Analysis

Oman’s sleepy tech sector showing signs of promise

Global investors are putting millions into an Omani carbon removal startup, signaling a breakthrough for a market that has lagged behind Gulf neighbors targeting tech growth.

By Samuel Wendel

In Washington, DC, reporting on regional business and tech

GCC’s renewable energy push pays off with Qatar, UAE taking lead

Several Gulf states rank relatively high on the World Economic Forum (WEF) Energy Transition Index, reflecting their efforts to transition toward renewable energy and reduce their dependence on fossil fuels.

Saudi Arabia

Analysis

What’s behind Islamic State’s first attack in Oman?

ISIS has not affected Oman as much as it has other Gulf countries, in part due to the sultanate’s strong security and lack of radicalism, according to one expert.

By Adam Lucente

In New York City, reporting on regional news, militancy, climate change

Are GCC states prepared for net zero in aviation?

Kate Dourian

In Dubai, reporting on energy

Interview

Oman to phase out polluting industries 'too difficult to decarbonize'

Omani Minister of Energy and Minerals Salim Al Aufi told Al-Monitor that if his government finds an industry too difficult or costly to decarbonize, there will be discussions taking place about phasing the sector out all together.

Salim Al Aufi

Oman Minister of Energy and Minerals

As it seeks to rival China and Pakistan, India sets its sights on Oman trade deal

The agreement could serve as a "strategic lever" for New Delhi to expand its influence in the Middle East.

Oman

Sovereign fund-led economy: Oman takes a page from Saudi Arabia

Sebastian Castelier

In Dubai, reporting on regional business

What does EU visa relaxation for Saudi, Bahraini, Omani citizens mean?

Under the new rules, Bahraini, Omani and Saudi Arabian nationals will be eligible for multiple-entry visas, allowing them to visit the Schengen area (the EU’s 27 member states as well as Bulgaria and Romania) and move freely between them.

Saudi Arabia

Dubai's record rainfall spotlights Gulf’s troubled relation with water

The Gulf’s longterm love–hate relationship with water lies behind a year and a half's worth of rain that fell on Dubai in 24 hours. It includes climate change-induced shifting rainfall patterns, groundwater extractions and unsustainable consumption.

United Arab Emirates

Oman LNG deal spree continues with France's TotalEnergies

The French energy major is also working on the Marsa project in Oman, which it claims is the first LNG bunkering hub in the Middle East.

Oman

Oman launches $5 billion 'Future Fund' in sign of economic progress

Oman’s economy is improving by some metrics as the Gulf state seeks to diversify.

Oman

What does Donald Trump's latest $200 million deal with Saudi Arabia entail?

The former president, who is now the presumptive nominee for the Republican Party, has long had significant business ties to Saudi Arabia via his properties and the LIV Golf league.

Gulf