Saudi Arabia scores 73.2 in 2026 Global Pension Index, ranks 12th

Saudi Arabia placed 12th among 55 pension systems assessed in the 2026 Marsh CFA Institute Global Pension Index, recording an overall score of 73.2 out of 100, compared with 67.6 in 2025. The Kingdom ranked first among Gulf Cooperation Council countries in the assessment, which was published in collaboration with the Monash Centre for Financial Studies in October 2026.

Score increases across three pillars#

The Kingdom recorded gains across all three main pillars measured by the index. The Integrity score increased by 9.3 points, reaching 83.5 and earning an A rating in that category. The Sustainability score rose to 61.2 from 54.6 in 2025, while the Adequacy score increased to 77.2 from 75. The overall classification remained at B grade. The index evaluates pension systems based on more than 50 sub-indicators covering adequacy, sustainability and integrity.

15-place advance since 2022#

Saudi Arabia has moved up 15 places in the index since 2022. With a score of 73.2, the Kingdom's pension system was placed ahead of systems in the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Germany, Belgium, Ireland and Hong Kong, all of which hold B-band classifications. The 2026 edition of the index evaluates retirement systems across countries representing approximately two-thirds of the world's population.

Index methodology and coverage#

The Marsh CFA Institute Global Pension Index assesses retirement systems on their capacity to provide benefits to retirees while maintaining financial stability across time. The 18th edition of the index covers 55 pension systems globally. The Integrity pillar measures regulatory governance, communication with members and protection of participants' rights. The Sustainability and Adequacy pillars assess financial viability and benefit levels respectively.

GCC comparison and global standing#

Saudi Arabia maintained its leading position among participating Gulf countries in the 2026 assessment. The Kingdom's overall score of 73.2 placed it ahead of other GCC pension systems included in the index. The assessment was published by Marsh and the CFA Institute, with data covering pension system performance across multiple jurisdictions.