In this edition, we highlight the most recent active tenders in Saudi Arabia, along with the surge in New Zealand investments.
General Economy News
Saudi Arabia Opens Bidding for Qiddiya High-Speed Rail Project
The Royal Commission for Riyadh City, in partnership with the National Center for Privatization & PPP, and Qiddiya Investment Company, has launched the registration phase for companies interested in the construction of the first phase of the Qiddiya high-speed rail project, under a public-private partnership model.
Al-Baha Region Unveils Industrial Projects Worth $24 million
The Al-Baha region has unveiled SR89 million ($24 million) in new industrial projects aimed at attracting investment, creating jobs, and developing its mining and SME sectors.
The region is rich in mineral deposits valued at SR285.4 billion, including gold, silver, copper, and marble, with 39 mining licenses granted totaling SR117 million in investments, making it an ideal base for companies seeking to set up a business in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi and New Zealand Deepen Ties with $100 Million in Commercial Deals
Saudi is emerging as one of the most dynamic markets in the Middle East, as highlighted by New Zealand’s trade minister during a visit to Riyadh, where deals worth $100 million were signed by businesses from both countries.
Trade volume between the two countries has grown significantly, with exports from New Zealand more than doubling since 2021, totaling $1.35 billion as of mid-2025.
French investment in Saudi Surges 180%
French direct investments in Saudi Arabia have seen a 180% increase in five years, reaching €16 billion ($18.79 billion).
Non-oil trade between the two nations is expected to surpass SR20 billion ($5.33 billion) in 2024. Major sectors of collaboration include energy, infrastructure, technology, and aviation, with aviation investments exceeding SR10 billion ($2.6 billion).
Hospitality
Saudi Hotels Post 1.9% ADR Rise in H1 as Pipeline Expands: JLL
The hospitality sector continued its growth momentum in the first half of 2025, with the average daily rate rising 1.9% year-on-year to reach SR821.8 ($219.06), according to JLL’s latest report.
Revenue per available room also edged up 0.2%, reflecting ongoing tourism transformation aligned with Vision 2030, which targets increasing tourism’s GDP contribution to 10% and creating 1 million jobs by 2030.
Technology
Tencent Cloud Accelerates Saudi Expansion
Chinese technology giant Tencent is accelerating its cloud and AI push into Saudi, positioning the Kingdom as its primary hub for the Middle East under Vision 2030.
The company is finalizing the launch of its first Middle East cloud region in Riyadh, backed by a $150 million investment, aiming to support digital transformation across Saudi Arabia and the wider region. Tencent also plans to localize its technologies to serve key sectors such as digital media, e-commerce, and financial services.
Cybersecurity Sector Adds $4.9bn to GDP
Saudi Arabia’s cybersecurity sector has added SR18.5 billion ($4.9 billion) to the Kingdom’s economy in 2024, marking a 19% jump from the previous year. The sector accounted for 0.40% of the country’s GDP and 0.71% of non-oil activities, supported by increased spending from both public and private sectors.
Saudi Arabia maintained its top global ranking in cybersecurity for 2025 and was recognized as a Tier 1 “role-modeling” nation in the Global Cybersecurity Index 2024.
Saudi Climbs to 46th in UN Global Innovation Index
Saudi has increased its ranking to 46th out of 139 countries in the latest Global Innovation Index, reflecting its deepening efforts to become a regional hub for research and technology.
This marks a steady climb from 66th place in 2021, showcasing progress in market sophistication, policy stability, and stronger collaboration between universities and industry.
Google Pay and Alipay+ Launch in Saudi
Google Pay will be launched across Saudi Arabia, and the Kingdom’s central bank (SAMA) has signed an agreement to enable Alipay+ payments by 2026, leveraging the national payment system, mada.
These developments support Vision 2030 goals to enhance the digital economy, promote financial inclusion, and increase cashless transactions to 70% by 2025.
Logistics
Saudi Ports Handle Over 331 Million Tons of Cargo in 2024
Saudi Arabia’s ports handled a total cargo volume exceeding 331 million tons in 2024, reflecting robust growth in both exports and imports. Exports rose 9.3% to 222.4 million tons, led by King Fahad Industrial Port in Yanbu, which accounted for 51% of total exports. Imports increased by 3.6% to 108.9 million tons, with King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam receiving the largest share.
Media
Saudi PIF Acquires 54% of MBC Group in $2bn Deal
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) has acquired a 54% stake in the MBC Group, the leading media and entertainment company in the Middle East and North Africa, for approximately $1.99 billion.
The purchase was made through a private transaction with Istedamah Holding Company, a subsidiary of the Saudi Finance Ministry. MBC Group, which reaches around 150 million viewers weekly, reiterated its commitment to producing premium Arabic content with regional relevance and expanding its production capabilities in Saudi Arabia.