RIYADH — Saudi Arabia’s Business Confidence Index rose to 56.7 points in August 2026, up 0.2 points from 56.5 points in July, continuing to reflect optimism among businesses regarding economic activity. The index recorded increased confidence in the industry and services sectors during the month, while the construction sector registered a slight decline.The Business Confidence Index for the industry sector reached 55.8 points in August, rising by 1.04 points from 54.7 points in July. The increase was supported by stronger confidence in overall performance and employment prospects. The services sector index also increased to 56.1 points, compared with 55.3 points in the previous month, marking a rise of 0.9 points. The improvement was driven by greater optimism regarding overall performance and fixed investment spending. In contrast, the Business Confidence Index for the construction sector declined to 57.3 points in August from 57.7 points in July, a decrease of 0.4 points. The decline was attributed to lower confidence levels regarding current and expected input costs for the coming month.On a monthly basis, the Overall Business Confidence Index increased by 0.3 percent in August, following a decline of 0.05 percent in July.