IMF slashes Middle East growth outlook due to war disruptions

IMF slashes Middle East growth outlook due to war disruptions The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has sharply cut growth forecasts for the Middle East and Central Asia in 2026 amid the ongoing conflict in the region. Saudi Arabia's GDP is expected to contract by 3.3 percent this year, the IMF said in its latest World Economic Outlook report, adding that the kingdom was among the least affected in the region.