TEHRAN – The total value of planned and ongoing economic projects in Iran stands at $240 billion, according to figures published by Middle East Economic Digest (MEED).

The industry publication said in its latest review of Persian Gulf projects that the combined value of planned and active projects across eight countries in the region remained high as of January 2026, reflecting rising investment in construction and infrastructure.

Saudi Arabia topped the region with more than $2.1 trillion in planned and ongoing projects, followed by the United Arab Emirates with $1.15 trillion, MEED said.

Iraq ranked third with about $430 billion, followed by Oman at $300 billion and Qatar at $250 billion.

Iran, with projects valued at $240 billion, ranked sixth in the region, ahead of Kuwait with $230 billion and Bahrain with $80 billion, the report said.

Analysts cited by regional media said the Persian Gulf project market is expected to remain a key investment destination in West Asia in coming years, driven by long-term development plans.

MEED data showed that while the value of projects in six regional countries has followed a relatively stable trend since 2016, Saudi Arabia and the UAE recorded a sharp increase from 2023.

EF/MA