Optimizing Investment Pipelines for 2026 Gulf Outlook

Sub-Saharan African countries account for around one-third of the total, followed by Latin America and the Middle East (the latter two together representing 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 five years pre- and post-pandemic ).

ANSR July GCC PRs 50DR+

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

reveals a significant boost in typical 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 agreements & non-oil exports push). vs its pre-pandemic reading (partially given the surge in medium & modern manufacturing data).

ANSR July GCC PRs 50DR+

Its diversification metrics have actually stagnated, showing the least improvement between the preliminary (2000-04) and final (2020-24) reference periods., regardless 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 task pipeline and application) and strong services sector performance.

How Economic Diversification Boosts GCC Stability for 2026

Kuwait and Saudi Arabia clocked in a boost in non-hydrocarbon income, "mainly showing non-hydrocarbon tax base growths and revenue collection efficiency enhancements", according to the IMF. In the existing geopolitical environment identified by heightening, it remains in the best interests of commodity dependent nations to diversify its export base, exports and trade partners.