Interview Saudi labor localization will take ‘generation or two': Armada CEO Around 70% of Saudi Arabia's population is 35 years old or younger, according to the kingdom’s General Authority for Statistics, providing ample opportunity for an educated and technology-savvy national workforce in the coming decades. Olivier Badard CEO of Armada Holding
Analysis Why the Hormuz oil shock never became an energy catastrophe The US-Israel-Iran war produced a historic oil supply shock but not a severe global economic crisis, due to ample prewar supplies, China's energy pivot and strategic reserve releases. By Samuel Wendel In Washington, DC, reporting on regional business and tech
Oil falls below $74 as Hormuz traffic recovers after Iran war Brent crude, the international benchmark for oil prices, was trading at $73.81 a barrel at 10:40 a.m. EDT, down 4.2% from Tuesday's close. Iran
Explainer Lebanon advances controversial $500K golden visa law: What to know While its supporters say the scheme would help Lebanon's economy recover, critics say it could offer a channel for corruption. Lebanon
Interview US-Egypt fund makes case for economic statecraft in hard power era Cornelius Queen Senior Vice President of the Egyptian-American Enterprise Fund
Analysis US-Iran deal delivers $300 billion controversy, reconstruction questions By Samuel Wendel In Washington, DC, reporting on regional business and tech
Lebanese cook over wood as high gas prices persist Desperation is one of the few commodities Lebanon does not lack as the financial burden of securing necessities such as cooking gas grows heavier. Lebanon
Emirati port operator, Uzbek oil company to open trade hub, cooperate on freight Other Middle Eastern states are also seeking better economic relations with Central Asia. Legacy: Gulf
Lapid’s greatest election challenge will be skyrocketing cost of living Prime Minister Yair Lapid has only four months to show Israelis he can do something about the continuously-increasing cost of living and high housing prices. Israel
Saudi fast food giant ready to challenge KFC in Egyptian market The introduction of Saudi fast food chain Albaik to Egypt is part of the $7.7 billion investment package announced during the recent visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to Cairo. Saudi Arabia
Egypt’s growing fintech ecosystem transforms country’s finances A population of over 100 million, young, largely unbanked, with a high penetration of internet and mobile subscriptions paves the way for innovation in Egypt's fintech sector. Egypt
Abu Dhabi port operator acquires stake in Egyptian shipping firms Gulf countries are interested in buying Egyptian assets as the country’s economy falters. Egypt
Egyptian trade delegation visits Israel for first time in decade Economic ties between Egypt and Israel seem to be on the right path amid growing cooperation in various fields. Egypt
World Bank official: Lebanon, Yemen, Syria most food-insecure in region Many states across the Middle East and North Africa meet the criteria for food insecurity, experts said at a US Institute of Peace event. Syria
Saudis side with Egypt on Nile dam Saudi Arabia has explicitly and officially voiced its support for Egypt in the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam crisis. Egypt
Outrageous prices keep Lebanese from swimming Many Lebanese have been complaining about high entrance fees to swimming pools and water resorts amid low salaries due to the local currency depreciation. Lebanon
UAE to increase exports to countries in West Africa The Emirates is one of the biggest investors in Africa. Turkey, Qatar and Israel have significant interests on the African continent as well. Legacy: Gulf
Imports up pressure on Morocco’s foreign reserves Energy and food imports alongside a growing trade deficit put pressure on Morocco’s foreign currency reserves. North Africa