Riyadh – Sharikat Mubasher: Saudi Arabia’s industrial sector recorded steady growth at the start of 2026, with the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources issuing 161 new industrial licenses in January, while 107 factories began production during the same month, according to the National Industrial and Mining Information Center.

The ministry’s monthly report showed that investments associated with the newly issued licenses exceeded SAR 3.14 billion. These projects are expected to generate more than 1,419 job opportunities across different regions of the Kingdom.

Meanwhile, factories that entered production in January represented investments worth SAR 1.11 billion and are projected to create around 1,437 jobs. The figures indicate the continued expansion of Saudi Arabia’s industrial base and a growing number of projects transitioning from planning stages into operational facilities.

The report is part of the ministry’s ongoing effort to monitor and publish key industrial indicators, including the volume of investments, the number of licenses issued, and factories that have begun operations. These monthly updates provide insights into the movement of industrial activity across the Kingdom.

The data also reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader push to strengthen its industrial sector and attract investment as part of its economic diversification strategy, while supporting job creation and expanding manufacturing capacity across multiple regions.