The Rise of Consulting in the Gulf: A Region of Opportunity and Growth

The global consulting industry has faced significant challenges in recent years, with growth slowing in key markets like the U.S. and U.K. However, one region has emerged as a bright spot: the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which includes countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman. The GCC has become a hub for consulting firms, driven by ambitious national development projects and a growing demand for expertise in diversifying economies. This shift has not only transformed the region but also given international consultancies a unique level of influence in shaping its future.

A Boom in the GCC Consulting Market

The GCC consulting market has experienced unprecedented growth, with the region seeing a 13.2% increase in 2023, according to UK-based research firm Source Global. This growth stands in stark contrast to more mature markets like the U.S. and U.K., where growth slowed to 5.2% and 4.7%, respectively. Dane Albertelli, a senior analyst at Source Global, described the GCC as "the place for opportunity" where consulting firms can "make a lot of money." With the GCC market expected to grow by more than 15% in 2024, it is clear that the region is becoming a critical destination for consultants.

The roots of this boom can be traced back to the UAE’s efforts over the past 20 years to diversify its economy away from oil. Heavy investments in tourism, aviation, real estate, and financial services created a demand for planning and technical expertise, drawing in international consulting firms. This "cascade" of opportunities has since spread to other GCC nations, with Saudi Arabia leading the charge through its ambitious Vision 2030 strategy. The strategy involves a $1 trillion investment to reduce reliance on oil revenues and elevate the country’s global standing. Projects like the futuristic city of Neom and Riyadh’s new district are just a few examples of the megaprojects driving demand for advisory services.

A Unique Influence on Policymaking

The GCC consulting market is unique in that most clients are national governments rather than private companies. This dynamic gives international consulting firms an extraordinary level of influence over policymaking. Dawud Ansari, President of the Omani think tank Majan Council, explained that consultancies in the GCC "don’t just refine policies or draft reports—they design entire national visions and, in some cases, effectively take over the steering wheel of major policy initiatives." This level of access and influence is rare in other regions, where governments typically rely on local expertise or have stronger institutions to guide decision-making.

However, this reliance on external consultants has raised concerns. Many Gulf states lack a robust ecosystem of local think tanks and independent experts, leading to a dependence on foreign firms. While these firms bring global expertise, they often operate from a different cultural and institutional background, which can lead to recommendations that may not fully align with local realities. Additionally, the dominance of international consultancies could hinder the development of local talent in public policy, potentially eroding public trust in the long run.

Opportunities and Challenges in the GCC

The GCC’s consulting boom is not without its challenges. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and other regional initiatives have been criticized for their human rights implications. For instance, the construction of Neom has been linked to allegations of displacement and rights abuses against local tribespeople. Similarly, Qatar’s preparation for the 2022 World Cup drew international scrutiny after reports of hundreds of migrant worker deaths. Despite these controversies, the region’s consulting market continues to thrive, bolstered by the Gulf nations’ financial reserves from petrochemical industries, which have shielded them from the macroeconomic tensions affecting Europe and the U.S.

Moreover, the GCC’s unique selling points extend beyond its projects. The region’s low taxation policies, including little to no income tax, make it an attractive destination for consultants. The recent opening up of Gulf societies has also created a more welcoming environment for international professionals. As Albertelli noted, "If you don’t mind a bit of sun, it’s probably the best place to go for your career."

The Future of Consulting in the GCC

As the GCC consulting market continues to grow, there are signs of a shift in the type of work being done. Initially, much of the focus was on strategic planning for large-scale projects. However, as infrastructure development progresses, the demand is moving toward operational advice, helping governments and organizations implement their visions effectively. This evolution is likely to sustain growth in the consulting sector for years to come.

At the same time, the GCC is seeing the emergence of local boutique advisory firms, which are gaining traction as they offer specialized knowledge of the regional context. Saudi Arabia’s "Saudization" policy, which mandates quotas for national employment in high-value industries, is also encouraging more local talent to join international consulting firms. Despite these developments, the GCC remains a market where the "best talent" is in demand, regardless of nationality. "All the big countries in the GCC want the best talent, and they’re willing to spend no matter where it’s from," Albertelli said.

Conclusion

The GCC has emerged as a thriving market for consulting firms, driven by ambitious national projects and a growing demand for expertise. While the region presents unique opportunities, it also raises important questions about the influence of international consultancies on policymaking and the potential challenges of relying on external expertise. As the GCC continues to evolve, it will be crucial for governments and firms to balance global insights with local knowledge to ensure sustainable development. For now, however, the GCC remains a hotspot for consultants looking to make an impact—and a profit—in one of the world’s most dynamic regions.