World Cup Momentum Could Lift Gulf Travel and Consumer Spending
A record Arab presence at the 2026 tournament is expected to support regional airlines, hospitality groups, restaurants, streaming platforms and payment providers.
A record Arab presence at the 2026 tournament is expected to support regional airlines, hospitality groups, restaurants, streaming platforms and payment providers.
A series of new funding rounds and strategic transactions suggests investors are still backing regional growth stories despite the heavier geopolitical backdrop.
The carrier’s return to 13 Gulf destinations signals improving aviation conditions after a period of disruption that cut Indian airline capacity to the region.
Regional lenders entered 2026 with stronger earnings, record revenue and expanding credit, reinforcing the banking sector’s role in Gulf diversification.