Saudi Arabia's FDI Surges by 17% in Q4 2023, Reaching SR19.38 billion: New Transparent Approach Boosts Investments
In the last quarter of 2023, foreign direct investment (FDI) in Saudi Arabia increased by 17% compared to the previous quarter, reaching SR19.38 billion ($5.17 billion).
This data was released by the General Authority of Statistics using a new, more transparent and standardized approach.
FDI outflows also rose by 17% to SR6.19 billion, resulting in a net inflow of SR13.187 billion.
The new methodology for calculating FDI was developed through collaboration between the Ministry of Investment, the General Authority for Statistics, the Saudi Central Bank, and the International Monetary Fund.
Saudi Arabia has implemented new methodologies to boost investment promotion and transparency, aiming to create an appealing global financial environment.
Initiatives include the National Investment Strategy, Regional Headquarters Program, and zero-income tax incentives for foreign companies, all crucial for Vision 2030's goal of expanding and diversifying the economy.
In 2023, FDI inflows increased by 12 percent to SR72.28 billion, excluding a SR58.1 billion Aramco deal.
Multinational corporations like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon have joined Saudi Arabia's regional headquarters program.
The text discusses Saudi Arabia's new initiative, the Saudi Green Initiative and Middle East Green Initiative, which aims to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable development.
Several international companies, including Northern Trust, Bechtel, Pepsico, IHG Hotels & Resorts, PwC, and Deloitte, have joined this initiative to participate in government contracts, support Saudi Arabia's hospitality sector, and establish it as a global business hub.
The Kingdom aims to attract SR388 billion in foreign direct investment by 2030, equivalent to 5.7% of its gross domestic product, and position itself among the 15 largest economies in the world.