SAUDI EXPATRIATES

The CMA board approved a new regulatory framework that allows non-resident foreign investors to invest directly in the Saudi Main Market. This modification enhances the accessibility of the capital market to a wider range of international investors. Trending: Saudi Arabia introduces Gasoline 98, Know What it is and who can use it.

The approved amendments aim to

➤ Expand and diversify the investor base in the Main Market

➤ Increase foreign investment inflows

➤ Improve overall market liquidity

Following the revised regulatory structure, the Capital Market Authority (CMA) has eliminated the Qualified Foreign Investor (QFI) program within the Main Market. In other words, foreign investors no longer have to meet certain standards before they can invest. All types of foreign investors can now freely enter the market.

The CMA also canceled the regulatory framework for swap agreements, which previously allowed foreign investors to gain only economic exposure to Saudi-listed securities. With the new rules, foreign investors can now own shares directly in the Main Market.

By the end of the third quarter of 2025, international investors’ ownership in the Saudi capital market exceeded SR590 billion.

Foreign investments in the Main Market reached around SR519 billion during the same period, compared to SR498 billion at the end of 2024, showing steady growth. Most Viewed: 70% Saudization on Procurement jobs

The CMA indicated that these amendments have the potential to attract a greater number of international investors and enhance foreign capital inflows into the Saudi market.

In July 2025, the CMA authorized measures to streamline the procedures for opening and managing investment accounts for specific investor groups. These included:

🔘 Foreign individuals living in GCC countries

🔘 Individuals who previously lived in Saudi Arabia or other GCC states

This step was described as an interim phase leading to the latest decision and was intended to boost confidence in the Main Market and support the Saudi economy.

The CMA explained that these amendments are part of its gradual strategy to open the Saudi capital market. This plan builds on earlier steps and prepares the market for future actions, aiming to make Saudi Arabia a top choice for global investors and attract more foreign money. Read: Gosi adds 3 more languages to its App for expat users

In October 2025, the CMA published the draft regulatory framework for allowing non-resident foreign investors to invest directly in the Main Market. The draft was shared on the Unified Electronic Platform for Consulting the Public and Government Entities and on the CMA’s official website.