Middle East

Gulf States and Regional Powers Reposition Themselves as the Global Order Shifts

Countries across the Middle East are actively diversifying their diplomatic and economic partnerships beyond traditional Western alliances. The region has emerged as a consequential arena where competing global powers seek influence, investment, and strategic footholds.

Türkiye Travel Tips - Antalya Beaches and Coastal Routes

Beaches in Antalya offer golden sands, clear water and diverse amenities. This guide outlines safety measures, transport options, seasonal advice and scenic coastal routes to plan efficient visits. Seasonal Planning and Arrival Logistics Timing trips

Bahrain Recalibrates Its Position as Gulf Regional Dynamics Shift

Bahrain has moved to consolidate its diplomatic and security relationships across the Gulf as regional alliances undergo a period of significant realignment. The small island kingdom is leveraging its strategic location and long-standing partnerships to maintain relevance amid competing power centers.

Türkiye Travel Guide - Istanbul Landmarks and Bosphorus

Over two millennia, Istanbul's iconic Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and the Bosphorus strait define Türkiye's cultural and maritime heritage, offering historical insight, scenic ferry rides and architectural masterpieces for informed trav

Politics

How the Iran war could create a ‘fertiliser shock’ – an often ignored global risk to food prices and farming

Nima Shokri , United Nations University and Salome M. S. Shokri-Kuehni , United Nations University ; Technical University of Hamburg Tehran is moving to restrict – or effectively close – the strait of Hormuz to shipping, as part of the latest escalat

Gulf States Reposition as Pivotal Brokers in a Shifting Middle East Order

Gulf Cooperation Council members, led by Saudi Arabia and the UAE, have expanded their diplomatic reach well beyond their immediate neighborhood, mediating conflicts and forging partnerships across multiple continents. This assertive foreign policy posture marks a measurable departure from the more reactive regional stance these states maintained in earlier decades.

Israel and Lebanon have a long history of failed ceasefires – will this time be any different?

In past agreements, there appeared to be a tacit understanding between Hezbollah and Israel that conflict would eventually resume.

Bahrain Accelerates Smart City Push as Digital Infrastructure Reshapes Urban Living

Bahrain has positioned itself as a regional leader in smart city development, deploying digital infrastructure across transportation, public services, and urban planning. The Gulf kingdom's initiatives reflect a broader national strategy to diversify the economy and modernize municipal governance.

Economy

Gulf States and Emerging Arab Markets Draw Rising Wave of Global Capital

Foreign direct investment flows into the Middle East have expanded considerably in recent years, driven by economic diversification agendas, regulatory reforms, and growing interest from institutional investors across Asia, Europe, and North America. Countries including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt have emerged as focal points for cross-border capital allocation.

Gulf Economies Outpace Global Growth as Diversification Strategies Take Hold

Several Middle Eastern economies, particularly Gulf Cooperation Council members, have recorded growth rates surpassing broader global averages in recent forecasting cycles. International financial institutions attribute the performance to sustained energy revenues, expanding non-oil sectors, and large-scale infrastructure investment.

Gulf Sovereign Wealth Funds Reshape Global Investment Landscape

State-owned investment vehicles from the Gulf region have expanded their reach across continents, acquiring stakes in technology, infrastructure, and financial institutions. Their growing portfolios reflect a deliberate strategy to diversify national economies and extend geopolitical influence beyond traditional energy markets.

New Trade Routes Reshape Economic Landscape Across the Middle East

Expanding overland and maritime trade corridors are generating measurable economic activity across the Middle East, connecting Gulf states, the Levant, and North Africa in ways that were logistically limited a decade ago. Infrastructure investments and bilateral trade agreements have accelerated the movement of goods, positioning the region as an increasingly significant link between Asian, European, and African markets.

Business

Gulf Economies Accelerate AI Adoption as Technology Reshapes Regional Commerce

Governments and private enterprises across the Gulf Cooperation Council are integrating artificial intelligence into core business operations, positioning the region as an emerging hub for technology-driven economic activity. National strategies in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are channeling substantial investment into AI infrastructure, talent development, and regulatory frameworks.

Dynastic Enterprises Shape the Middle East's Commercial Landscape

Family-owned businesses have long formed the backbone of economic activity across the Middle East, spanning sectors from retail and real estate to banking and manufacturing. As regional economies diversify away from oil dependency, these multigenerational enterprises are increasingly central to growth strategies.

Gulf and Levant Firms Chart Course for International Expansion

Companies based across the Middle East are increasingly moving beyond regional borders, establishing operations and partnerships in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. The shift reflects broader economic diversification strategies pursued by both private enterprises and state-linked entities.

Gulf Investors Channel Capital Into Renewable Energy as Regional Demand Surges

Business leaders across the Middle East are directing substantial investment toward solar, wind, and hydrogen projects as governments accelerate clean energy targets. The shift reflects both economic opportunity and pressure to diversify revenue streams beyond hydrocarbons.

