Middle East economy to shrink 2.1% in 2026, Gulf economies by 4.3%, World Bank forecasts...

The World Bank forecasts the Middle East economy will shrink 2.1 percent in 2026, with Gulf economies contracting by 4.3 percent.

Regional economies could rebound by 7.8 percent in 2027 if the current conflict ends this year, though a potential Hormuz blockade and persistent inflation remain key risks.