Saudi Non-Oil Private Sector Growth at 6-Month High

Riyad Bank Saudi Arabia’s PMI rose to 53.8 in August 2026 from 53.1 in July, marking the highest reading in six months and a fifth consecutive month of expansion in the non-oil private sector. Output expanded at the fastest pace in seven months, while new orders also increased for a fifth straight month, although intense competition and excess supply weighed on some firms. Export orders fell sharply and at a faster pace than in July amid continued regional tensions. Employment increased for a second consecutive month, while backlogs declined for a third month, pointing to spare capacity. Supply conditions improved further, encouraging firms to raise input purchases at the fastest pace since February. Inflationary pressures remained elevated, with material, transportation and staff costs rising, although output price inflation eased to its slowest since March. Lastly, business confidence rebounded to a seven-month high.






