Introduction
The Middle East and North Africa is one of the youngest regions in the world. More than half of our population is under the age of 30 – a demographic wave that can either fuel an unprecedented boom or strain our economies and societies. As a business leader and a proud father, I view this youth bulge as the region’s greatest untapped resource. The question is: are we unlocking its potential, or letting it slip away?
The Demographic Edge
In contrast to aging economies elsewhere, MENA’s youth offers a unique competitive advantage. A surge of talent and energy is entering the workforce each year. These young men and women are tech-savvy, globally connected, and hungry to make a mark. I’ve seen Iraqi university graduates launching startups from their smartphones and Emirati youth leading climate innovation projects. With the right guidance, this generation can drive innovation and growth at a scale we’ve never seen. But to harness this demographic edge, we must provide opportunities that match their ambitions.
Education for the Future
The foundation of any youth-driven renaissance is quality education. Too many of our education systems remain rooted in outdated methods, leaving graduates unprepared for today’s job market. By 2030, the jobs landscape will be dominated by technology, green energy, and creative industries. We need to radically realign curricula to emphasize critical thinking, coding and IT skills, entrepreneurship, and vocational training. Equally important is instilling a mindset of continuous learning. In my companies, I’ve launched internship programs and university partnerships to help bridge theory and practice. We owe it to our youth to equip them not just with degrees, but with skills to thrive in a new economy.
From Job Seekers to Job Creators
Government alone cannot absorb the millions of young job seekers. The private sector must step up to transform youth into job creators. This means fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem: easier access to startup funding, business incubators in every major city, and mentorship networks linking experienced leaders with young founders. I’ve mentored Iraqi and Jordanian entrepreneurs, and one thing is clear – when youth are empowered to innovate, they create jobs not just for themselves, but for others. We should celebrate and support these risk-takers. Every new venture – whether a tech app, a sustainable agribusiness, or a social enterprise – is a building block for a more diversified and resilient economy.
Youth in Leadership
Finally, we need young voices in the halls of leadership. It’s encouraging to see more youth councils, young ministers, and youth representatives in forums across the region. But true inclusion goes further: companies should bring young professionals to the strategy table, governments should consult youth on policies that affect them, and communities should encourage youth-led initiatives. During reconstruction efforts in Iraq, I found that projects involving young professionals not only brought fresh ideas, but also instilled hope and ownership in the community. When youth see a future for themselves at home – as leaders, innovators, and change-makers – they will channel their energy into building that future.
Conclusion
The so-called “youth bulge” is not a burden – it’s a gift. If we invest in our young people with education, empowerment, and trust, they will deliver a more prosperous, dynamic, and stable Middle East. Our youth are ready to build a brighter tomorrow. The responsibility lies with all of us – leaders in business, government, and society – to give them the tools and the chance to do so. The future of MENA will be written by the youth of today.