Top Global Investment Trends across the Middle East Economy

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

shows 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 period versus 2020-24). with UAE outperforming in the trade sub-index (supported by recent bilateral trade arrangements & non-oil exports push). vs its pre-pandemic reading (partly provided the surge in medium & modern production data).

ANSR July GCC PRs 50DR+

Its diversity metrics have stagnated, showing the least improvement between the initial (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 efficiency.

Why Industrial Expansion Boosts GCC Stability for 2026

Kuwait and Saudi Arabia clocked in a boost in non-hydrocarbon earnings, "mainly reflecting non-hydrocarbon tax base expansions and income collection performance improvements", according to the IMF. In the current geopolitical environment defined by intensifying, it is in the best interests of commodity reliant countries to diversify its export base, exports and trade partners.