A staggering 64% of adults in the Arab region remain unbanked, according to a new report by the UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (UNESCWA). This figure is the highest globally, far surpassing the 24% global average, raising alarm over the region’s ability to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

The report, published on Thursday, highlights that while there are signs of progress—such as a 260% increase in Egyptian women opening bank accounts—significant gender and social inclusion gaps persist.

“The Arab region cannot afford to treat financial services as a luxury,” said Mario Jales, lead author of the report. “Without inclusive finance, we cannot hope to lift people out of poverty, support small businesses, or achieve equitable growth.”
Barriers to Inclusion
The findings show deep disparities:

Only 29% of women and 21% of persons with disabilities have access to financial services.

Rural communities, youth, and older adults also face considerable barriers.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) struggle to access loans, limiting entrepreneurial growth and income-generation.
Income-Based Inequality
Financial exclusion is further exacerbated by income disparities:

81% of people in low-income Arab countries are unbanked.

That compares to 67% in middle-income and just 23% in high-income countries in the region.
The Digital Divide Within a Divide
Even as digital technologies are touted as solutions, the report notes a growing “digital divide within the divide,” where access to mobile banking and digital finance is still limited in underserved communities.

UNESCWA’s findings make a strong case for urgent reforms and targeted investment in inclusive financial systems across the Arab world to empower individuals, reduce poverty, and accelerate sustainable development.

Read the full report via UN News: UNESCWA report on financial inclusion