The World Bank forecasts economic growth in the Middle East and North Africa region will reach 3.6% in 2026 before accelerating to 3.9% in 2027. The downward revision primarily reflects larger-than-expected oil production increases from major petroleum countries in 2025 and consequently anticipates lower expansion in 2026-2027. The report indicates MENA regional activity has already strengthened, primarily through rising oil production in exporting countries and private sector dynamism in oil-importing countries. Conversely, the Bank indicates non-GCC oil-exporting countries’ growth rates should remain relatively weak, averaging around 2% annually in 2026-2027. In oil-importing countries, the World Bank forecasts growth should increase slightly, reaching an average 4% annually in 2026-2027, though with notable variations across economies.

Source: The North Africa Journal January 15, 2026 15:15 UTC