The latest SME Confidence Index shows that 75% of Saudi small business leaders remain confident about the next 12 months.
According to the research, these enterprises are actively investing in growth and digital transformation. Consequently, 67% of these businesses reported revenue growth over the past year.
The study captures the sentiment and priorities of small and medium enterprises across multiple markets. Specifically, the 2026 edition of the SME Confidence Index tracked how local businesses navigate immediate operational and macroeconomic challenges. While pre-conflict benchmarks showed 92% confidence, subsequent tracking adjusted to a resilient 75%.
Digital transformation remains a primary focus for these businesses in the economy. More than seven in ten owners state that digital payments are important to help them grow faster. Meanwhile, 77% of surveyed businesses accept online payments, while 67% accept card payments and 54% accept mobile payments.
SME Confidence Index Key Findings
Maintaining and growing the business is a priority for 61% of entrepreneurs. In addition, 49% expect revenues to continue growing over the next 12 months. Notably, businesses identified simple payment methods (73%) and multi-channel acceptance (58%) as key growth drivers.
Digital Payments Drive Growth
Onur Kursun from Mastercard stated that entrepreneurial businesses continue to demonstrate adaptability despite macroeconomic challenges. Their focus on digital capabilities serves as a buffer against short-term pressures. As a result, this enables them to compete more effectively in a changing marketplace.
Funding and Security Needs
Access to finance remains an important consideration for future expansion. While only 18% of businesses sought external funding last year, 22% are looking for credit to support future growth. Furthermore, 16% seek funding to maintain current business operations.
Businesses also identified a need for better physical and digital security. Specifically, they seek new ways to protect their daily operations from emerging threats. This highlights the growing importance of cybersecurity measures for local enterprises.
Collaboration and Support
To support these businesses, Mastercard has launched the Cyber Resilience Center in Riyadh. This center supports organizations with advanced security capabilities. Meanwhile, the company’s Built Small. Moving Strong initiative equips businesses with apps and tools to grow with confidence.
The Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority, Monsha’at, commented that these businesses are a vital part of economic transformation. Through Saudi Vision 2030, the authority remains focused on supporting these enterprises with opportunities to scale. Consequently, this collaboration supports long-term private sector growth.
