This week’s Saudi Round-Up reflects strategic investment and deepening global engagement in diverse sectors, particularly sports and construction.
General Business and Economy
Non-Oil Private Sector Grows as Construction Demand Rises
Saudi Arabia’s non-oil private sector rose to a PMI of 55.8 in May, reflecting stronger performance in new orders and hiring. This rebound was led by construction, which saw the sharpest pickup in new business and activity. Output growth slowed, but purchasing activity surged to a 14-month high.
Business optimism jumped to its highest point in 18 months, supported by improved supply chains and stronger domestic demand. This signals a positive trend for economic diversification under Vision 2030.
Saudi Economy to Outperform Global Peers in 2026
According to the OECD, Saudi Arabia’s GDP is forecast to grow by 2.5% in 2026, outpacing the growth of the US, UK, Germany, and France, after a 1.8% rise in 2025. Inflation is expected to remain below 2% across both years, which is well under the G20 average.
This robust outlook supports Vision 2030’s diversification agenda. With global growth set to slow down, Saudi Arabia remains among the few G20 economies maintaining momentum. The OECD urged further reforms to reduce trade friction, promote entrepreneurship, and boost investment across key sectors.
Sports
PIF Becomes Official Partner of 2025 Club World Cup
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund signed on as an official partner for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the US. This move strengthens its international sports portfolio and builds momentum ahead of the Kingdom hosting the 2034 World Cup.
The month-long tournament features global football powerhouses and is part of PIF’s long-term strategy to globalize Saudi influence in sports. By aligning with FIFA and top-tier competitions, the Kingdom is advancing its soft power objectives and reinforcing its global branding under Vision 2030.
Energy & Sustainability
Aramco Issues $5 Billion in Bonds Across Three Tranches
Aramco has announced the completion of a $5 billion bond sale across three tranches with maturities in 2030, 2035, and 2055. Coupon rates range from 4.75% to 6.375%, with the debt listed on the London Stock Exchange under its Global Medium Term Note Program.
The move supports the company’s long-term growth plans while reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s global standing in energy finance under Vision 2030.
ACWA Power to Spend $1.9 Billion on Rights Issue Primarily in MENA
ACWA Power will invest up to $1.1 billion (SAR 4.2 billion) of its $1.9 billion (SAR 7.12 billion) rights issue proceeds on MENA projects. Central Asia will receive up to $453 million, while $374 million is earmarked for M&A and $94 million for corporate expenses.
The funds will support its 94-project portfolio spanning 13 countries, valued at $97.3 billion. With over half the projects already operational, the focus remains on renewables, water, and hydrogen. The capital raise, pending shareholder approval, will strengthen the company’s role in regional energy transformation under Saudi Arabia’s green transition goals.
Logistics
NEOM Port Receives Saudi’s First Automated Cranes
The Port of NEOM has deployed Saudi Arabia’s first remote-controlled STS and eRTG cranes, setting the stage for full automation ahead of its 2026 terminal launch. These machines will boost cargo handling efficiency and help shift local logistics to high-tech, low-carbon standards.
Infrastructure is advancing fast, including a 900m quay wall and an 18.5 m-deep channel ready for mega vessels. Meanwhile, a training program for crane operators is underway, supporting NEOM’s push to build a future-ready logistics workforce rooted in local talent.
Real Estate
Saudi Arabia Launches First Tokenized Real Estate Transaction
Saudi Arabia has rolled out its first tokenized real estate deal through a pilot between droppRWA and RAFAL Real Estate. The initiative allows citizens to invest in premium property assets for as little as 1 Riyal (approx. $0.27), unlocking access to real estate markets that were previously out of reach for most Saudis.
The project is designed to become a regulatory and technological benchmark for tokenized real estate across the Kingdom. It supports Vision 2030 by driving digital infrastructure, encouraging foreign investment, and creating inclusive ownership models that turn real estate into a digitally accessible asset class.
ROSHN signs innovation-focused MoU with Singapore Cooperation Enterprise
ROSHN Group signed an MoU with Singapore Cooperation Enterprise under its ROSHNEXT program to explore joint innovation in urban development. The deal aims to exchange expertise on master planning, sourcing, and smart city solutions, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s evolving real estate needs.
The delegation also met with Singaporean academia and tech firms to co-develop R&D programs and workforce training initiatives. The goal is to adopt advanced, people-centric planning models that elevate local capabilities and align real estate growth with Vision 2030’s innovation and human capital goals.
Gaw Capital Targets Saudi Real Estate
Hong Kong-based Gaw Capital is shifting its focus toward the Middle East, prioritizing Saudi Arabia for upcoming real estate and industrial investments.
Gaw aims to serve as a funding bridge for Asian businesses expanding into the Kingdom, directly supporting Vision 2030’s push to diversify the economy, attract global talent, and grow non-oil sectors like real estate and life sciences.