Saudi Arabia’s Investment Volume Surpasses $400B in 2025

Total investment volumes in Saudi Arabia surpassed SR 1.5 trillion ($400 billion) for the first time in 2025, according to statements made by Minister of Investment Khalid Al-Falih at a government press conference in Riyadh.

Al-Falih said foreign capital inflows played a central role in reaching the milestone, noting that foreign direct investment in 2025 is expected to range between SR 140 billion and SR 150 billion. This would represent a fivefold increase compared to the SR 28 billion recorded in 2017, as the Kingdom advances its Vision 2030 diversification agenda. The long-term target is to attract $100 billion in annual foreign direct investment by the end of the decade.

International business presence has expanded alongside the increase in capital flows. The number of licensed foreign firms has reached 62,000, up from 6,000 in 2016, while more than 700 multinational companies have established regional headquarters in the Kingdom. Al-Falih said these developments have contributed to the creation of around 800,000 new jobs, a 45% rise in private-sector wages, and a doubling of women’s participation in the labour force.

Domestic commercial activity has also grown. Active commercial registrations held by Saudi investors reached 1.86 million by the end of 2025, while around 500,000 Saudis are now employed within foreign companies operating in the Kingdom. Al-Falih added that three major firms have begun automobile manufacturing locally, reflecting broader industrial expansion.

Market access reforms are continuing alongside investment growth. From February 1st, the Capital Market Authority will allow all foreign investors direct access to the Main Market, removing previous qualification requirements. The change follows foreign ownership exceeding SR 590 billion by the third quarter of 2025.