Key Drivers Influencing GCC Economic Outlooks by 2026 thumbnail

Key Drivers Influencing GCC Economic Outlooks by 2026

Published Aug 23, 26
2 min read


Sub-Saharan African nations represent around one-third of the total, followed by Latin America and the Middle East (the latter 2 together representing over 40% of the overall). Consisting of, 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+ANSR July GCC PRs 50DR+


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

shows a substantial increase in typical EDI ratings from 86.8 in 2000-04 to 92.6 in 2020-24, (up more than 10 points in the preliminary period versus 2020-24). with UAE outperforming in the trade sub-index (supported by recent bilateral trade agreements & non-oil exports push). vs its pre-pandemic reading (partially offered the rise in medium & modern production data).

ANSR July GCC PRs 50DR+ANSR July GCC PRs 50DR+


Its diversification metrics have stagnated, showing the least enhancement between the initial (2000-04) and last (2020-24) recommendation periods., regardless of the headwinds of OPEC+ production cuts. A robust non-hydrocarbon growth was supported by the GCC's robust domestic need (supported by a strong task pipeline and execution) and strong services sector performance.

Benefits of Allocating Capital in Emerging Markets

Frameworks for Asset Allocation for 2026 Global Markets

Kuwait and Saudi Arabia clocked in a boost in non-hydrocarbon earnings, "mostly reflecting non-hydrocarbon tax base growths and profits collection performance improvements", according to the IMF. In the existing geopolitical environment defined by heightening, it is in the very best interests of product reliant countries to diversify its export base, exports and trade partners.

Share us on...

Latest Posts

Analysing the 2026 GCC Economic Outlook

Published Aug 28, 26
3 min read

How Economic Shifts Can Shape GCC Markets

Published Aug 28, 26
4 min read

Assessing GCC Investment Resilience for 2026

Published Aug 28, 26
4 min read