Riyadh – Sharikat Mubasher: Standard Chartered Global Research has projected stronger business activity in Saudi Arabia during the third quarter of 2026, citing resilient domestic demand, improving regional trade conditions, and the Kingdom’s ongoing economic diversification efforts.

According to its latest economic analysis, Saudi Arabia entered the second half of the year with solid underlying economic activity despite heightened regional uncertainty. Point-of-sale transactions rose 6% year-on-year in May, returning to levels seen in January 2026, highlighting the strength of consumer spending.

The report expects economic momentum to accelerate in Q3, supported by sustained investment, easing inflationary pressures, and a strengthening labor market. These factors are expected to bolster household purchasing power, improve business confidence, and reinforce domestic demand.

Mazen Bunyan, CEO and Head of Coverage for Saudi Arabia at Standard Chartered, said the Kingdom’s economy has demonstrated resilience despite regional challenges, reflecting strong domestic demand and continued progress in economic diversification. He added that improving regional conditions should create further opportunities for investment and private sector growth during the second half of the year.