.5% during the third quarter of 2025, compared to the same period of the previous year. According to official data, the value of net inflows reached approximately SAR 24.9 billion, compared to SAR 18.5 billion in the third quarter of 2024, reflecting the growing confidence of international investors in the Saudi economy.
Detailed statistics showed that this growth was not limited to the annual comparison but also witnessed quarterly improvement, with net inflows rising by 5.2% compared to the second quarter of 2025, which saw inflows of SAR 23.7 billion. In detailing the movement of funds, the Authority explained that total inward foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows reached SAR 27.7 billion during the third quarter of 2025, an increase of 4.4% compared to the previous year and 3.3% compared to the preceding quarter.
Lower outflows boost net balance
A key factor contributing to this significant increase in net investment was the sharp decline in outward foreign direct investment (FDI) flows from the Kingdom. Outward flows fell by a substantial 65.7%, settling at just SAR 2.7 billion in the third quarter of 2025, compared to SAR 8 billion in the same period of 2024. This decrease reflects a growing trend of reinvesting returns within the Saudi economy rather than transferring them abroad, a healthy indicator of the attractiveness of the domestic market.
Economic context and Vision 2030
This rapid growth in foreign investment is a direct result of Saudi Vision 2030, specifically the National Investment Strategy launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which aims to increase the contribution of foreign direct investment to the Kingdom's GDP. Over the past few years, Saudi Arabia has implemented extensive legislative and structural reforms, including streamlining licensing procedures, modernizing commercial regulations, and establishing special economic zones, making it a preferred destination for global capital seeking stability and sustainable growth.
Strategic importance and expected impact
This increase carries significant economic implications that extend beyond mere figures. The rise in foreign direct investment translates into a greater infusion of liquidity into the non-oil economy, the transfer of advanced technology, and the creation of new job opportunities for citizens. This growth also reinforces the Kingdom's position as a global logistics and industrial hub connecting three continents, and underscores the success of economic diversification policies aimed at reducing reliance on oil as the primary source of income.
The General Authority for Statistics concluded its report by emphasizing that this data is prepared according to an approved international statistical methodology, as foreign direct investment reflects a long-term relationship and a constant interest from the foreign investor in economic entities within the Kingdom, noting that the 2025 figures are still preliminary and subject to updating based on subsequent administrative records.
