Economy and trade

Analysis

Syria's new rulers set ambitious economic goals: Are they achievable?

Syria’s financial woes run deep, prompting the new government to radically change its economic policy.

By Jack Dutton

In Bristol, reporting on regional business, climate change, AI, tech

Iranian officials trade blame as energy crisis, outages worsen: What to know

Unplanned power outages across Tehran in February have brought Iran’s energy crisis back into the spotlight, particularly as the country grapples with the strain of the maximum pressure sanctions campaign placed upon it by the United States.

Iran

UAE conveys frustrations to US' top diplomat Rubio over Gaza, Ukraine

Arab states have grown increasingly frustrated over the US administration's rhetoric about displacing 2.1 million Gazans from the enclave.

United Arab Emirates

Analysis

Qatar to invest $10 billion in India as trade ties expand beyond energy

The announcement came as Qatar's emir wrapped up a two-day state visit to India.

By Jennifer Gnana

In Dubai, reporting on Gulf energy policy and politics

At Dubai summit, Syrian FM expresses interest in Baghdad visit

On his second trip to the United Arab Emirates since assuming his role, new Syria Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani stressed the need for good neighborly relations, lifting of sanctions and guaranteed rights for minorities in the country.

Syria

Analysis

UAE's South Caucasus ambitions challenged by Georgia crisis: What to know

The UAE, encouraged by its flourishing ties with Azerbaijan, has made inroads in its relations with Baku's strategic partner, Georgia — but the political crisis there is now proving to be a challenge.

By Rahim Rahimov

In Baku, reporting on Middle East-Caucasus ties

Analysis

Saudi Arabia navigates oil cuts amid Trump pressure, economic strains

Saudi Arabia would need oil to be at $90 per barrel in 2025 to balance its budget, according to Capital Economics.

By Jennifer Gnana

In Dubai, reporting on Gulf energy policy and politics

Saudi Arabia would 'welcome the chance' to host Trump-Putin summit

Trump and Putin are expected to hold a phone call soon, and Gulf leaders are angling for a mediation role between the two.

Saudi Arabia

Analysis

Italy revamps ties with Saudi Arabia, eyeing investments and defense trade

On her first visit to Saudi Arabia, Meloni is seeking to rebrand Italy's political engagement in the Middle East and bring about a new era for Italian industry in the region.

By Jennifer Gnana

In Dubai, reporting on Gulf energy policy and politics

Saudi Arabia, Italy sign $10B in deals during Meloni visit: What we know

Italy is a strong trading partner of Saudi Arabia's, and the two countries are eying cooperation on renewable energy.

Saudi Arabia

Analysis

How will Trump's terrorist designation of Houthis impact Red Sea attacks?

Oil trade via the Houthi-controlled Bab el-Mandeb strait decreased by 50% after the Yemeni rebels launched maritime attacks, according to the US Energy Information Administration.

By Jennifer Gnana

In Dubai, reporting on Gulf energy policy and politics

WEF: Arab businesses ‘very keen’ to invest in Syria after Assad’s ouster

Syria's new foreign minister, Asaad al-Shibani, attended the World Economic Forum in Switzerland this week, along with over 50 heads of state and hundreds of business moguls.

Syria