As of 2023, there were 57.6 million people living in the Gulf Cooperation Council. The biggest increase was seen in 2022 when the population grew by three million over the previous year.

The annual urban population growth in Oman increased by 1.5 percentage points (+25.91 percent) in 2023. In total, the urban population growth amounted to 7.27 percent in 2023. Nevertheless, the last two years recorded a significantly lower urban population growth than the preceding years.Urban population growth is the annual change in the share of people living in urban areas as defined by national statistical offices. Urban population growth is calculated using World Bank population estimates and urban ratios from the United Nations World Urbanization Prospects.Find more key insights for the annual urban population growth in countries like Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates.

The annual urban population growth in Qatar decreased by six percentage points (-100.84 percent) in 2023 in comparison to the previous year. The year 2023 marks a significant change in the urban population growth compared to the previous year. Urban population growth is the annual change in the share of people living in urban areas as defined by national statistical offices. Urban population growth is calculated using World Bank population estimates and urban ratios from the United Nations World Urbanization Prospects.Find more key insights for the annual urban population growth in countries like Kuwait and Oman.

In 2022, the United Arab Emirates had the highest employment rate amongst Gulf Cooperation Countries, at 75 percent. This was closely followed by Qatar at 72.6 percent. The remaining four GCC countries had employment figures around 50 percent. The overall employment average for the GCC in 2022 was 54 percent.

In 2020, Saudi Arabia had the highest number of employed population among the Gulf Cooperation Council countries amounting to around 13 million. In comparison Bahrain had the least number of employed population among the Gulf Cooperation Council countries in which 687 thousand were employed.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) had over 3.5 million overseas Indians residing in the country as of May 2024. Saudi Arabia had the second-highest Indian population among other GCC countries. 25 percent of overseas Indians reside in GCC countries. GCC, or the Gulf Cooperation Council, is a group of six nations – Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain.

In general, foreign direct investments (FDIs) play a crucial role in driving a country’s economic development, promoting diversification, and enhancing competitiveness. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, which heavily rely on the oil and gas sectors, are particularly vulnerable to fluctuations in commodity prices. However, these countries have recognized the imperative of economic diversification and have increasingly turned to inward FDIs to achieve it. By attracting capital, advanced technology, and expertise from foreign investors, FDIs enable the GCC countries to expand their economic base beyond the oil and gas sectors. This diversification not only creates employment opportunities but also fosters resilient economic growth, ultimately leading to an improvement in the living standards of the local population. This study investigates the macroeconomic and environmental factors that potentially attract foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows into the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in the long run. Additionally, the study explores the causal relationship between these factors and FDI inflows. The panel autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach to co-integration is the primary analytical technique used, utilizing long time-series data from six GCC countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) during the period 1990–2019. The empirical results indicate that, in the long run, almost all independent variables significantly influence FDI in GCC countries. Variables such as GDP growth (GDPG), inflation (INFL), carbon dioxide emissions (CO2), and urbanization (URB) are found to be highly significant (p≤0.01) in their impact on FDI. Moreover, unemployment (UNEMP) also positively and significantly influences FDI in these countries in the long run. Based on the key findings, strategies aimed at reducing persistently high unemployment rates, maintaining population growth, viewing FDI as a driver for GDP growth, and continuing with infrastructure development and urbanization are expected to attract more FDI inflows into GCC countries in the long run. Additionally, fostering both long-term economic incentives and creating a conducive business infrastructure for investors are vital for attracting inward FDI into any nation, including those in the GCC. This research would benefit various stakeholders, including governments, local businesses, investors, academia, and the local society, by providing valuable knowledge and informing decision-making processes related to economic development, diversification, and investment promotion.

This statistic describes the Native population in the Gulf Cooperation Council in 2016, by country. As of 2016, the native population of Saudi Arabia was about 21,2 million people.

Countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council vary significantly in size, population, and available budget. In 2023, three of the six GCC countries budgeted more than 15 percent of state expenditure on education. The remaining three budgeted between 9 and 11.5 percent each. GCC investment in education Investment in education has become a key priority for GCC countries in recent years. Countries like Qatar and the United Arab Emirates even have campuses of American universities like Northwestern, NYU, and Michigan State. In 2021, all countries in the council saw an increase in the share of student enrollment, with Saudi Arabia and Kuwait recording only a marginal increase and the UAE topping the list with the biggest jump. Despite rising student enrollment, the average student-to-teacher ratio in the region remains low.

Budget expenditure in the GCC Budget allocation for education comprised a significant share of the expenditure in most GCC countries. Saudi Arabia, which has the overwhelming share of schools in the GCC, dedicated the most significant portion of its budget to the education sector. Four out of the six countries spent a noticeably smaller portion of their expenditure on healthcare during the same period.

