Upcoming GCC Investment Trends for 2026 World Markets

Sub-Saharan African countries account for around one-third of the total, followed by Latin America and the Middle East (the latter 2 together accounting for over 40% of the total). Including, there has actually been an (from 90.3 in 2000-04 to 92.6 and 92.3 in the 5 years pre- and post-pandemic ).

ANSR July GCC PRs 50DR+

and ranked higher than others; UAE is up more than 45 locations in 2024 compared to 2000 while Qatar climbed 24; both Saudi Arabia and Oman rose 17 ranks throughout the duration. The trapped or worse off nations are some parts of Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa where structural change has actually stalled.

reveals a significant increase in average EDI ratings from 86.8 in 2000-04 to 92.6 in 2020-24, (up more than 10 points in the preliminary duration versus 2020-24). with UAE outshining in the trade sub-index (supported by current bilateral trade contracts & non-oil exports push). vs its pre-pandemic reading (partially offered the surge in medium & modern production data).

ANSR July GCC PRs 50DR+

Its diversification metrics have stagnated, revealing the least improvement between the preliminary (2000-04) and last (2020-24) referral periods., despite the headwinds of OPEC+ production cuts. A robust non-hydrocarbon expansion was supported by the GCC's robust domestic demand (supported by a strong job pipeline and execution) and strong services sector performance.

Why Middle East Emerging as Primary Industrial Powerhouse?

Kuwait and Saudi Arabia clocked in an increase in non-hydrocarbon income, "primarily showing non-hydrocarbon tax base growths and income collection performance improvements", according to the IMF. In the present geopolitical environment defined by intensifying, it is in the very best interests of product dependent nations to diversify its export base, exports and trade partners.