UK unlocks £6.4bn in two-way trade and investment with Saudi Arabia
The United Kingdom announced a £6.4 billion package of trade and investment commitments with Saudi Arabia after senior-level meetings in Riyadh focused on strengthening economic ties across the Gulf. A cornerstone of the package is up to £5 billion in support from UK Export Finance to back projects in the Kingdom and help British suppliers win contracts.
The commitments span finance, technology, infrastructure, education, and aviation. Banks outlined plans to expand regional footprints, while a UK artificial intelligence firm set out new decision-intelligence initiatives for the Saudi market. Universities detailed collaborative programs to deepen skills and research links. Additional commercial announcements touched on cybersecurity, digital banking, and large project pipelines in energy, water, housing, logistics, and ports.
Officials framed the package as part of a broader UK strategy to boost trade with Gulf Cooperation Council countries and to position British firms for major Saudi projects. Business delegations highlighted expected opportunities tied to tourism, entertainment, and urban development initiatives, with new air connections further supporting trade and travel flows. The government said the measures are designed to convert early-stage discussions into contract wins for UK companies over the coming months.
