Strong surge in the Saudi stock market
The main Saudi index, the Tadawul All Share Index, recorded one of its largest daily gains in recent months, rising about 2.5% at the open and closing significantly higher.
Almost all sectors and a majority of listed stocks saw gains, reflecting strong market enthusiasm.
📢 Historic reform for foreign investors
Saudi authorities announced that, starting February 1, 2026, all foreign investors will have full access to the Saudi stock market.
Previously, foreign access was restricted to qualified schemes or swap agreements, which limited direct ownership. These restrictions have been removed, allowing international investors to buy Saudi stocks directly without special conditions or qualifications.
🌍 Objectives of the reform
Expand and diversify the investor base.
Attract more international capital.
Increase market liquidity.
Strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a global financial hub, beyond its traditional role as a major oil economy.
💹 Context of foreign investment
Even before the reform, foreign investors already held hundreds of billions of riyals in the Saudi market.
Full market access is expected to make Saudi Arabia even more attractive to both institutional and individual investors worldwide.