Gulf bank and real estate investments to reach $51.68bn by 2030: summit

Figures released ahead of the Global Investment Summit, set to take place in Paris on September 1-2, 2026, project that total investments in the banking and insurance, as well as construction and real estate sectors in the Gulf, will rise from $34.25 billion in 2023 to $51.68 billion by 2030—a $17.43 billion increase, representing nearly 51% growth.

The data show that investments in banking and insurance are expected to climb from $11.25 billion in 2023 to $19.4 billion by 2030, a rise of more than 72%. This growth is driven by the expansion of digital banking services, the rise of fintech solutions, and increased demand for financing and insurance linked to major projects and new economic activities.

The sector's growth is tied to the accelerating digital transformation of Gulf financial institutions, the development of payment systems, greater reliance on smart banking services, and the expanding needs of businesses and individuals for tailored financial

and insurance products.

Investments in construction and real estate are also expected to increase from $23 billion in 2023 to $32.28 billion by 2030, up nearly 40%. This is attributed to the ongoing development of cities, residential, commercial, and tourism projects, and rising demand for modern facilities, infrastructure, and real estate assets.

This growth reflects the continued implementation of major projects across Gulf countries, increased spending on urban development, and growing demand for housing, hospitality, office space, and logistics zones. It is also supported by expanding public-private partnerships in the development of real estate assets and projects.

Integration between the two sectors is boosting growth opportunities, as banks and insurance companies provide financing and risk management solutions for real estate and construction projects, while the expansion of these projects increases demand for credit, banking services, and insurance coverage.

The summit aims to direct 25% of investments toward advanced technologies and to implement environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards in 55% of targeted projects. This is expected to support the development of more efficient buildings, advanced financial services, and projects with long-term economic impact.

Summit data also indicate expected European investment inflows to Gulf Cooperation Council countries totaling $28.59 billion, alongside the development of 15 joint projects and the establishment of eight strategic partnerships in the first year. These initiatives will help finance

projects and expand European companies’ participation in Gulf markets.

The summit will bring together over 2,000 participants and 100 speakers, featuring 10 main sessions, 16 workshops, and more than 40 bilateral meetings. The program is designed to connect investors with promising opportunities and open new growth avenues in the financial, real estate, and construction sectors through 2030.