Companies and investors in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are maintaining their medium-term strategies despite ongoing regional uncertainty, according to a new survey by HSBC. The findings come ahead of HSBC’s Global Investment Summit and reflect growing confidence in the region’s economic resilience.
Notably, firms are focusing on redesigning supply chains and increasing investments in artificial intelligence (AI) to navigate disruptions.
Confidence in long-term positioning outpaces global peers
The survey covered 3,000 businesses and institutional investors across ten markets, including 600 respondents from Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Results show strong confidence in long-term strategy. Around 57% of respondents in Saudi Arabia and 50% in the UAE said they strongly believe in their ability to reposition for future growth. In comparison, only 36% of respondents in Europe and Asia shared the same level of confidence.
This highlights the GCC’s stronger outlook despite global volatility.
Supply chain redesign emerges as a key growth driver
Companies in both markets continue to prioritise international expansion. At the same time, they see supply chain restructuring as a major opportunity. According to the survey, 98% of respondents in Saudi Arabia and 95% in the UAE believe reconfiguring supply chains can unlock international growth.
Moreover, 94% expect trade and investment flows to become more regional over the next five years. This shift signals a stronger focus on intraregional trade corridors while maintaining global connections.
AI and technology shape future investment strategies
Access to advanced technology is becoming central to business strategy. Around 60% of respondents said critical technologies and infrastructure will significantly influence their plans over the next three years. As a result, firms are increasing investments in AI and digital tools. These technologies help improve forecasting, decision-making, and operational resilience.
In fact, boosting exposure to AI and tech investments ranks among the top three priorities for portfolio repositioning. This applies to 52% of respondents in the UAE and 46% in Saudi Arabia.
Longer investment horizons reflect strategic shift
Businesses are also extending their investment timelines. Globally, 53% of firms report longer investment horizons than three years ago. However, the trend is even stronger in the GCC. About 73% of Saudi respondents and 67% in the UAE said they are taking a longer-term view. This shift reflects a more measured approach to navigating uncertainty while capturing future growth opportunities.
HSBC highlights resilience and regional opportunity
Selim Kervanci, CEO for Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye at HSBC Bank Middle East, said the region remains a key hub for global trade. He noted that businesses are actively adapting to maintain the flow of goods and investments. At the same time, they are leveraging AI and supply chain realignment to stay competitive.
Kervanci added that HSBC continues to support clients by facilitating trade, capital flows, and investment across markets.
