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The General Authority for Statistics released consumer price index figures on August 13 showing Saudi Arabia’s annual inflation rate stood at 1.8 percent in July 2026. Housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels advanced 4.2 percent year on year, accelerating from a 3.5 percent gain in June, according to the authority. Actual housing rents increased 4.3 percent and contributed 0.8 percentage points to the overall rate, GASTAT data indicate.
Miscellaneous goods and services, encompassing personal care and related items, rose 2.9 percent annually while moderating from 3.8 percent the month before, the statistics authority reported, with an 11.1 percent increase in other personal effects that featured a 12 percent jump in jewelry and watch prices. Recreation, sports and culture costs climbed 2.4 percent, supported by 3.7 percent higher prices for holiday packages. Food and non-alcoholic beverages gained 1.5 percent and transport costs rose 1.4 percent, both drawn from the GASTAT breakdown that also showed restaurants and hotels up 2.0 percent and education advancing 1.2 percent.
Furnishings, household equipment and routine maintenance prices declined 0.5 percent over the year while clothing and footwear fell 0.4 percent, according to the authority’s assessment. The consumer price index rose 0.2 percent in July from June on a monthly basis, matching the pace of the previous three months. Housing and utilities increased 0.9 percent that month, driven by a 7.1 percent surge in electricity, gas and other fuels, with entertainment up 0.4 percent, GASTAT figures show.
The inflation rate has remained at 1.8 percent since May, demonstrating recent stability in the kingdom’s price environment. Earlier in the year the March reading came in at 1.9 percent. Historical GASTAT records place the long-term average near 2.02 percent since 2000, with a peak of 11.1 percent reached in 2008.
Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority quarterly inflation reports have analyzed domestic price drivers, noting the influence of subsidies on essential goods and services in recent periods. The General Authority for Statistics has refined its data collection methods to deliver more detailed category insights for policymakers and analysts. July outcomes fall within the low single-digit range observed across much of 2026.
Information and communication prices held unchanged at an annual 0.6 percent gain while health costs eased to 0.3 percent and insurance along with financial services moderated to 1.4 percent, per the authority. These movements complete the CPI profile for the month. The General Authority for Statistics continues to issue monthly updates tracking shifts in the kingdom’s consumer prices.
