GCC Workforce Agenda 2026: AI and Skills Development Drive Economic Transformation
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is undergoing significant economic transformation driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and skills development. Organizations in the region are prioritizing skills-based workforce models and AI-enabled HR systems to navigate complex business environments. Recent research indicates that 75% of employees in the Middle East have used AI tools at work in the past year, surpassing global averages. Additionally, 69% of employees have learned new skills within the same period. The adoption of AI across GCC organizations is estimated at 84%, with a potential economic impact of over $320 billion for the Middle East by 2030. This transformation is occurring amidst challenges such as rising costs, changing workforce expectations, and evolving regional conditions. 
