Evaluating GCC Investment Incentives vs Emerging Peers

Sub-Saharan African countries represent around one-third of the total, followed by Latin America and the Middle East (the latter 2 together accounting for over 40% of the overall). Consisting of, there has 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 greater than others; UAE is up more than 45 places in 2024 compared to 2000 while Qatar climbed 24; both Saudi Arabia and Oman rose 17 ranks during the period. The trapped or even worse off countries are some parts of Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa where structural improvement has stalled.

shows a considerable increase in average EDI scores from 86.8 in 2000-04 to 92.6 in 2020-24, (up more than 10 points in the initial duration versus 2020-24). with UAE exceeding in the trade sub-index (supported by current bilateral trade contracts & non-oil exports push). vs its pre-pandemic reading (partially provided the surge in medium & high-tech production information).

ANSR July GCC PRs 50DR+

Its diversity metrics have actually stagnated, revealing the least enhancement between the preliminary (2000-04) and final (2020-24) referral periods., in spite of the headwinds of OPEC+ production cuts. A robust non-hydrocarbon expansion was supported by the GCC's robust domestic demand (supported by a strong project pipeline and execution) and strong services sector performance.

Guide to Gulf Financial Market Trends in 2026

Kuwait and Saudi Arabia clocked in a boost in non-hydrocarbon revenue, "primarily showing non-hydrocarbon tax base expansions and income collection effectiveness enhancements", according to the IMF. In the present geopolitical environment defined by intensifying, it remains in the very best interests of commodity dependent countries to diversify its export base, exports and trade partners.