Regional finance leaders say stronger capital markets, record foreign investment and economic diversification are positioning the Middle East and North Africa as a leading destination for global capital.
The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is entering a new phase of economic growth, with investors increasingly viewing it as a long-term destination for global capital rather than simply a resilient emerging market.
That was the key message from the 13th Annual MENA Investor Conference hosted by Arqaam Capital in Dubai, where economists, investors and business leaders discussed the forces shaping the region’s financial future.
One of the strongest indicators of the UAE’s transformation came from Simon Ballard, who said that approximately 76% of the UAE’s GDP now comes from non-oil sectors, highlighting the success of the country’s long-term economic diversification strategy.
Between 2019 and 2024, the GCC attracted an estimated US$300 billion in foreign direct investment, with the UAE accounting for more than half of those inflows thanks to its stable economy, business-friendly policies and ability to attract global talent.
Dubai’s financial markets continue to expand
Hamed Ali outlined the continued growth of Dubai’s capital markets, revealing that:
- Market capitalisation is approaching AED 1 trillion
- Average daily trading has exceeded AED 1 billion for the first time
- Foreign investors now account for 51% of all trading activity
- Institutional investors represent around 70% of market volumes
- 84% of new investors joining the market in 2025 were international investors
The figures reflect Dubai’s increasing attractiveness to overseas investors and its growing role as an international financial centre.
GCC debt markets entering a major refinancing cycle
Conference speakers also highlighted the rapid development of GCC fixed-income markets.
An estimated US$508 billion in GCC debt is expected to mature between 2026 and 2030, creating significant refinancing opportunities for governments, banks and companies while further deepening regional capital markets.
Participants noted that GCC bonds are increasingly becoming a strategic allocation for global investors due to the region’s strong sovereign balance sheets and improving corporate fundamentals.
Dubai property market remains one of the world’s strongest
Dubai’s real estate sector was another major focus of discussion.
According to Aliaa Elesaaki, Dubai recorded approximately 58,000 property transactions worth AED176 billion by the end of April 2026.
Among the key trends:
- 73% of transactions were off-plan sales.
- Cash buyers continue to dominate the market.
- Only 4% of homes were resold within 12 months, compared with 17% and 25% during previous property cycles, suggesting today’s market is being driven more by end users than speculative investors.
The luxury market also continues to outperform globally.
Dubai accounted for 23% of all residential property sales above US$10 million worldwide in 2025, recording 500 ultra-luxury transactions, compared with 326 in New York and 261 in Los Angeles. During the first quarter of 2026 alone, the city registered 163 sales above US$10 million, the highest quarterly total on record.
MENA’s growing global role
Summing up the conference, Riad Meliti said the region has evolved beyond simply demonstrating resilience.
He said MENA is increasingly characterised by larger, more liquid and sophisticated capital markets, with opportunities expanding across equities, fixed income, private capital and technology.
As economies continue to diversify and investment opportunities broaden, the region is becoming an increasingly important destination for international investors.
Standout statistics
- 76% of UAE GDP now comes from non-oil sectors.
- US$300 billion in GCC foreign direct investment between 2019 and 2024.
- Dubai Financial Market approaching AED1 trillion in market capitalisation.
- Foreign investors account for 51% of DFM trading.
- US$508 billion in GCC debt to mature between 2026 and 2030.
- AED176 billion in Dubai property sales by April 2026.
- 73% of Dubai property transactions are off-plan.
- Dubai led the world in luxury home sales above US$10 million, recording 500 transactions in 2025.
