1. Maintaining the credit rating at A+
Fixing the rating at A+/A-1 with a stable outlook represents an indication of the resilience of the economy and the creditworthiness of Saudi Arabia, despite the geopolitical challenges.
Maintaining a high rating enhances the confidence of investors and lenders, and supports stable access to financing markets.
2. Oil exports continue
Saudi Arabia has demonstrated an ability to limit the impact of a physical closure of the Strait of Hormuz, by using the East-West Pipeline to transport oil and hydrocarbon products to the port of Yanbu on the Red Sea.
According to OPEC data, the Kingdom’s oil exports averaged about 6.9 million barrels per day during the period from March to August, despite the repercussions of the conflict.
These data highlight the Kingdom’s ability to maintain a large portion of energy flows even in light of regional turmoil affecting one of the most important oil shipping corridors globally.
3. Strong energy infrastructure
The East-West pipeline extends for about 1,200 kilometers, and its capacity reaches about 7 million barrels per day after recent developments.
The line represents one of the elements of strategic flexibility for the Saudi economy, as it provides an alternative route for transporting oil to the Red Sea, and reduces the exposure of energy exports to the risks of disrupting navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
4. A strong recovery is expected for the economy in 2027
Although Standard & Poor’s expects Saudi Arabia’s real GDP to decline by 0.9% during 2026, the agency expects the economy to record a strong recovery in 2027, with growth of 8.2% supported by increased oil production.
It also expects average economic growth to reach about 3.3% during the years 2028 and 2029.
These forecasts indicate that the expected decline in 2026 may be temporary, with growth expected to return strongly the following year.
