The UAE’s tourism sector continued its strong upward trajectory in 2025, consolidating its position as one of the country’s most dynamic economic sectors, contributing AED257 billion ($70 billion) to GDP and setting new visitor records for the year, said a report.
The global GDP is projected to surge 2.8% in 2026, led by stronger momentum in the US and resilient exports from China, while the euro zone benefits from targeted fiscal support despite longer-term challenges, said Goldman Sachs Research in its new report.
The total Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the GCC states at current prices rose 3 percent to $588.1 billion in the first quarter of 2025 from $570.9 billion a year earlier, data from the Statistical Centre for the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC-Stat) showed on Monday.
Saudi Arabia’s structural shift toward non-oil revenue is strengthening the kingdom’s long-term economic resilience, while rapid growth in its digital economy is supporting efforts to diversify beyond hydrocarbons, according to top ratings agency S&P Global Ratings.
The sixth meeting of the Deputies of the International Monetary and Financial Committee (IMFC) has emphasised the importance of boosting global cooperation and coordinating economic policies to address geopolitical challenges and support sustainable economic growth.
Saudi economy is set to remain resilient, underpinned by strong oil-sector infrastructure and continued economic diversification, said a report. Revenues are projected to rise 1% in 2027 to SAR1.2 trillion ($314 billion), compared with the 2026 estimate, while government spending is likely to fall 3%.
The contribution of Saudi Arabia's private sector to the gross domestic product (GDP) has doubled in ten years, rising from SAR1.1 trillion ($293.31 billion) in 2016 to about SAR2.3 trillion ($613.28 billion) today, said Minister of Investment Khalid Al-Falih.
The GCC-EU Summit, which was scheduled to be held in Riyadh on October 24, has been rescheduled to a later date to be agreed upon by the GCC and European sides, said Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, GCC Secretary-General.
International co-operation and economic resilience remain key to overcoming global geopolitical and trade challenges, Finance and National Economy Minister Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa has said.
The UAE's advanced infrastructure, flexible regulatory environment and economic integration across its emirates are strengthening its appeal to international investors.
