In line with Vision 2030, which the Saudis launched, the focus of the Kingdom has moved from the oil sector to improving infrastructure, healthcare, and education, allowing it to emerge as a powerful economic country. These industries boosted Saudi Arabia’s efforts to expand its International trade, creating new business opportunities.
In 2026, the economy, driven by robust non-oil growth, stable inflation and strategic investments in non-oil business sectors in Saudi Arabia, will continue to attract global investors to its dynamic and diversified market. From technology to tourism, these are the top 5 industries in Saudi Arabia that offer lucrative business potential.
Top 5 industries in Saudi Arabia in 2026
The top 5 industries in Saudi Arabia in 2026, with many business opportunities, are in the following sectors.
1. Construction & Real Estate
Amidst the rapidly growing construction industry, Saudi Arabia foresees new trends and ambitious projects. Significant projects like NEOM, an innovative city initiative situated in the northwestern region of Saudi Arabia, signal strong growth in the construction field.
These projects cover high-tech and eco-friendly sectors, presenting a broad market outlook.
The construction market focuses on Commercial, Industrial, Infrastructure, Energy and Utilities, Institutional & Residential sectors.
Saudi’s real estate market is thriving, benefitting from population growth and urbanization with significant demand for residential and commercial properties.
2. Tourism, sports and Entertainment
The tourism sector in Saudi Arabia is undergoing an upsurge, with several luxury resort projects creating new opportunities. The country’s rich cultural and natural resources attract many visitors. Improvements in the local infrastructure stimulate growth in related industries.
Various forthcoming events such as the World Expo 2030 in Riyadh, global sporting events like FIFA 2034, AFC 2027, and Asian Summer Games in 2034 are expected to attract many international visitors, establishing Saudi Arabia as a premier destination for global tourism.
The country also develops cinema chains, theme parks, and sports facilities. Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural and sports resources support the growth of sports industries, benefitting related sectors.
3. Renewable Energy
Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in Solar and wind energy. Saudi Arabia’s natural resources, like abundant Solar and wind resources, offer vast opportunities for investors interested in starting numerous green energy projects.
4. Technology & Innovation:
The Kingdom is on the way to becoming a key hub for technology services in the Middle East with cutting-edge digital infrastructure. The government strongly supports technological innovation, especially in FinTech and e-commerce.
The financial services sector of Saudi Arabia has witnessed significant expansion, particularly in Islamic finance, which has enormous market potential. The Islamic economic system has attracted many international financial institutions, providing investors with wide-ranging investment choices.
Within the IT sector, the following are the areas of focus:
- Cyber Security
- Smart Cities
- Cloud Computing
- AI
- 5G and
- E-Commerce.
5. Healthcare & Biotechnology:
With heavy investment by the government in healthcare and biotechnology, the country’s healthcare sector offers unprecedented opportunities, from modern hospitals to life sciences research. As the industry develops, investors can expect stable long-term returns while providing high-quality healthcare services.
Other industrial Sectors which could benefit the investors are the following:
A. Food and Beverage:
Delivering healthy, high-quality food and beverages has bolstered the efforts of Saudi Arabians to be a central food hub. Its food options range from global foods to Asian, Mediterranean and American dishes, with a wide range of eatables like seafood, meat substitutes, and breakfast cereals.
The government invests hugely in this sector, making the country a potential market for practising new business ideas in Saudi Arabia, both foreign and local.
B. Industrial Manufacturing
The country’s industrial sector is gradually moving towards high-end areas, especially electric vehicles and advanced equipment manufacturing. New industrial projects offer opportunities for foreign entrepreneurs to invest in this sector.
To start any business setup in the aforementioned industrial sectors, an investor has to obtain an entrepreneur license in Saudi Arabia. The Entrepreneur License, issued by the Ministry of Investment (MISA), confers legal authorization to entrepreneurs, fostering an enabling environment for business expansion.
Helpline Group in Saudi Arabia
Helpline Group, backed by a strong and experienced team, takes pride in having 25 years of expertise in business setup, offering a seamless, hassle-free experience for clients, including foreigners.
Our seasoned professionals possessing in-depth knowledge of the latest rules and regulations ensure that your business setup in Saudi Arabia in the top industrial sectors is handled with precision and professionalism, making us your reliable ally in achieving success.
