How Industrial Diversification Boosts GCC Growth in 2026

Sub-Saharan African countries represent 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 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 greater than others; UAE is up more than 45 places in 2024 compared to 2000 while Qatar climbed 24; both Saudi Arabia and Oman rose 17 ranks throughout the duration. The trapped or even worse off countries are some parts of Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa where structural change has stalled.

shows a considerable boost in typical EDI scores from 86.8 in 2000-04 to 92.6 in 2020-24, (up more than 10 points in the initial period versus 2020-24). with UAE surpassing in the trade sub-index (supported by recent bilateral trade agreements & non-oil exports push). vs its pre-pandemic reading (partially provided the rise in medium & high-tech production information).

ANSR July GCC PRs 50DR+

Its diversification metrics have stagnated, revealing 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 application) and strong services sector efficiency.

Future Middle East Market Shifts for 2026 World Markets

Kuwait and Saudi Arabia clocked in an increase in non-hydrocarbon income, "primarily reflecting non-hydrocarbon tax base expansions and earnings collection performance improvements", according to the IMF. In the existing geopolitical environment characterized by magnifying, it is in the best interests of commodity dependent nations to diversify its export base, exports and trade partners.