GCC Insurers Post Solid 9 M 2025 Results But Small Players Face Pressure

The insurance industry across the Gulf region is navigating a mix of positive momentum and tightening pressures. A recent performance review of listed insurers reveals growth in revenue and underwriting profit, yet structural challenges persist — especially for smaller firms. Me Insurance Review

Performance snapshot
According to research firm Insurance Monitor and consultancy Lux Actuaries & Consultants, 75 publicly-listed GCC insurers reported combined net profits of US$1.7 billion during the nine months ended September 2025. This is notable given the broader macro-environment. Total revenue rose 8.2% to roughly US$29.9 billion in the same period. Me Insurance Review Focus on the UAE shows especially strong gains: listed insurers there saw net profit jump 64.9% to US$597 million, aided by dropping combined ratios to 92.9% and reduced claims burdens.

Another industry update by Arab News notes that non-life insurance premiums are rising in 2025 (especially in the UAE) and that profitability is improving overall albeit with caveats. Arab News

Outlook
For 2025-26, the sector’s prospects remain positive — steady premium growth, improving underwriting profitability in non-life, and rising demand for life/health insurance as economies diversify. But the winners will be insurers that combine strong underwriting, digital execution and asset-risk management. Smaller firms that fail to transform may find themselves squeezed by competition, higher costs and modest returns.