Gulf Cooperation Council countries have made significant strides in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, outperforming global averages across key sectors including health, education, and basic services, according to new data from Statistical Centre for the Cooperation Council for the Arab Countries of the Gulf.
The report highlights that extreme poverty has been nearly eliminated across the region, with living standards exceeding international benchmarks. Robust social protection systems have played a central role in ensuring inclusive growth.
Healthcare indicators show particularly strong performance. Maternal mortality stands at 19.9 per 100,000 live births, well below the global target of 70. Under-five mortality is 10.8 per 1,000, compared to 25 globally. Universal health coverage and essential vaccine access have both reached 100 percent, alongside higher physician density, underscoring the strength of regional healthcare systems.
Education outcomes are equally notable. Literacy rates have reached 99.2 percent, while pre-primary enrollment stands at 99.8 percent. Schools across the GCC provide comprehensive basic services, supported by fully qualified teaching staff, reflecting sustained investment in human capital.
Infrastructure development has ensured universal access to safe drinking water and electricity, both at 100 percent, significantly above global averages. Sanitation and water treatment services are also nearing full coverage in several countries.
The region also reports strong safety indicators, with a homicide rate of 0.6 per 100,000 people and lower levels of human trafficking compared to global figures.
Despite these gains, challenges remain. High energy consumption, rising hazardous waste, child nutrition concerns, and a relatively low labour share of GDP point to areas requiring targeted policy action and long-term reform.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
