'Gulf Statistical Body': $426 Billion in Industrial Investments in GCC Countries
Growth of the Gulf industrial base by $426 billion and 22,000 factories.
Translated by Qiyas from السياسة — Original source
- Approximately 22,000 factories employ more than 1.7 million workers... and manufacturing contributes 13% to GDP
Data from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Statistical Bureau shows the growth and expansion of the industrial base in GCC countries. Industrial investments reached approximately $426 billion, with around 22,000 factories in operation and over 1.7 million workers employed in the industrial sector, according to the latest available statistical data as of July 2026.
In 2025, the manufacturing sector’s contribution to the GCC’s gross domestic product (GDP) reached approximately 13.0%, underscoring the importance of the industrial sector in supporting the economies of GCC member states, enhancing economic diversification efforts, and increasing the share of non-oil activities.
Approximately 40% of industrial investments are concentrated in key sectors, notably plastics, refined petroleum products, aluminum, gaseous fuels, iron, and steel. These industries form a crucial foundation for manufacturing and intermediate goods, supporting the integration of industrial value chains.
In terms of foreign trade, industrial products account for about 69% of the total exports of GCC countries. Key exports include petroleum gases, hydrocarbons, petroleum oils, vehicles, organic chemicals, aluminum, ships and boats, and electrical machinery and equipment.
Regarding imports, China accounts for approximately 20% of the total imports of GCC countries, making it the largest supplier. Major imported goods include machinery and equipment, vehicles, pharmaceutical products, iron and steel, and plastics, with diversified supply sources.
These indicators reflect the breadth and diversity of the Gulf industrial base, as well as the varying scale of industrial activity among GCC member states in terms of investments and the number of factories. This is occurring amid expanding production capacity, growing investments, and an expanding network of commercial markets, all of which strengthen the role of industry in supporting economic growth, developing value and production chains, and creating greater opportunities to enhance Gulf industrial integration, localize value chains, diversify the economic base, and raise the competitiveness of Gulf products and industry.
