Why Industrial Diversification Drives Middle East Growth in 2026

Sub-Saharan African nations account for around one-third of the overall, 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 higher than others; UAE is up more than 45 locations in 2024 compared to 2000 while Qatar climbed 24; both Saudi Arabia and Oman rose 17 ranks throughout the duration. The trapped or worse off countries are some parts of Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa where structural transformation has actually stalled.

shows a considerable increase in typical EDI scores 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 outperforming in the trade sub-index (supported by recent bilateral trade agreements & non-oil exports push). vs its pre-pandemic reading (partially offered the surge in medium & high-tech production information).

ANSR July GCC PRs 50DR+

Its diversification metrics have actually stagnated, revealing the least enhancement between the preliminary (2000-04) and last (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 project pipeline and implementation) and strong services sector efficiency.

Future GCC Investment Trends for 2026 Global Markets

Kuwait and Saudi Arabia clocked in a boost in non-hydrocarbon income, "mainly showing non-hydrocarbon tax base expansions and profits collection performance enhancements", according to the IMF. In the current geopolitical environment identified by intensifying, it is in the finest interests of product reliant nations to diversify its export base, exports and trade partners.