Middle East

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.

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.

Tapping the millennial market pushes digital development.

Islamic financial institutions recorded a strong 2021 while continuing digital investments.

Tony Cripps, CEO of SABB, discusses the benefits of the financial sector’s ongoing transformation.

Fragmented payment systems and a lack of standardization have hindered the cash management efforts of companies in the Middle East, but this looks set to change.

Before obtaining a new license, Standard Chartered tried several times to buy out a local lender.

Kuwait responded swiftly to the pandemic, but political feuds are slowing the reform agenda and increasing macroeconomic vulnerabilities.

The industry is a prime part of Qatar’s economic-diversification strategy.