Saudi Economy Shows Resilience as Development Council Reviews Growth and Regional Challenges

Saudi Arabia’s Council of Economic and Development Affairs reviewed the Kingdom’s economic performance and regional developments during a meeting held via video conference, highlighting the resilience of the national economy despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.

According to the Saudi Press Agency, the council examined several agenda items, including a periodic report submitted by the Ministry of Economy and Planning. The report provided an assessment of global economic conditions and growth prospects amid regional instability, while also analyzing the potential impact of those developments on Saudi Arabia’s economy.

The ministry’s report pointed to the Kingdom’s strong financial foundations and its ability to respond effectively to changing circumstances. It noted that the logistics sector remains prepared to manage potential disruptions and that government measures aimed at protecting food security continue to ensure the steady movement of goods through alternative supply routes when needed.

Officials also stressed that recent developments in the region are not expected to hinder the progress of major projects underway across the Kingdom. Large-scale development initiatives linked to Saudi Arabia’s long-term economic transformation strategy are continuing as planned.

The council reviewed updated economic and financial indicators that reflected positive momentum in the national economy. Data showed that Saudi Arabia’s gross domestic product grew by 3 percent during the first quarter of the year. Growth was supported by expansion in both oil and non-oil sectors, as well as increased government activity.

The indicators also showed a decline in annual inflation, an improvement in the non-oil private sector index and a stronger trade balance, signaling continued stability across key areas of the economy.

Members of the council also discussed the annual report of the Digital Content Council for the 2025 fiscal year. The report outlined developments in the Kingdom’s digital content sector, including its contribution to gross domestic product, revenues and overall market size.

The report highlighted achievements under the Digital Content Program, which aims to strengthen the sector’s growth and increase its economic contribution. Officials noted that the sector has experienced significant progress in recent years and continues to play an important role in supporting digital transformation and economic diversification goals under Saudi Vision 2030.

In addition, the council reviewed a number of policy and procedural matters, including a draft guide for government agency models and a proposed national policy designed to promote emergency medical services in public places and workplaces.

The meeting also included updates from several committees covering economic diversification, balance of payments performance, price monitoring, real estate market trends, foreign trade activity and consumer and wholesale price movements.

Following discussions, the council issued a series of decisions and recommendations related to the matters under review.