Saudi capital market opens direct investment to all categories of foreign investors

The Capital Market Authority announced that all categories of foreign investors would be permitted to invest directly in the Main Market from 1 February 2026. The decision forms part of the development of the framework for international investor participation in the Saudi capital market.

What changed?

The amendments removed the Qualified Foreign Investor framework and its related qualification requirement. They also removed the regulatory framework for swap agreements, while allowing direct investment under the new regulations.

A broader investor base

The move aims to broaden the international investor base and support capital flows and liquidity in the Main Market. This is news about a regulatory change, not a promise of higher prices or returns.