The UAE delivered the strongest economic performance in the GCC in 2025, driven largely by Abu Dhabi’s robust expansion and the country’s continued push toward diversification, according to a senior International Monetary Fund official.
Dr. Jihad Azour, Director of the Middle East and Central Asia Department at the IMF, said on the sidelines of Abu Dhabi Finance Week that Abu Dhabi’s growth played a central role in elevating the UAE’s overall results. He highlighted the nation’s sustained investments in vital sectors that support long-term economic resilience.
Azour pointed to technology and artificial intelligence as key areas shaping future growth strategies across the Gulf. He described the sector as highly promising and noted that GCC states are accelerating investment to strengthen their competitive edge.
He added that the financial sector is gaining greater importance in the region, with advances in fintech and efforts to deepen financial markets contributing to broader economic development.
Discussing the global outlook, Azour said the world economy has held up despite policy shifts, rising tariffs, and geopolitical tensions. He cautioned, however, that uncertainty remains elevated and could weigh on economic performance over time.
Looking ahead, Azour described 2026 as a pivotal year that will require careful monitoring of policy impacts on inflation, economic activity, trade, and financial markets.
He noted that the Middle East has maintained stability despite global challenges, supported by the strong performance of non-oil sectors in Gulf economies, increased oil production, and improved tourism and trade activity in oil-importing countries.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
