Key Highlights of the 2026 Index

• GCC Regional Average: 66.9 points.
• Global Average: 59.9 points.
• The Margin: The GCC surpassed the worldwide average by a substantial 7 points, signaling high levels of economic freedom and stability across member states.

The index classifies countries based on four main pillars: Rule of Law, Government Size, Regulatory Efficiency, and Market Openness. All GCC nations maintained or improved their scores compared to 2025, ranking among the top seven Arab economies.

Tangible Progress in Economic Diversification

The data reflects a strategic shift towards non-oil activities, proving that diversification is no longer just a vision but a reality. While the oil and gas sector remains a vital contributor (22.0% of nominal GDP in Q3 2025), non-oil sectors are showing impactful growth:

• Manufacturing: 12.4%
• Wholesale & Retail Trade: 9.7%
• Construction: 8.4%
• Public Administration & Defence: 7.5%
• Financial & Insurance Activities: 7.0%
• Real Estate: 5.8%

Nominal GDP across the GCC reached approximately $595 billion in Q3 2025, a 2.2% annual growth. Even more impressive was the Real GDP growth of 5.2%, reflecting a genuine improvement in economic activity beyond price fluctuations.

Sustainability and Food Security

Despite environmental challenges such as limited arable land and water scarcity, the GCC recorded strong performance in agriculture, livestock, and fisheries.

• The sector’s contribution to the GDP reached approximately $40 billion in 2024.
• This represents a 5.1% increase compared to 2023, highlighting the region’s focus on food security as a pillar of long-term economic stability.

The Road Ahead

The improvement in the Economic Freedom Index is expected to further attract foreign direct investment (FDI), stimulate job creation, and enhance the overall competitiveness of the region. This progress underscores the success of ongoing economic policies and structural reforms aimed at building a sustainable, non-oil dependent future.

Disclaimer: This report is based on data provided by the GCC Statistical Centre (GCC-Stat) and official economic bulletins as of May 2026. Economic indicators are subject to market volatility. Investors and readers should consult official financial advisories for specific regional data.

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