Global Investors Remain Bullish on Gulf Economy

New Consulum–HarrisX survey finds 82% confident in Gulf's economic future

Global investors continue to show strong confidence in the Gulf region despite ongoing geopolitical tensions, with the majority expecting sustained economic growth, a stronger international role for the GCC, and a negotiated settlement to the US–Iran conflict, according to a new international survey released by Consulum and HarrisX.

The survey, conducted by MENA-based strategy and communications firm Consulum in partnership with global public opinion research company HarrisX, polled 2,043 investors across the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and China.

The findings suggest that international investors remain committed to the Gulf, viewing the region as resilient and well-positioned for long-term growth despite current regional challenges.

Strong Confidence in Gulf Economy

According to the survey, 82% of global investors expressed confidence in the Gulf's economic outlook.

China recorded the highest level of confidence at 91%, followed by the United States and the United Kingdom at 84% each. Germany registered 80%, while France recorded 71%.

In addition, 69% of respondents described the Gulf as either a "good" or "great" place to invest or conduct business.

James Davies, Chief Executive Officer of Consulum, said the findings reflect long-term confidence rather than a short-term reaction to geopolitical developments.

"The international investment community sees the Gulf's economic story as one of sustained momentum. Investors are making a long-term judgement on the strength and resilience of what the GCC has built," he said.

GCC's Global Economic Influence Expected to Grow

The survey also found that 70% of international investors believe the GCC's importance in the global economy will increase over the next five years.

The strongest expectations came from the United Kingdom (78%), followed by the United States (74%), China (70%), Germany (65%), and France (61%).

The results reinforce the perception that the Gulf has become an established and increasingly influential player in the global economy.

Majority Expect Negotiated US–Iran Agreement

A significant 71% of investors expect the US/Israel–Iran conflict to conclude through diplomatic negotiations rather than prolonged confrontation.

Support for a negotiated outcome was highest in the United Kingdom (77%), followed by the United States (71%), France (70%), Germany (69%), and China (67%).

The survey also found that 71% of investors want Gulf countries to play an active role in the peace process, with 32% supporting direct participation in negotiations and 39% favouring a behind-the-scenes facilitation role.

Dritan Nesho, Chief Executive Officer of HarrisX, said investors believe a negotiated agreement involving regional stakeholders would help ensure stability and secure navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

He noted that most investors remain patient and optimistic that diplomatic efforts will continue to make progress.

Investor Confidence Mirrors Public Sentiment Across GCC

The findings align with a separate Consulum–HarrisX survey conducted in May 2026 among nationals and residents of Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.

The regional survey found that 90% of respondents believe their country is moving in the right direction, while 89% expressed confidence in the future economic outlook.

Public confidence in national economies exceeded 90% across each of the four markets surveyed.

In Bahrain, nearly eight in ten respondents said the country is on the right path, while 76% believed the national economy is moving in the right direction.

Ranulph Murray, Head of Consulum Intelligence, said the two surveys demonstrate a strong alignment between international investors and Gulf residents.

"The confidence shown by global investors is matched by the optimism of people living and working across the region. That alignment reflects a level of confidence in the Gulf that is structural, long-term, and well established," he said.