In general, foreign direct investments (FDIs) play a crucial role in driving a country’s economic development, promoting diversification, and enhancing competitiveness. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, which heavily rely on the oil and gas sectors, are particularly vulnerable to fluctuations in commodity prices. However, these countries have recognized the imperative of economic diversification and have increasingly turned to inward FDIs to achieve it. By attracting capital, advanced technology, and expertise from foreign investors, FDIs enable the GCC countries to expand their economic base beyond the oil and gas sectors. This diversification not only creates employment opportunities but also fosters resilient economic growth, ultimately leading to an improvement in the living standards of the local population. This study investigates the macroeconomic and environmental factors that potentially attract foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows into the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in the long run. Additionally, the study explores the causal relationship between these factors and FDI inflows. The panel autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach to co-integration is the primary analytical technique used, utilizing long time-series data from six GCC countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) during the period 1990–2019. The empirical results indicate that, in the long run, almost all independent variables significantly influence FDI in GCC countries. Variables such as GDP growth (GDPG), inflation (INFL), carbon dioxide emissions (CO2), and urbanization (URB) are found to be highly significant (p≤0.01) in their impact on FDI. Moreover, unemployment (UNEMP) also positively and significantly influences FDI in these countries in the long run. Based on the key findings, strategies aimed at reducing persistently high unemployment rates, maintaining population growth, viewing FDI as a driver for GDP growth, and continuing with infrastructure development and urbanization are expected to attract more FDI inflows into GCC countries in the long run. Additionally, fostering both long-term economic incentives and creating a conducive business infrastructure for investors are vital for attracting inward FDI into any nation, including those in the GCC. This research would benefit various stakeholders, including governments, local businesses, investors, academia, and the local society, by providing valuable knowledge and informing decision-making processes related to economic development, diversification, and investment promotion.

Evidence related to the national burden of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) largely fragmented. Thus, the aim of this study is to systemically review studies from GCC countries to assess the epidemiological profile of SCD. We searched combinations of key terms in MEDLINE/PubMed, CINAHL, and EMBASE. We selected relevant observational studies reporting the frequency, incidence, prevalence, risk factors, mortality rate, and complications of SCD among the GCC population. Studies restricted to laboratory diagnostic tests, experimental and animal studies, review articles, case reports and series, and conference proceedings and editorials were excluded. A total of 1,347 articles were retrieved, out of which 98 articles were found to be eligible and included in the study. The total number of participants from all the included studies was 3,496,447. The prevalence of SCD ranged from 0.24%–5.8% across the GCC and from 1.02%–45.8% for the sickle cell trait. Consanguineous marriage was a risk factor for likely giving children affected with hemoglobinopathies. The prevalence of SCD and its complications vary among GCC. Because of the high prevalence of SCD and its complications, health authorities should focus on more rigorous prevention and treatment strategies.

In general, foreign direct investments (FDIs) play a crucial role in driving a country’s economic development, promoting diversification, and enhancing competitiveness. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, which heavily rely on the oil and gas sectors, are particularly vulnerable to fluctuations in commodity prices. However, these countries have recognized the imperative of economic diversification and have increasingly turned to inward FDIs to achieve it. By attracting capital, advanced technology, and expertise from foreign investors, FDIs enable the GCC countries to expand their economic base beyond the oil and gas sectors. This diversification not only creates employment opportunities but also fosters resilient economic growth, ultimately leading to an improvement in the living standards of the local population. This study investigates the macroeconomic and environmental factors that potentially attract foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows into the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in the long run. Additionally, the study explores the causal relationship between these factors and FDI inflows. The panel autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach to co-integration is the primary analytical technique used, utilizing long time-series data from six GCC countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) during the period 1990–2019. The empirical results indicate that, in the long run, almost all independent variables significantly influence FDI in GCC countries. Variables such as GDP growth (GDPG), inflation (INFL), carbon dioxide emissions (CO2), and urbanization (URB) are found to be highly significant (p≤0.01) in their impact on FDI. Moreover, unemployment (UNEMP) also positively and significantly influences FDI in these countries in the long run. Based on the key findings, strategies aimed at reducing persistently high unemployment rates, maintaining population growth, viewing FDI as a driver for GDP growth, and continuing with infrastructure development and urbanization are expected to attract more FDI inflows into GCC countries in the long run. Additionally, fostering both long-term economic incentives and creating a conducive business infrastructure for investors are vital for attracting inward FDI into any nation, including those in the GCC. This research would benefit various stakeholders, including governments, local businesses, investors, academia, and the local society, by providing valuable knowledge and informing decision-making processes related to economic development, diversification, and investment promotion.

