The World Economic Forum's Chief Economists' Outlook report warns that the job market in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) will face significant challenges by 2026 due to delays in hiring linked to the ongoing regional war. A staggering 74% of chief economists predict weak or very weak employment growth in the coming year, citing disruptions in trade, tourism, and investment. The International Labour Organization has highlighted that instability threatens millions of jobs, especially in conflict-affected areas where supply chains and foreign investment are severely impacted. Despite this, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) economies like Saudi Arabia and the UAE show some resilience, with ongoing demand for talent in various sectors. However, the report notes that job cuts in these wealthier nations will still affect remittances, which are vital for many economies reliant on migrant workers. The overall outlook for MENA has notably deteriorated, with 88% of economists expecting weak growth, a significant shift from previous optimism earlier in the year.