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How to Invest in Saudi Aramco
Investing in Saudi Aramco — the world’s largest oil company and one of the most valuable firms globally — is accessible to international investors, though the process is a bit different compared to U.S.-listed stocks.
Whether you’re drawn to the energy sector or looking to diversify with exposure to Middle Eastern markets, here’s how to get started:
1. Choose a Brokerage That Offers International Stocks or Foreign Market Access
Saudi Aramco trades on the Tadawul (Saudi Stock Exchange) under the ticker 2222.SR.
U.S. investors can't buy Aramco shares directly through most domestic brokerages unless those platforms offer access to the Saudi exchange.
Interactive Brokers is one of the few platforms that may provide access to Tadawul-listed stocks through international trading capabilities.
Otherwise, exposure to Aramco typically comes through regional ETFs or mutual funds that invest in Middle Eastern equities.
Examples include:
iShares MSCI Saudi Arabia ETF (KSA) – A U.S.-listed ETF that holds a significant position in Saudi Aramco.
Franklin FTSE Saudi Arabia ETF (FLSA) – Another option focused specifically on Saudi equities.
These ETFs trade on U.S. exchanges in dollars, making them more convenient for U.S.-based investors.
2. Create and Fund Your Brokerage Account
If you’re using a platform like Interactive Brokers, you'll need to enable international market access. This often includes additional forms and a review of your trading experience.
To invest via an ETF such as KSA or FLSA, just open a standard brokerage account with any major U.S. broker — like Fidelity, Schwab, or E*TRADE — and fund it by linking your bank account.
Broker | Annual Fees | Best For |
|---|---|---|
E-Trade | 0% – 0.35%
0% on stocks and ETFs in self directed brokrage, 0.35% for Core Portfolio Robo Advisor
| Options & Futures Trading |
Interactive Brokers | 0% – 0.75%
$0 online commission on U.S. listed stocks and ETFs, Options: $0.15 – $0.65 per-contract, Futures: $0.25 – $0.85 per-contract. For Interactive Advisors: asset-based management fees of 0.10% to 0.75% | Professional Trading Tools |
Fidelity | 0% – 1.04%
Fidelity Go® Robo advisor: $0: under $25,000, 0.35%/yr: $25,000 and above
Fidelity® Wealth Management dedicated advisor: 0.50%–1.50%
Fidelity Private Wealth Management® advisor-led team: 0.20%–1.04%
| Retirement Account Investing |
Vanguard | Up to 0.30%
$0 online commission on U.S. listed stocks, mutual funds and ETFs, options: $0.65 per-contract, Vanguard Digital Advisor – 0.015%, Vanguard Personal Advisor: 0.03%, Vanguard Personal Advisor Select: up to 0.03%, Vanguard Wealth Management: up to 0.03% | Low-Cost ETF Investors |
J.P. Morgan Self Investing | $0
$0 online commission on U.S. listed stocks and ETFs and $0.65 per-contract | Chase Bank Customers |
Charles Schwab | Up to 0.80%
$0 online commission on U.S. listed stocks, mutual funds and ETFs, options: $0.65 per-contract, Schwab Intelligent Portfolio – 0%, Schwab Intelligent Portfolios Premium – One-time planning fee: $300 + Monthly advisory fee: $30, Schwab Wealth Advisory: up to 0.80% | Advanced Trading Tools |
Merrill Edge | 0.45% – 0.85%
0.45% for Merrill Robo Advisor (Guided Investing), 0.85% for Investing With An Advisor | Bank of America Clients |
Keep in mind:
Direct investment in Aramco means trading in Saudi riyals (SAR) and navigating foreign market regulations.
ETF investment means trading in U.S. dollars, which is far more streamlined.
Fractional investing may also be available for ETFs, allowing you to invest in Aramco exposure without needing to buy full shares.
3. Research Saudi Aramco’s Business and Financials
Before investing, it’s crucial to understand the unique characteristics of Aramco and its role in the global energy market. Some key factors to research:
Oil production dominance: Aramco is the world’s largest oil exporter, with vast reserves and low production costs.
Government ownership: The Saudi government retains a majority stake, which means political and national policy can influence business decisions.
Dividend policy: Aramco is known for strong dividend payouts, which are a key draw for investors seeking income.
Energy transition risks: Like all oil giants, Aramco faces long-term questions around renewables, decarbonization, and shifting global demand.
You can find financial data and performance metrics through platforms like Yahoo Finance or Morningstar website.
4. Place a Buy Order
Once you’ve done your research, log into your brokerage and search for one of the following:
2222.SR – If your broker supports direct purchases on the Tadawul.
KSA ETF – A U.S.-listed ETF with heavy Aramco exposure.
FLSA ETF – An alternative ETF focused on Saudi equities.
Then choose the order type:
Market order – Buys at the current available price.
Limit order – You set the maximum price you’re willing to pay.
How to Invest in Saudi Aramco Indirectly
If buying Aramco stock directly seems too complex or unavailable through your broker, here are alternative ways to gain exposure:
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Invest in ETFs That Hold Aramco
Several international and emerging-market ETFs include Aramco among their top holdings. These are great for gaining exposure without dealing with foreign exchanges:
iShares MSCI Saudi Arabia ETF (KSA) – Often allocates 10–15% to Aramco.
Franklin FTSE Saudi Arabia ETF (FLSA) – Offers similar exposure with a focus on large Saudi firms.
iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (EEM) – Includes Aramco indirectly through its Saudi holdings, though at a smaller weight.
These ETFs provide built-in diversification and are traded in U.S. dollars.
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Invest Through International Mutual Funds or Managed Portfolios
If you prefer a more hands-off approach, consider global or Middle East-focused mutual funds, or robo-advisors that allocate to emerging markets.
Examples:
Vanguard Emerging Markets Stock Index Fund (VEMAX) – May include Aramco via exposure to the Saudi market.
Schwab Intelligent Portfolios – Depending on your strategy, may include ETFs like KSA or FLSA.
This approach is best for long-term investors who want energy exposure without picking individual stocks.
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Invest in Aramco’s Competitors
If direct investment isn’t possible, you can also consider investing in global oil majors that compete with Aramco:
ExxonMobil (XOM) – A U.S. oil giant with global operations and strong dividends.
Chevron (CVX) – Known for shale, offshore, and international oil production.
TotalEnergies (TTE) – A European energy firm investing in both fossil fuels and renewables.
BP (BP) – A major player in global oil markets with ongoing energy transition initiatives.
These companies offer similar exposure to global energy markets, often with easier access and strong income potential.
