GCC Countries Top Competitiveness Indicators for 2026
The Statistical Center of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries confirmed yesterday that the GCC member states’ advanced positions in several key indicators of the Global Competitiveness Report 2026 reflect the strength of their economic and institutional performance, as well as their leadership in many developmental fields.
In a report, the Center stated that the results achieved by Gulf countries in the Global Competitiveness Yearbook highlight their “advanced standing” in international competitiveness indicators, and confirm the success of their economic policies and structural reforms implemented to enhance business environments, achieve sustainable development, and raise competitiveness levels globally.
The report reviewed the results of the six Gulf states in this year’s competitiveness book, noting that the United Arab Emirates topped the “International Trade” indicator and ranked first globally in the “Economic Performance” pillar, thereby confirming “the strength of its trade openness and the competitiveness of its economy.”
Regarding Qatar, the report pointed out that its second-place global ranking in the “Labor Market” indicator within the “Business Efficiency” pillar reflects “the efficiency and attractiveness of its labor market.”
As for Kuwait, the report confirmed that its third-place ranking in the “Public Finance” indicator within the “Government Efficiency” pillar reflects “the soundness of its financial situation and the efficiency of public resource management.”
Regarding the Kingdom of Bahrain, it noted that its third-place global ranking in the “Price Stability” indicator within the “Economic Performance” pillar confirms “the success of its policies in maintaining economic stability.”
As for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, it clarified that its third-place global ranking in the “Infrastructure” indicator within the “Infrastructure” pillar confirms “the continuous development in infrastructure projects and their role in supporting economic growth.”
As for the Sultanate of Oman, the report highlighted its achievement in the “Tax Policy” indicator within the “Government Efficiency” pillar, where it ranked sixth, confirming that this is “an accomplishment that reflects the competitiveness of the tax environment and its role in enhancing investment attractiveness.”
The International Institute for Management Development (IMD), headquartered in Switzerland, annually publishes the Global Competitiveness Report, which serves as a reference for government policymakers, business leaders, and investors, as it includes an assessment of the policies and economic performance of participating countries. The Institute focuses on four main pillars when ranking countries’ competitiveness: “Economic Performance,” “Government Efficiency,” “Business Efficiency,” and “Infrastructure.”
