Middle East Firms Distribute $29.2 Billion in Q1 Dividends

Jul 25, 2026

56 min

Jul 25, 2026 01:30

Middle East companies paid $29.2 billion in Q1 dividends while global payouts climbed

## Regional Dividend Overview

In the first quarter of 2026, companies in the Middle East distributed $29.2 billion in dividends. Saudi Arabia was the leading contributor, responsible for nearly 84% of this total, with payouts amounting to approximately $24.5 billion. Qatar followed with $2 billion, while UAE firms distributed $1.7 billion.

## Global Dividend Trends

Globally, dividends rose by 10.1% year-on-year, reaching $424.5 billion. This increase occurred despite economic challenges such as rising interest rates and geopolitical uncertainties. Share buybacks globally were slightly higher than dividends, totaling $425.7 billion, though they saw a 3.1% decline from the previous year.

## Sector Contributions

Financial companies led the way in both dividends and share buybacks, distributing $90.8 billion in dividends and conducting $110.7 billion in buybacks. The basic materials sector experienced the fastest growth in dividends, driven by demand for minerals like copper and lithium.

## Future Outlook

Janus Henderson forecasts global dividend growth of 8.3% for 2026, with buybacks expected to decrease by 1.1%. Despite potential challenges, such as high interest rates and geopolitical risks, company earnings remain robust, supporting a positive outlook for dividends.

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