A historic achievement in the Saudi financial sector
In a move reflecting the strength and resilience of the Saudi economy, the latest report from the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) revealed an unprecedented achievement, as the assets of Saudi banks exceeded the 5 trillion riyal mark for the first time in their history by the end of January 2026. This exceptional figure represents a milestone in the banking sector's journey and indicates solid financial and economic stability.
Details of the growth of Saudi banks' assets
According to official data, the total assets of commercial banks operating in the Kingdom reached approximately SAR 5.02 trillion. This figure reflects a significant and substantial growth of 10% compared to the same period in 2025, confirming the continued upward growth and expansion of the financial sector.
Distribution of assets and liabilities
The data showed a detailed breakdown of the distribution of these assets, as follows:
- Private Sector: Liabilities to the private sector accounted for the largest share, representing 63% of total bank assets, equivalent to approximately SAR 3.18 trillion. This reflects the vital role of banks in financing private projects and supporting businesses.
- Public sector: Banks’ total claims on the public sector ranked second with a value of 907.3 billion riyals, representing 18% of the total.
- Foreign assets: The value of foreign assets amounted to approximately 435.9 billion riyals, constituting 9%, which indicates the geographical diversity of Saudi banks’ investments.
Fixed assets and cash flow
Regarding the other financial components included in the Saudi Central Bank's report, the value of central bank treasury bills reached approximately SAR 23.2 billion. Liabilities to banks amounted to around SAR 45.2 billion. In the same context, the value of fixed assets reached SAR 56.6 billion, while cash on hand amounted to approximately SAR 21.6 billion.
Regarding banking reserves, the data showed that bank reserves classified as regular deposits with the central bank amounted to approximately SAR 164.8 billion. Current deposits reached SAR 1.4 billion, in addition to other miscellaneous deposits totaling SAR 51.8 billion.
Historical context and the impact of the Kingdom's Vision 2030
This historic rise in Saudi banks' assets is a direct result of the structural economic reforms that Saudi Arabia is undergoing under the umbrella of Vision 2030. Since the launch of the Vision, the Saudi government has worked to diversify sources of income and reduce dependence on oil, which has stimulated non-oil sectors and increased demand for credit and financing of major development projects.
The importance and expected impact of the event
The fact that Saudi banks' assets have exceeded the 5 trillion riyal mark carries wide-ranging economic implications:
- Local impact: This growth enhances the ability of banks to inject more liquidity into the local market, which supports financing for small and medium enterprises, increases mortgage financing programs for citizens, and thus creates more job opportunities.
- Regional impact: This achievement cements Saudi Arabia’s position as the largest financial market in the Middle East and North Africa region, making it the most attractive and stable financial center in the region.
- International impact: This strong figure sends a reassuring message to foreign investors and global credit rating agencies about the robustness of the Saudi banking system, which contributes to attracting more foreign direct investment.
In conclusion, the Saudi banking sector proves day after day its ability to adapt and grow sustainably, to be the main pillar in the economic transformation journey that the Kingdom is leading towards a prosperous future.
