Dr. Jihad Azour, Director of the Middle East and Central Asia Department at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), confirmed that the UAE economy achieved the best performance among the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in 2025. He noted that the growth in Abu Dhabi's economy was the strongest driver for the UAE's economy, highlighting the country's continued efforts to enhance economic diversification and invest in vital sectors.
In a statement to the UAE's WAM news agency on the sidelines of the first day of Abu Dhabi Finance Week, Azour stated that investment in technology and artificial intelligence represents a central direction for GCC countries. He explained that investment in the technology and AI sectors is one of the key elements that GCC countries are focusing on in the coming years, describing this sector as very promising.
He confirmed that the financial sector in the Gulf countries is playing an increasingly important role, saying: "The role of the financial sector in GCC countries is also rising, whether in relation to financial technology sectors or in deepening financial markets."
Azour pointed out that the global economy is witnessing major transformations due to changes in economic policies, especially trade policies involving the imposition of tariffs, as well as the geopolitical situation in various regions worldwide.
He affirmed that despite shocks, the global economy has maintained an acceptable level of growth, while uncertainty and expectations remain very high, and this usually has negative repercussions on the economy over time.
Azour noted that the year 2026 is very important and will require close monitoring of the impact of economic policies on inflation, economic and trade activity, and financial markets.
Azour explained that the Middle East region has managed to maintain stable performance despite global challenges.
He added that this improvement is due to three main reasons. The first is linked to GCC countries' continued strong performance in the non-oil sector. The second reason is the increase in oil production in the Council's countries. The third reason is the ability of oil-importing countries to benefit from improved economic activity, tourism, and trade.
