https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/saudi-economy-shrank-at-slower-pace-before-houthi-escalationContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/saudi-economy-shrank-at-slower-pace-before-houthi-escalationhttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/saudi-economy-shrank-at-slower-pace-before-houthi-escalation#u175905Thu, 05 Nov 2026 01:21:29 +0000Saudi Arabia's economy shrank 3.8% in the third quarter, continuing a second consecutive quarter of contraction. While the oil sector fell 20.4%, non-oil growth accelerated to 1.9%. This decline represents a slower pace of shrinkage compared to the 4.7% contraction in the previous quarter. The downturn is driven by disrupted oil production and exports resulting from conflicts involving Iran and Yemen's Houthi rebels. Despite these losses, the kingdom maintains its credit standing while relying on non-oil engines to absorb external shocks.Why it mattersThe kingdom is attempting to div