RIYADH — Saudi energy giant Aramco said on Tuesday that its adjusted net income rose 9 percent year on year in the third quarter of 2026 to $31.2 billion, supported by the company's operational performance, flexibility and resilience.

Aramco said in a statement that adjusted net income increased from $28.6 billion in the same period of 2025.

Cash flow from operating activities reached $38.7 billion, compared with $36.1 billion a year earlier, while free cash flow rose to $28.2 billion from $23.6 billion.

The company's downstream adjusted earnings before interest and taxes rose 234 percent year on year, driven by stronger refining margins.

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On the upstream side, the company said production had started at the Zuluf crude oil increment, while other major projects, including Jafurah phase two, Fadhili Gas Plant expansion and Dammam development project, remained on track.

Aramco added that the East-West Pipeline continued to provide export flexibility, while the company was exploring additional overseas storage capacity and alternative export routes to strengthen its global supply network.

The company also said its acquisition of a 49-percent stake in HUMAIN, involving the transfer of assets and about 2.6 billion dollars in cash contributions, would expand its presence in the fast-growing artificial intelligence sector.

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Aramco President and CEO Amin H. Nasser said geopolitical uncertainty and attacks on key energy facilities had intensified pressure on global energy supplies during the third quarter, while the company's operational flexibility and supply network had enabled it to continue meeting customer demand.