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Uncovering growth: Insights from HSBC's New Networks of Capital - Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is rapidly becoming a focal point for international trade and investment, driven by its ambitious Vision 2030 plan. As global businesses look to expand their horizons, the Kingdom offers a unique blend of growth potential and economic stability.
HSBC's recent research highlights that 8 out of 10 international businesses plan to increase trade and investment with Saudi Arabia over the next five years, with more than 60% eager to do so within the next six months. This confidence is underpinned by Saudi Arabia's growing economy, cited by 53% of surveyed business leaders, alongside its economic stability and business-friendly policies.
8 in 10
Proportion of businesses planning to increase trade and investment with Saudi Arabia over the next five years
The Kingdom's diversification efforts are opening doors in sectors like technology and infrastructure, identified by 58% and 38% of business leaders respectively as areas with significant growth potential. Despite the promising outlook, businesses face barriers such as foreign ownership restrictions and market competition, each cited by 31% of respondents. However, Saudi Arabia is actively considering amendments to laws governing foreign ownership to enhance foreign direct investment, creating a more business-friendly environment.
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Selim Kervanci
Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Bank Middle East
HSBC sees incredible potential in the Middle East, and Saudi Arabia is central to that view. Our research indicates increased confidence from international businesses in Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation and highlights the Kingdom’s unique ability to combine heightened growth prospects with economic stability.
As Saudi Arabia continues to transform its economy, global businesses have a unique opportunity to participate in this growth journey. By aligning with Vision 2030, companies can unlock new avenues for trade and investment.
Explore HSBC’s comprehensive analysis by downloading the full report, where you'll find valuable data-driven insights.
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Survey methodology: This report includes insights from a survey of business decision makers conducted for HSVC by FTI Consulting between 22 September and 2 October, 2025. The online survey was completed by a total of 4,000 individuals with influence on decisions-making in large companies across nine markets: Egypt, Germany, Hong Kong, India, mainland China, Saudi Arabia, United Araba Emirates, United Kingdom, and United States. All respondents represent companies with annual global revenues of at least USD50 million, and 20% of the sample reported revenues of over USD2 billion. Where multiple responses were allowed, the answers to some questions may exceed 100%.
About HSBC: HSBC Holdings plc, the parent company of HSBC, is headquartered in London. HSBC serves customers worldwide from offices in 57 countries and territories. With assets of US$3,234bn at 30 September 2025, HSBC is one of the world’s largest banking and financial services organisations.
About HSBC in the MENAT region: HSBC is the largest and most widely represented international banking organisation in the Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye (MENAT), with a presence in nine countries across the region: Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and the United Arab Emirates. Across MENAT, HSBC had assets of US$73bn as at 31 December 2024. www.hsbc.ae
About HSBC in Saudi Arabia: HSBC is a 31% shareholder of Saudi Awwal Bank (SAB), and a 51% shareholder of HSBC Saudi Arabia for investment banking in the Kingdom.
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