November data signalled a strong upturn in the Saudi non-oil private sector. Steep output and new order expansions contributed to the latest positive result, according to the latest Saudi Arabia PMI survey.
Meanwhile, foreign demand improved at a modest pace and job creation continued. On the price front, cost burdens rose moderately, while output prices were unchanged since October amid strong competition in the sector.
Business confidence remained positive, albeit the level of sentiment fell slightly since the preceding survey.
The survey, sponsored by Emirates NBD and produced by IHS Markit, contains original data collected from a monthly survey of business conditions in the Saudi private sector.
Khatija Haque, head of MENA research at Emirates NBD, said: “The strong November PMI reading is encouraging ... and indicates that it was largely ‘business as usual’ last month. That output and new orders continued to increase sharply bodes well for non-oil sector growth in the fourth quarter. Higher oil prices likely contributed to the broadly positive business sentiment.”
The headline seasonally adjusted Emirates NBD Saudi Arabia Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) — a composite gauge designed to give a single-figure snapshot of operating conditions in the non-oil private sector economy — rose to 57.5 in November, from 55.6 in October.
This figure indicated the steepest improvement in the non-oil private sector since August 2015.
Output continued to increase, in line with the survey’s trend. The rate of growth was sharp overall and accelerated to a 10-month high in November. According to anecdotal evidence, the upturn in business activity was supported by strong domestic demand.
Growth of new business accelerated during November, with the respective index hitting a 27-month high. The improvement in new work inflows was reported by 37 percent of respondents.
New export order growth reached a three-month high during November. Non-oil private sector firms commonly linked the rise in new orders from abroad to an economic upturn in neighboring countries.
Job creation continued in November, thereby extending the current sequence of hiring to 44 months.
Saudi non-oil private sector growth hits 27-month high: Survey
Saudi non-oil private sector growth hits 27-month high: Survey
LuLu Walkathon: 22,000 participants champion greener future
Alkhobar’s New Corniche transformed into a vibrant hub of energy and community spirit when more than 22,000 people gathered for the highly anticipated “LuLu Walkathon.” Organized by LuLu Saudi Hypermarket, the 3-km event was held under the patronage of the Ministry of Sport and Alkhobar municipality on Jan. 31. The walkathon successfully united the community under the themes of health and environmental sustainability.
The event was held with the cooperation of Meshaal Al-Harbi, head of Alkhobar municipality, and Tareq Al-Qahtani, director of the Ministry of Sport’s Eastern Province branch. The official flag-off was performed by Mohammed Haris, director of LuLu Hypermarket Saudi Arabia.
This year’s walkathon went beyond fitness, offering a rich tapestry of entertainment including soulful traditional Arabic music, a contemporary violin performance, and a playful “donuts dance,” which ensured a festive atmosphere for families of all ages.
A major highlight of the morning was the presence of Khadra. Khadra served as a living reminder of the Kingdom’s deep-rooted cultural artistry, posing for photos with the thousands of participants who lined the coast. To ensure every attendee felt the spirit of the celebration, participants were geared up with a premium merchandise kit containing custom-branded T-shirts and caps. Furthermore, every individual who successfully completed the 3-km route was rewarded with an exclusive LuLu goodie bag at the finish line to celebrate their achievement.
Sustainability remained a core pillar for the LuLu Walkathon this year, reflecting the brand’s long-term environmental vision. LuLu’s staff managed the route with a strict focus on environmental responsibility, while strategically placed refreshment stalls kept walkers hydrated without compromising the pristine condition of the corniche.
The massive success of the event was supported by key partners, including MasterCard as the commercial sponsor and Nada, which provided vital refreshments, alongside significant support from Radio Mirchi and Alyaum newspaper.
“The walkathon concluded not just as a race, but as a meaningful tribute to the Kingdom’s past and a definitive step toward a sustainable future,” a statement said. “By blending physical activity with cultural celebration and environmental stewardship, LuLu Hypermarket reaffirmed its commitment to the Saudi community, promoting an active, engaged, and responsible lifestyle for all residents.”
