GCC Relations

Analysis

A year on, UAE walks BRICS tightrope amid escalating US-Brazil rhetoric

Trump is likely to go head-to-head with BRICS this year. He has declared the group to be "dead" and threatened to impose 100% tariffs on all imports from the member states if they planned to move against the dollar.

By Jennifer Gnana

In Dubai, reporting on Gulf energy policy and politics

Kuwait revokes citizenship of 464 as restrictions tighten under new emir

Over 35,000 Kuwaitis have lost their citizenship since the government enforced amendments to its citizenship law in September of last year.

Kuwait

Analysis

Amid US rift and Saudi rivalry, UAE offers Zelenskyy economic lifeline

Gulf countries find themselves in a difficult position as they navigate placating Trump, maintaining good relations with Russia, and engaging with Ukraine while also providing mediation and humanitarian aid.

By Jennifer Gnana

In Dubai, reporting on Gulf energy policy and politics

JPMorgan to reclassify Qatar, Kuwait as developed markets: What it means

JPMorgan’s Global Index Research team said that Qatar and Kuwait will be removed from the Emerging Markets Bond Index starting from March 31.

Qatar

Why is Iran urging Qatar to release $6B in frozen oil payments?

The payments, by South Korea for Iranian oil, were initially frozen in Seoul bank accounts in 2019, after the Trump administration increased sanctions on Iran, before transfer to Qatar.

Qatar

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

UAE, Ukraine finalize trade deal during Zelenskyy's visit

The agreement is expected to contribute $369 million to the UAE’s GDP and $874 million to Ukraine’s GDP by 2031.

United Arab Emirates

Analysis

Fearing Iran's gains, Jordan & Egypt instability, Gulf states try to counter Trump's Gaza plan

As they mull an alternate plan, Gulf states' response to Trump includes diplomatic unity, strategic messaging and potential geopolitical shifts away from Washington.

By Giorgio Cafiero

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

Saudi Arabia’s non-oil private sector grows at fastest rate in over a decade

Saudi Arabia's General Authority for Statistics said last week that the kingdom's non-oil GDP growth rate was up 4.3% from 2023, while oil activities declined by 4.5%.

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

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