Our partnership with the Middle East

London Stock Exchange has been a key partner to the Middle East in its efforts to integrate the region’s domestic capital markets and economies with the world’s. We are currently the number one exchange for companies seeking to list equity internationally, having hosted more IPOs from the region than any other stock exchange globally.

Supporting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030

1. FTSE Emerging Index Series (Saudi Arabia)
   In the spirit of building partnerships and fuelling the evolution of capital markets in the Middle East, London Stock Exchange Group has supported the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in achieving a key pillar of its Vision 2030. The Kingdom’s transition from Unclassified to Secondary Emerging Market status by FTSE Russell has helped expedite the CMA’s agenda of internationalizing and reforming its capital market. The move is expected to attract an incremental estimated $6-7bn. Upon completion, Saudi Arabia is expected to be the largest capital markets within Middle East and Africa and comprise circa 3% of the FTSE Emerging index. You can read more about the FTSE Saudi Arabia index here.
    
2. The Leading International Sukuk Financier
   Over 60 Sukuk have been issued on our markets raising over $50bn.
    
3. Saudi Aramco’s debut bond
   In 2019, we welcomed the inaugural $12bn debut bond from Saudi Arabian Oil Company (ARAMCO). This was a landmark issuance from Saudi Aramco, which is currently the largest emerging market bond and largest corporate bond ever issued from the Middle East. Saudi Aramco's decision to list this landmark transaction on our markets reflects the confidence in London Stock Exchange to cater to international investor demand for marquee transactions and the UK’s position as a global financial centre, with a robust but fair regulatory regime.