GCC Relations

China embraces debt listings to tap into Gulf’s pool of wealth

As UAE stock markets hit $1 trillion in market capitalization for the first time last week, an increasing number of Chinese entities are choosing to list some of their debt on Gulf capital markets.

By Sebastian Castelier

In Dubai, reporting on regional business

Analysis

Saudi Arabia to pursue two-track approach for Trump presidency

Riyadh is likely to compartmentalize business dealings with incoming President Donald Trump separately from its foreign policy engagements, where there is likely to be disagreement.

By Jennifer Gnana

In Dubai, reporting on Gulf energy policy and politics

After UAE visit, Qatari PM holds talks in Iran as Hamas officials depart Doha

A Gulf political official told Al-Monitor on Wednesday that the Qatari prime minister's visit to the UAE is designed to communicate Doha's new policy toward Hamas, where it seeks to be more in alignment with them regarding the group.

Qatar

Interview

EU escorted over 200 ships in Red Sea amid Gulf maritime threats, envoy says

The Gulf states are supporting the EU's Operation Aspides to counter the Houthi threat in the Red Sea region, as both seek greater cooperation on maritime security, said Luigi di Maio.

Luigi di Maio

EU Special Representative for the Gulf

Even with MBS absent, Saudi Arabia and UAE poised to make deals at G20

Gulf states will look for agreements and trade deals with partners from South America and elsewhere ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration in January.

United States

From golf to the Gulf: Who is Trump’s new Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff?

Trump's long-time friend will face a tough job in trying to quell a regional war that has been raging since Oct. 7, 2023, between Israel, Lebanon and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

United States

Saudi PIF trims Nintendo stake from 7.5% to 6.3% in second cut of month

A filing with Japan’s Finance Ministry said the move follows the sale of more than 17 million Nintendo shares, which concluded in October.

Saudi Arabia

Analysis

Beyond congratulations, Trump faces changed, eastward-looking Gulf

Gulf states are familiar with Donald Trump and his transactional nature but have also managed to forge their own regional alliances over the last four years.

By Jennifer Gnana

In Dubai, reporting on Gulf energy policy and politics

Saudi-Israel normalization 'off table' until Palestinian statehood, FM says

Saudi Arabia's foreign minister has said that normalization with Israel will wait for progress on Palestinian rights.

Saudi Arabia

What's significance of UAE's Sheikh Tahnoon third visit to Qatar in a year?

Qatar and the UAE are strengthening ties with high-profile meetings and joint investments like the $20 billion Development Road Project. However, differing views on Gaza’s future could challenge their cooperation.

United Arab Emirates

Saudi Arabia pushes for Africa debt relief as private investments set to reach $25B

Saudi Arabia is pushing for debt relief for African nations burdened with more than $1 trillion in liabilities.

Saudi Arabia

Analysis

Saudi naval ambitions get a boost after joint Greece, France exercise

The kingdom is modernizing its navy under Vision 2030, replacing outdated vessels while seeking to diversify its military partnerships beyond traditional US reliance — but operational gaps remain.

By Francesco Schiavi

In Bologna, reporting on security, defense, economy, governance