The Future of Consulting in the GCC: Navigating Growth & Uncertainty
A Shifting Economic Landscape
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region is undergoing structural economic transformations, driven by global oil price volatility, policy shifts, and fiscal reform efforts. Kuwait, in particular, is navigating a complex landscape of financial risk, currency stability, and economic diversification as part of Vision 2035.
As businesses and government entities adapt to these changes, the demand for specialized consulting services is increasing. However, the GCC consulting market has long been dominated by the Big Four firms—offering international expertise but often lacking deep regional understanding. This creates a unique opportunity for national consulting firms to emerge as trusted partners, providing localized, tailored solutions to companies and policymakers navigating this evolving economic environment.
The question is: How can national consulting firms, particularly in Kuwait, carve out a niche and establish regional influence in an industry long dominated by global players?
Key Market Trends Impacting GCC Consulting
1. Economic Diversification & Kuwait Vision 2035
Kuwait remains heavily dependent on hydrocarbons, with oil and gas generating 90% of fiscal revenue. This reliance poses significant risks, particularly as global energy markets evolve.
The Kuwait Vision 2035 initiative aims to expand the private sector, attract foreign investment, and develop strategic infrastructure projects such as the Silk City mega-project and Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port. These projects are intended to position Kuwait as a leading trade and financial hub.
With parliament suspended and policy decisions now centralized, reforms are expected to accelerate, presenting opportunities for local consultants to guide businesses through these transitions. However, execution challenges and bureaucratic hurdles remain key concerns.
Opportunity: National consulting firms can play a key role in helping businesses and investors navigate Kuwait’s economic transition, ensuring compliance with new regulations, and identifying investment opportunities in emerging sectors.
2. Rising Sovereign & Banking Risks
Kuwait’s sovereign risk rating remains at BBB, indicating moderate creditworthiness. However, persistent fiscal deficits and the long-pending public debt law could impact future financing strategies.
The banking sector risk remains BB-rated, reflecting concerns over non-performing loans, high real estate exposure, and credit management challenges. The potential for banking sector instability could influence corporate financing decisions.
Opportunity: Local consulting firms can offer risk advisory services to businesses navigating banking regulations, investment strategies, and financial risk mitigation. Understanding Kuwait’s financial risk landscape will be essential for companies seeking to expand in the region.
3. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) & Regulatory Challenges
Kuwait aims to attract foreign investment, yet bureaucratic inefficiencies and regulatory barriers continue to slow progress.
The government is expected to introduce new investment-friendly policies, creating a need for corporate structuring, legal advisory, and compliance consulting.
With global consulting firms focusing on large-scale projects, national firms like Deera Consulting can specialize in guiding SMEs and mid-sized corporations through these regulatory frameworks.
Opportunity: National consulting firms can provide expert guidance to investors and businesses looking to expand in Kuwait and the wider GCC region. Helping companies navigate FDI regulations, market entry strategies, and corporate restructuring will be essential.
4. The Role of National Consulting Firms
Historically, the GCC has relied on multinational consulting firms for business strategy, financial advisory, and public sector reforms. However, these firms often lack localized expertise and tend to offer standardized solutions.
As the first national consulting firm in Kuwait outside of the Big Four, Deera Consulting Agency is uniquely positioned to offer:
How Deera Consulting is Pioneering a National Approach
Unlike international firms that apply generic global models, Deera Consulting Agency’s deep understanding of Kuwait’s business environment allows it to offer tailored, strategic solutions that address both regional and sector-specific challenges.
A National Vision for Regional Influence
Kuwaiti Expertise, Global Standards – Deera bridges the gap between global best practices and local market realities.
Beyond the Big Four – As Kuwait’s first national consulting firm outside of the Big Four, Deera is redefining the consulting industry.
Your Strategic Partner in the GCC – Expanding regional influence by offering market-driven, research-based consulting.
Positioning for the Future
Thought Leadership & Insights – Publishing in-depth analyses on Kuwait’s economic and business trends.
Client-Centric Solutions – Providing advisory services tailored to businesses operating in or expanding into the GCC.
Collaboration & Network Building – Partnering with government entities, investors, and businesses to drive regional growth.
Conclusion: The Future is Local
The future of consulting in the GCC will be defined by adaptability, industry expertise, and localized insights. As Kuwait moves toward economic diversification and regulatory transformation, consulting firms must be prepared to offer more than just generic advice—they must provide actionable, region-specific strategies.
With economic shifts, regulatory changes, and evolving financial risks, the consulting landscape is ripe for national firms to take the lead. Deera Consulting Agency is not just an alternative to the Big Four—it is redefining what it means to be a trusted regional consulting partner.
By combining deep market knowledge, strategic foresight, and a commitment to regional growth, Deera is setting the stage for a new era of Kuwaiti-led consulting excellence.
