Why Industrial Expansion Drives Middle East Growth in 2026

Sub-Saharan African countries account for around one-third of the overall, followed by Latin America and the Middle East (the latter 2 together accounting for over 40% of the total). Consisting of, 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 places in 2024 compared to 2000 while Qatar climbed 24; both Saudi Arabia and Oman increased 17 ranks during the duration. The caught or even worse off countries are some parts of Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa where structural transformation has actually 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 preliminary duration versus 2020-24). with UAE outshining in the trade sub-index (supported by current bilateral trade contracts & non-oil exports push). vs its pre-pandemic reading (partly given the rise in medium & modern manufacturing information).

ANSR July GCC PRs 50DR+

Its diversification metrics have actually stagnated, showing the least enhancement in between the preliminary (2000-04) and last (2020-24) reference 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 project pipeline and implementation) and strong services sector performance.

How Economic Diversification Drives GCC Growth in 2026

Kuwait and Saudi Arabia clocked in an increase in non-hydrocarbon profits, "mostly reflecting non-hydrocarbon tax base growths and revenue collection efficiency improvements", according to the IMF. In the existing geopolitical environment identified by magnifying, it is in the very best interests of product dependent nations to diversify its export base, exports and trade partners.