S. Arabia’s annual inflation up to 2.0% in Jan

Saudi Arabia’s annual inflation rate reached 2.0 per cent in January 2025 compared to a year earlier, driven by an 8.0 per cent rise in housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuel costs.

Rental prices surged by 9.7 per cent, particularly villa rentals, which increased by 7.7 per cent. Food and beverage prices rose by 0.8 per cent, with vegetables up 5.6 per cent, while personal goods and services saw a 3.3 per cent increase, mainly due to a 21.6 per cent rise in jewellery and watch prices.

In contrast, transportation costs declined by 1.9 per cent, affected by a 2.8 per cent drop in vehicle prices. Furnishing and home equipment prices fell by 2.4 per cent, while clothing and footwear recorded a 1.5 per cent decrease.

On a monthly basis, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inched up by 0.3 per cent in January from December 2024, supported by higher housing and food prices. Transportation, personal goods and services, and furnishing costs also increased, while communication and education prices saw slight declines.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English