The GCC K-12 private education market exhibits robust growth, projected at a CAGR of 11.39% from 2019 to 2033. In 2025, the market size reached $30.41 billion. This expansion is fueled by several key drivers. A burgeoning population, coupled with rising disposable incomes and a strong emphasis on quality education, particularly within the private sector, are primary contributors. Parents are increasingly seeking international curricula (American, British, Arabic, CBSE, and others) to provide their children with globally competitive educational opportunities. The preference for smaller class sizes and a perceived higher quality of teaching within private institutions also contributes significantly to market growth. Furthermore, the presence of a large expatriate population further fuels the demand for international schools in the region. However, the market also faces certain constraints, such as fluctuating oil prices which may impact government spending on education and potential regulatory changes that could affect the sector. Despite these challenges, the long-term outlook remains positive, driven by sustained population growth and a continued commitment to private education among GCC families. The segmentation by curriculum highlights diverse preferences, with a strong demand for established international standards alongside local curricula. The competitive landscape is dynamic, with numerous international and local players vying for market share. Notable players include Al-Jazeera Academy, British International School of Jeddah, and GEMS Education, showcasing the diversity and established presence of key operators within the GCC. The market's segmentation by source of revenue (Kindergarten, Primary, Intermediary, Secondary) indicates a balanced demand across all educational stages. While precise revenue breakdowns for each segment aren't provided, a logical assumption based on typical market structures suggests a slightly higher concentration in the Primary and Secondary segments due to longer durations of enrollment. The regional distribution of market share is likely concentrated within the GCC countries themselves, with other regions showing relatively smaller contributions. Future growth will be heavily influenced by government education policies, economic conditions, and continued investment in private education infrastructure and resources. Further analysis of specific curriculum preferences within each GCC country would offer a more granular understanding of market dynamics and opportunities. This report provides a detailed analysis of the burgeoning GCC K-12 private education market, offering invaluable insights for investors, educators, and policymakers. The study covers the period from 2019 to 2033, with 2025 as the base year and forecasts extending to 2033. The report analyzes market size (in millions), segmentation, key trends, and future growth prospects across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations. High-search-volume keywords include GCC private schools, K-12 education market GCC, private education investment GCC, UAE K-12 market, Saudi Arabia private schools, and international schools GCC. Recent developments include: November 2023: GEMS International School unveiled its Innovation Hub. This hub has various sophisticated tools, including digital music production tools, 3D printing, coding resources, robotics, product design tools, and immersive technologies like Virtual Reality., March 2023: the UAE Ministry of Education unveiled plans to integrate AI tutors powered by ChatGPT into its classrooms. These innovative systems are designed to complement, rather than substitute, traditional teaching methods.. Notable trends are: British Curriculum Emerges as a Leading Choice in Gulf Education Landscape.

This statistic depicts the urban population growth in Gulf Cooperation Council in 2019, by country. In 2019, the urban population growth rate of the United Arab Emirates was around 1.67 percent, compared to 4.59 percent of Bahrain.

GCC Massive Open Online Course Market size was valued at USD 0.45 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 1.3 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 13.1% from 2025 to 2032.

Key Market Drivers:

Digital Transformation Initiatives: GCC countries are undertaking extensive digital transformation initiatives in education, with governments heavily investing in e-learning infrastructure and digital education platforms. According to the Saudi Ministry of Education, digital education investments reached SAR 6.1 billion (approximately USD 1.6 billion) in 2023, with a 125% increase in government-supported MOOC platforms since 2020.

Young Tech-Savvy Population: The GCC region has one of the world's youngest and most digitally connected populations, driving the adoption of online learning platforms and MOOCs. The UAE's Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre reports that 92% of the population aged 18-29 are active internet users, with 78% having participated in at least one online course by 2023.

GCC Faucet Market size is growing at a moderate pace with substantial growth rates over the last few years and is estimated that the market will grow significantly in the forecasted period i.e. 2024 to 2031.

Growing Disposable Income: As the population of the GCC countries becomes more affluent, more money is being spent on remodeling and home improvement projects. Customers are prepared to spend money on premium faucets that are stylish and long-lasting. Research Across the Board

Technological Developments: Manufacturers are always coming up with new and improved faucets that have features like temperature control, touchless operation, and water-saving technologies. Customers who are looking for efficiency and convenience are drawn to these developments.

