Guide to Gulf Financial Equity Trends in 2026

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). 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 locations in 2024 compared to 2000 while Qatar climbed up 24; both Saudi Arabia and Oman increased 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 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 initial duration versus 2020-24). with UAE outshining in the trade sub-index (supported by recent 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 diversity metrics have actually stagnated, revealing the least enhancement in between the initial (2000-04) and final (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 demand (supported by a strong project pipeline and implementation) and strong services sector performance.

How Economic Expansion Boosts GCC Growth in 2026

Kuwait and Saudi Arabia clocked in an increase in non-hydrocarbon revenue, "mainly showing non-hydrocarbon tax base expansions and profits collection efficiency enhancements", according to the IMF. In the current geopolitical environment characterized by intensifying, it remains in the very best interests of product reliant countries to diversify its export base, exports and trade partners.