IMF Projects Saudi Economy to Grow 3.1% in 2026

The International Monetary Fund has projected that the economy of Saudi Arabia will grow by 3.1% in 2026, rising to 4.5% in 2027, according to its April 2026 World Economic Outlook.

The 2026 forecast represents a downgrade from the 4.5% estimate published in January, while the 2027 projection has been revised upward by 0.9 percentage points, reflecting expectations of improved regional conditions.

The report places the outlook within a broader slowdown across the Middle East and Central Asia, where growth is now projected at 1.9% in 2026 following widespread downward revisions.

Despite the regional backdrop, Saudi Arabia is identified as among the least affected economies, supported by alternative export routes and ongoing economic diversification programmes.

The IMF noted that the Kingdom remains on a path of sustained expansion, with the 2027 upgrade linked to expectations that energy production and logistics activity will return to more normal levels.

The projections also highlight the role of non-oil sectors in supporting growth, as part of broader efforts to diversify the economy.