Middle East

Kuwait is enjoying high hydrocarbon prices, but the lack of reforms weighs heavily on the oil-rentier’s economic outlook.

A historically strong banking system has been conservative in its approach to tech innovation, but that’s changing.

Saudi Arabia's central bank raised key policy rates seven times in 2022 and economic growth is projected to slow this year.

Saudi Arabia went in a decade from a desert kingdom to one of the world’s most connected nations.

As Iran edges closer to gaining the ability to build nuclear weapons, Saudi Arabia is beginning to make similar moves.

Home-grown grain may be the solution to the global wheat shortage caused by the Russia-Ukraine war.

The Gulf country seeks to grow its economy beyond hydrocarbons.

Global Finance presents the best private banks in the Middle East.

Qatar is among the countries that will reap the greatest benefits from the global energy crisis. 

Sizable energy-crisis returns lead Qatar to diversify its investments globally.

The appointments may bring the political instability and violent clashes that erupted after the 2021 elections to an end.

The US-brokered accord could be hugely consequential, and not solely for economic benefits: Israel and Lebanon have no official diplomatic relations and remain technically at war since 1948.

Regional expansion boosts profits, and positions banks for further growth. 

Although the precise remit has not been defined, the envoy will focus on the major funds in the Persian Gulf.

From January 1, 2023, tolls will increase by 15% for vessels including oil tankers, and 10% for dry bulk and cruise ships.

Hassan Abdalla's main challenge will be to contain soaring inflation and balance foreign exchange rates.

One of the biggest challenges for Tarek Amer’s successor will be balancing austerity and boosting citizens' purchasing power.

Ali H. Khalil, CEO of Kuwait Financial Centre “Markaz”, speaks to Global Finance about the effects of the Ukraine conflict and advancements in fintech.

As the MENA region prepares to host the world’s major climate-change policy event, COP27, Global Finance explored the region’s sustainability commitment and sustainable finance initiatives in a discussion with experts from MENA’s leading banks.

Faisal AlHaroun is managing director of Tap Payments Kuwait and senior vice president of Tap Payments Global. He speaks to Global Finance about the evolution of fintech and its customers in the MENA region.