Saudi Arabia is 7th most optimistic nation globally: Report

Saudi Arabia has emerged as one of the most trusting and least polarized countries in the world, according to the latest Trust Barometer report from Edelman, the leading global communications firm.

The company measures levels of trust from more than 32,000 respondents in 28 countries across business, government, media and NGOs.

The 2023 report, titled “Navigating a Polarized World,” examines the lack of trust amid a feared economic collapse and how institutions can build trust in a divided world.

The report also shows that Saudi Arabia is the seventh most optimistic country, defying the trend of economic pessimism and polarization.

Elevated levels of trust were found across all institutions, including a strong trust in government at 83 percent. By comparison, the global average of trust in government is only 50 percent.

Additionally, 73 percent of Saudis trust business, 79 percent of Saudi employees trust their employers, and 73 percent buy products based on their beliefs and values. Trust in NGOs came in third at 66 percent. The World Health Organization was found to be the most trusted multinational organization, ahead of the UN and the EU.

Kenana Dahlan, general manager of Edelman Saudi Arabia, said: “The Edelman Trust Barometer has proven to be an invaluable tool in highlighting critical global issues. In Saudi Arabia, the results indicate an increase in trust toward the government, which is now viewed as a key player in driving positive change alongside the business community.

“Furthermore, the survey shows that Saudi Arabia has emerged as the most unified country amongst all those surveyed, indicating a strong sense of national cohesion and solidarity.”