Saudi Arabia’s non-oil trade surplus with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has more than doubled in the second quarter of 2025. Official data revealed that the surplus reached nearly SAR 12 billion, showcasing significant growth in trade relations within the region.
Additionally, the total value of non-oil trade, including re-exports, between Saudi Arabia and GCC member states surged to SAR 54 billion by the end of the second quarter, representing a remarkable 25% increase from SAR 43 billion recorded a year ago. The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported these findings, citing a report from the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT).
Merchandise Exports on the Rise
In terms of non-oil merchandise exports, the value rose by one-third to SAR 33 billion, with national non-oil exports also experiencing growth, reaching SAR 9 billion, which is a 4% increase from SAR 8.5 billion in the second quarter of 2024.
Moreover, re-exports saw a significant jump of 52%, climbing to SAR 24 billion in the quarter ending June 2025. This increase is notable compared to SAR 16 billion recorded a year earlier. Such growth highlights the expanding role of re-exports in Saudi Arabia’s trade dynamics.
Imports from GCC Countries Increase
Consequently, Saudi Arabia’s merchandise imports from GCC countries also rose, reaching SAR 21 billion, marking an 18% annual increase. This upward trend in imports further emphasizes the strengthening economic ties within the region, with the United Arab Emirates emerging as Saudi Arabia’s leading non-oil trading partner within the GCC. Bilateral trade between the two nations hit SAR 40 billion, accounting for an impressive 74% of the total trade volume.
Oman ranked second in non-oil trade with Saudi Arabia, recording SAR 5 billion (10%), with Bahrain following closely with SAR 4.7 billion (9%). Meanwhile, Kuwait and Qatar reported trade volumes of SAR 2.4 billion (4%) and SAR 1.6 billion (3%), respectively.
In conclusion, Saudi Arabia’s non-oil trade with the GCC demonstrates robust growth, reflecting the kingdom’s commitment to enhancing economic cooperation within the region.