Background: In the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries (Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, and Oman), as in the rest of the world, the COVID-19 has been spreading since 2019, and it had a significant impact on various aspects of life. The outbreak and the restrictive measures imposed by countries to stop the spread of the virus could harm the mental health condition of the general population. This cross-sectional study aims to assess the impact of the pandemic on mental health and investigate the potential risk factors.Methods: An online survey was collected from individuals in GCC countries from May to October 2020. The final sample included 14,171 participants, 67.3% females and 60.4% younger than 35 years old. The survey consisted of depression, Anxiety, Insomnia, and post-traumatic stress questionnaires. Crude and adjusted Odds ratios are calculated using simple and multivariable logistic regressions to investigate the association between risk factors and mental health issues.Results: Endorsement rates for depression were 11,352 (80.1%), 9,544 (67.3%) for anxiety, 8,845 (63.9%) for insomnia and 9,046 (65.2%) for post-traumatic stress. Being female and younger age were associated with a higher likelihood of developing depression, anxiety, insomnia, and post-traumatic stress. In addition, participants with underlying psychological problems were three times more likely to develop depressive and post-traumatic stress symptoms.Conclusion: According to the findings, women, youth, singles, divorced individuals, and individuals with pre-existing psychological and medical conditions are subject to a higher risk of mental health problems during the pandemic, which policy-makers should consider when imposing restrictive measures.

The GCC paper cup market, valued at approximately $XX million in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.40% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. The region's burgeoning food service industry, particularly the fast-growing Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) sector, significantly drives demand for disposable paper cups. Increased urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and a shift towards convenience and single-use packaging contribute to this demand. Furthermore, the expanding tourism sector in the GCC further boosts consumption, especially in events and hospitality. While environmental concerns regarding single-use plastics present a potential restraint, the increasing availability of eco-friendly and biodegradable paper cup alternatives is mitigating this impact. The market segmentation reveals a dominance of hot and cold paper cups across diverse applications, including QSRs, institutional settings, and other commercial uses. Key players like Arkan Mfg Paper Cup Company, SAQR Pack, and Huhtamaki OYJ are actively shaping the market landscape through product innovation, expansion strategies, and supply chain optimization. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of local and international players. Local manufacturers benefit from proximity to the market and understanding of regional preferences, while international companies leverage advanced technology and established brand recognition. Future growth will likely see a continued focus on sustainability, with manufacturers investing in recyclable and compostable options. The market's geographic distribution reflects the concentration of population and economic activity within the GCC, with major cities and high-traffic areas driving demand. Government initiatives promoting sustainable practices, coupled with consumer preference shifts, will further influence market dynamics in the coming years. While precise figures for individual GCC country market shares are not available, a reasonable estimate based on population density and economic indicators suggests a concentration of the market in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, with other countries contributing proportionally. This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the GCC paper cup market, offering invaluable insights for businesses operating within or seeking to enter this dynamic sector. With a study period spanning from 2019 to 2033, a base year of 2025, and a forecast period from 2025 to 2033, this report leverages historical data (2019-2024) to predict future market trends and growth opportunities within the GCC region. The report's value is in the millions of units, offering detailed market sizing and segmentation. This report is a must-read for investors, manufacturers, distributors, and anyone seeking a competitive edge in the thriving GCC paper cup market. Recent developments include: February 2022 - The United States-based firm Starbucks expanded in the GCC market by opening its 1,000th location. The global coffee house chain has over 22 years of operation in the region., December 2022- Alamar Foods, the franchisee for Domino's across the Middle East and countries, successfully established its 600th location in Dubai. With the rising demand for quick-service restaurants, proportional demand for beverages would escalate the need for paper cups in the region.. Key drivers for this market are: Rising Demand For on-the-go Consumption of Beverages, Sustainability Measures, Coupled with Recent Innovations, Have Played A Role in Extending Shelf Life of Products. Potential restraints include: Ongoing Market Fragmentation and the Dependence on Materials Expected to Affect Margins. Notable trends are: Hot Paper Cup to Witness Significant Growth.

GCC Multifunctional Furniture Market size was valued at USD 1.8 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 3.2 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 7.5% from 2025 to 2032.

Key Market Drivers:

Growing Urban Population in Small Living Spaces: The GCC region is experiencing rapid urbanization with a trend toward smaller living spaces in major cities, driving demand for space-saving multifunctional furniture solutions. In 2023, over 65% of new residential developments in major GCC cities featured apartments under 85 square meters, while urban population density increased by 28% in the past 5 years.

Rising Student and Young Professional Population: The increasing number of students and young professionals in GCC countries is driving the demand for affordable, flexible, and multifunctional furniture solutions. The number of university students in GCC countries increased by 45% between 2019-2023, with 72% of them living in private accommodations requiring furniture solutions.

This statistic depicts the share of urban population in the Gulf Cooperation Council region from 2005 to 2030. According to forecasts, by 2030 almost 84 percent of the GCC population will dwell in an urban setting.