I find it hard to believe it’s already December. My days are a constant mix of time moving too fast and too slow, and if it weren’t for deadlines, I would probably lose track of time a lot.
But it is December once again. The time when we all wind down and relax from a busy year of trying to survive and thrive, and statistically, go on holiday. It is the time when we all can look back on the 11 months that have just passed, hopefully with fondness, and congratulate ourselves on a job well done.
For myself, it’s been a difficult year getting to grips with my new role, and all the new responsibilities that come with it, but I think—I hope—that I’ve adjusted to it, and the next year should be easier (although it probably won’t be). I have attended an inordinate number of meetings and done far too much administrative work, and I don’t see any of that letting up any time soon.
At the same time, I have become much more familiar with the insurance industry in MENA, which has been a revelation after working in Asia for 10 years.
Like many of you, we have ambitions for the next year, to be bigger and better, to deliver more engaging and relevant content, in various formats. At the same time, we recognise the value of learning from the past and embracing new perspectives, which is why in this issue, we have asked several of the sector’s leading voices to share their forecasts for 2026.
As the Middle East insurance sector navigates a period of business and technological transformation, the perspectives of industry leaders are increasingly valuable.
From shifting regulatory landscapes to the rapid adoption of digital technologies and evolving customer expectations, the region’s insurance players are preparing for a future defined by innovation, resilience, and strategic reinvention.
They offer a great mix of views. Several focus on the GCC and the wider Middle East region while others zoom in on specific markets. Their insights highlight where the opportunities lie, and what challenges could reshape the market.
As we approach the end of the year, it’s important to acknowledge not only the challenges we have faced but also the growth and resilience that has emerged from them. This is a season for reflection, gratitude, and looking to the future with optimism. Take the time to celebrate your achievements, both big and small, and to appreciate the connections and collaborations that have helped us navigate these unpredictable times. M
Ahmad Zaki
Editorial director
Middle East Insurance Review