The Saudi economy recorded a new qualitative leap that reflects the strength of the investment environment in the Kingdom, as the stock of foreign direct investment rose to about 1,049.7 billion riyals by the end of the third quarter of last year 2025 , achieving a growth rate of 10% compared to the same period of 2024. These figures confirm the success of the economic policies pursued by the Kingdom in attracting foreign capital.
Investment performance details and benchmark figures
According to the latest data from the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA), foreign direct investment (FDI) has become a key pillar of the economy, representing approximately 33% of total foreign investment in the Kingdom. Looking at the broader picture of economic performance, the total stock of FDI in the Saudi economy reached a record high of SAR 3.21 trillion , marking a significant year-on-year increase of 18%.
These huge financial flows are distributed between foreign direct investment, portfolio investments that include equity, investment fund shares and debt securities with a total value of 1,316.7 billion riyals, in addition to other investments worth 843.6 billion riyals, reflecting the diversity of investment channels available in the Saudi market.
Economic context and Vision 2030
These figures cannot be viewed in isolation from the massive economic momentum driven by the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. This growth is a direct result of the legislative and regulatory reforms implemented by the Kingdom in recent years, including the launch of the National Investment Strategy, which aims to empower investors and facilitate the business environment. Special economic zones, the modernization of corporate regulations, and the digital transformation of the financial infrastructure have all contributed to strengthening foreign investor confidence in the Saudi economy as a safe and sustainable destination.
Strategic importance and expected impact
The fact that foreign direct investment (FDI) has surpassed the one trillion riyal mark carries profound economic implications. It signifies not only the influx of cash but also the transfer of knowledge and technology, the creation of new job opportunities for citizens, and the enhancement of local content. This sustained growth reflects the commitment of global companies to the Saudi market as a key regional hub, supporting plans to diversify national income sources and reduce dependence on oil, and reinforcing the Kingdom's position among the fastest-growing economies in the G20.
The concept of foreign direct investment
Technically, foreign direct investment (FDI) is defined as investment that reflects a long-term relationship and ongoing interest in economic entities based in an economy other than the one in which the investment is made. This is achieved when the foreign investor owns 10% or more of the shareholders' equity, thus enabling them to exert a degree of control or significant influence over decision-making processes in service of their strategic interests.
