IMF Assesses UAE Economy as Leading Performer in Gulf Region for 2025

According to an assessment by Jihad Azour, Director of the Middle East and Central Asia Department at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in December 2025, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) economy performed the strongest among Gulf Cooperation Council countries in 2025. The economic growth of Abu Dhabi was a primary driver, highlighting the country's continued efforts in economic diversification and investment in key sectors.

The assessment also noted that technology and artificial intelligence investments are key future focus areas for Gulf states, with the financial sector playing an increasingly significant role. Despite global economic challenges from policy shifts, trade tariffs, and geopolitics, the IMF viewed the Middle East region as maintaining overall stable development in 2025.