Saudi Arabia’s Military Budget Hits $78 Billion for 2025—A Strategic Power Play
Saudi Arabia Boosts Military Spending to $78 Billion in 2025, Strengthening Defense and Economic Localization

Saudi Arabia continues to assert its position as a dominant military power in the Middle East with record-breaking defense expenditures. The Kingdom spent $75.8 billion on its military in 2024, accounting for 3.1% of global defense spending. For 2025, Riyadh has earmarked $78 billion, making up 7.19% of its GDP, reflecting a steady and strategic investment in national security.
A Legacy of Military Growth
Saudi Arabia's military spending has seen a 4.5% annual increase since 1960, underscoring its commitment to maintaining one of the world's most formidable armed forces. With ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, these allocations signal a robust defense posture and a commitment to modernization.
Strategic Vision: Aligning Defense with Saudi Vision 2030
Ahmed bin Abdul Aziz Al-Ohali, Governor of the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), highlighted how Saudi Arabia’s defense strategy aligns with Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s blueprint for economic diversification. By focusing on localizing over 50% of military spending by 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to reduce dependency on foreign defense imports and strengthen its domestic military-industrial base.
At the Global Strategies in Defense and Aerospace Industry Conference in Antalya, Turkey, Al-Ohali emphasized the Kingdom’s efforts to attract foreign and domestic investments in military industries while fostering innovation.
Strengthening Global Partnerships
Saudi Arabia is forging strategic alliances with defense industry leaders, particularly with Turkey’s Defense Industries Authority and other international partners. These partnerships not only bolster security but also provide economic incentives through joint ventures, technology transfers, and local manufacturing initiatives.
Investment in Defense Supply Chains
To enhance self-reliance, GAMI has introduced 74 military supply chain opportunities, with 30 high-priority areas identified, accounting for 80% of future defense expenditures. These initiatives incentivize private sector participation, offering support to small and medium-sized enterprises in military production.
The Bigger Picture: Global Military Expenditures
Saudi Arabia’s defense spending is part of a broader trend of rising global military investments, which now total $2.44 trillion worldwide. With regional tensions, energy security concerns, and evolving defense technologies, Riyadh is positioning itself as a key player in the global defense landscape.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia's military budget reflects a calculated strategy to maintain regional dominance, secure national interests, and establish a self-sufficient defense industry. As the Kingdom invests in localization, international collaborations, and technological advancements, its military-industrial complex is set to evolve, ensuring a stronger, more independent national defense infrastructure for years to come.
