The Middle East and North Africa region is expected to grow faster than the global economy next year, according to a Mastercard economic outlook. Their analysts predict MENA's real GDP will expand by three point six percent, beating the worldwide average of three point one. This performance is tied to big structural reforms, government spending, and a major tech push. Countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE are leading the charge with national AI strategies, moving beyond just testing into full-scale implementation.
A key sign of this shift is in construction, where tech projects like data centers now make up over twenty percent of non residential building. That is a huge jump from just two percent ten years ago. Over in Africa, the report highlights a digital payments boom, with Mastercard's network acceptance growing nearly fifty percent last year. Consumer spending should stay strong in major markets, including Nigeria and Kenya. This digital expansion is helping small businesses compete using new tools.
Risks still loom, however, as noted by the institute's chief economist. Geopolitical issues and climate problems are persistent threats. Inflation is also a split story, expected to stay low in Gulf oil exporters but remain stubbornly higher in oil-importing nations, squeezing household budgets there. The overall picture is one of resilience, driven by deliberate digital transformation efforts across both regions.
A key sign of this shift is in construction, where tech projects like data centers now make up over twenty percent of non residential building. That is a huge jump from just two percent ten years ago. Over in Africa, the report highlights a digital payments boom, with Mastercard's network acceptance growing nearly fifty percent last year. Consumer spending should stay strong in major markets, including Nigeria and Kenya. This digital expansion is helping small businesses compete using new tools.
Risks still loom, however, as noted by the institute's chief economist. Geopolitical issues and climate problems are persistent threats. Inflation is also a split story, expected to stay low in Gulf oil exporters but remain stubbornly higher in oil-importing nations, squeezing household budgets there. The overall picture is one of resilience, driven by deliberate digital transformation efforts across both regions.
