Fitch affirms Saudi Arabia's A+ rating with stable outlook

RIYADH — Fitch Ratings has affirmed Saudi Arabia's long-term foreign-currency issuer default rating at "A+" with a stable outlook, citing the Kingdom's strong fiscal position, substantial financial reserves and resilient economy.In its latest report, Fitch said Saudi Arabia's credit profile is supported by government debt and sovereign net foreign assets that remain significantly stronger than the averages for countries rated in the 'A' and 'AA' categories, alongside substantial fiscal buffers.The agency said the Kingdom has maintained economic resilience despite regional geopolitical developments, supported by the strength of non-oil economic activity and prudent fiscal management.Fitch noted that Saudi Arabia's banking sector remains sound, with strong capital levels, low non-performing loans and no need for central bank support during recent regional tensions.The agency expects Saudi Arabia's real GDP growth to moderate to 0.6% in 2026 before rebounding in 2027 as maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz normalizes, supporting higher oil and petrochemical production.Growth is also expected to be supported by the phased rollout of the Kingdom's giga-projects, continued spending by the Public Investment Fund, recovering business confidence and resilient consumer spending.Fitch highlighted Saudi Arabia's healthy external balance sheet, projecting international reserves to remain equivalent to about 11.6 months of current external payments in 2026, far above the median for similarly rated sovereigns.The agency also said Saudi Arabia's sovereign net foreign assets will remain a key credit strength over the coming years, while describing the Kingdom's banking sector as resilient, well-capitalized and supported by strong deposit growth.Fitch added that Saudi Arabia continues to benefit from improving governance, stronger institutions and an increasingly diversified economy.