Title: Unravelling the determinants of FDI in the GCC: a multifaceted analysis of economic, regulatory, and institutional factors

Authors: Pallavi Kishore

Addresses: Middlesex University Dubai, Dubai, UAE

Abstract: The remarkable surge of foreign direct investment (FDI) in the non-oil sectors of the Gulf countries over the past decade signifies a pivotal shift in their economic landscape. This surge has been driven by the urgent need to diversify these economies and ensure sustainable growth, given the challenges posed by depleting oil resources and volatile prices. In response to this imperative, there arises a critical need to investigate and comprehend the 'other' factors that exert influence over FDI inflows in the region. To address this knowledge gap, a comprehensive study was conducted, employing advanced panel data techniques and analysing data from the six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Notably, market size, infrastructure development, trade openness, inflation levels, and political stability emerged as crucial factors driving FDI. Conversely, the study did not find a significant association between FDI inflows and the variables of risk and competition.

Keywords: Gulf Cooperation Council; GCC; non-oil determinants; foreign direct investment; FDI; panel data; ordinary least square; OLS; random effects.

DOI: 10.1504/IJBFMI.2024.141741

International Journal of Business Forecasting and Marketing Intelligence, 2024 Vol.9 No.4, pp.423 - 433

Received: 20 Aug 2023
Accepted: 23 Aug 2023
Published online: 01 Oct 2024 *

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