Despite attending a BRICS meeting in Brazil last week, Saudi Arabia has yet to formally join the alliance, according to a report that cites two sources familiar with the matter. The decision reflects the kingdom’s careful diplomatic balancing act as it seeks to preserve strategic ties with the United States while expanding partnerships with countries like China and Russia.
Saudi Arabia was first invited to join BRICS in 2023. While the official BRICS website lists the kingdom as a member, the sources confirmed that no formal accession has taken place. Riyadh’s hesitation comes at a time of sensitive negotiations with Washington over nuclear cooperation and advanced technology deals. The upcoming visit by former President Donald Trump has added to the geopolitical complexity, especially given his prior warnings against BRICS countries attempting to create or support an alternative global currency.
During the April 29 BRICS meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Saudi Arabia was represented by its deputy foreign minister, though the alliance failed to reach a consensus on a joint communiqué.
Riyadh is navigating a fine line: while it maintains the U.S. as its key defense and tech partner, China is now its largest oil customer. Trade between the two nations has surged, reaching $4.05 billion in February 2025—up over 20% from the previous year. Chinese investment in Saudi Arabia has totalled nearly $71 billion since 2005, underscoring deepening economic ties.
Meanwhile, the U.S. remains indispensable for Saudi defense and technology goals. A new arms package worth more than $100 billion is reportedly under negotiation, and could be unveiled during Trump’s visit.
Though BRICS has explored moving away from U.S. dollar dependence, the greenback remains dominant globally. A 2024 study by the Atlantic Council confirmed that alternative currencies have yet to seriously challenge the dollar’s status as the world’s primary reserve currency.