Travel

Saudi Arabia Travel Guide - Top Riyadh Landmarks to Visit

Just explore Riyadh's highlights with this concise guide covering Masmak Fortress, Kingdom Centre, National Museum, Diriyah, and Al Faisaliyah Tower, plus practical tips on timings, dress code, and transport to plan an efficient, respectful visit. Es

Egypt’s Natural Wonders Off the Beaten Path

Nature reveals an Egypt of hidden oases, wind-sculpted deserts and submerged gardens that reward travelers willing to stray from crowded routes. Siwa Oasis sits near the Libyan border, an emerald cluster of palms, salt lakes and ancient ruins. Visit

Iran Travel Guide - Explore Isfahan Historic Sites

Travel to Isfahan reveals a tapestry of Safavid-era architecture, including Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Imam Mosque, and Chehel Sotoun; this guide provides practical history, visiting tips, and best times to explore each historic site with authoritative lo

Oman Tourism - Explore Wadi Shab Hiking Routes

Over lush canyon trails, Wadi Shab offers marked routes, freshwater pools, and a shaded cave with a waterfall; hikers should carry water, wear sturdy shoes, and hire local guides for safe, informed exploration. Essential Pre-Trip Planning Pack sturdy

Culinary

Kuwait Food Culture - How Machboos Shapes Meals

Just Machboos structures Kuwaiti meals with spiced rice and slow-cooked meats, shaping family gatherings, seasonal feasts and culinary identity through aromatic spices and communal serving. The Historical Roots of Machboos in Kuwait Machboos anchored

Iran’s Streets Serve Flavor in Every Bite

With steam drifting from charcoal grills and the scent of saffron and sumac hanging in the air, Iranian streets invite passersby to taste a living culinary tradition. Vendors trim skewers of koobideh and joojeh over glowing coals, tuck grilled livers

Dubai Restaurants Guide - Best Dining Spots in Dubai

There's a curated selection of Dubai's top restaurants, from beachfront seafood to Michelin-star fine dining, offering menus, ambience, and price ranges to suit every taste; this guide highlights must-visit venues, reservation tips, and culinary tren

Lebanon Street Food - Best Manakish in Sidon

You will discover Sidon's best manakish in family bakeries, where wood-fired ovens yield crisp za'atar, cheese, and lahm bi ajeen pies; this guide names top shops, signature flavors, and ordering tips. The Culinary Heritage of Manakish in Sidon Sidon

Health

Gulf States Step Up Efforts to Address Surging Diabetes Rates

Health authorities across the Gulf Cooperation Council have intensified public awareness campaigns targeting one of the region's most prevalent chronic conditions. Diabetes affects a disproportionately high share of the Gulf population compared to global averages, prompting coordinated institutional responses.

Gulf States Emerge as Regional Hubs for International Medical Travel

Countries across the Gulf Cooperation Council have positioned themselves as leading destinations for medical tourism, drawing patients from across the Middle East, Africa, and beyond. Advanced infrastructure, internationally accredited facilities, and competitive pricing are among the factors driving sustained growth in the sector.

Bahrain Advances Digital Transformation Across Public and Private Healthcare Infrastructure

Bahrain has been accelerating the integration of digital systems across its healthcare sector, encompassing electronic health records, telemedicine platforms, and upgraded hospital management tools. The initiative aligns with the kingdom's broader national development strategy aimed at modernising public services.

GCC Nations Emerge as Regional Hubs for Cross-Border Medical Care

Gulf Cooperation Council countries have recorded substantial growth in medical tourism, driven by expanded healthcare infrastructure and strategic government investment. The trend positions the region as an increasingly prominent destination for patients seeking specialized treatment from across the Arab world and beyond.

Culture

Lebanon Culture Guide - Baalbeck International Festival

With roots in Roman antiquity and modern revival, the Baalbeck International Festival showcases opera, dance, and global music amid ancient temples, offering historical context, program highlights, and visitor guidance for cultural travelers. The Arc

Oman Heritage - UNESCO Sites Explained

With ancient forts, archaeological ruins, and frankincense trails, Oman presents UNESCO World Heritage Sites that reflect maritime trade, desert culture, and imperial defense; this guide explains their history, significance, and visiting highlights f

Palestine Heritage - UNESCO Sites Explained

UNESCO lists key Palestinian cultural and natural sites, explaining their history, significance, and preservation challenges to guide informed heritage stewardship. The Old City of Jerusalem and its Walls Jerusalem's Old City walls encircle centuries

Tradition Alive in Egypt’s Modern Life

There's a living thread of tradition woven into Egypt's fast-paced urban life, where ancient rituals, family customs and artisanal skills coexist with skyscrapers, startups and modern transport. In Cairo, Alexandria and smaller towns, the past inform

Science

Gulf States Emerge as Competing Hubs in the Global Artificial Intelligence Landscape

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar have accelerated investments in artificial intelligence infrastructure, research institutions, and national strategy frameworks. The region is positioning itself as a significant node in the global AI ecosystem, drawing international technology partnerships and sovereign capital.

Gulf States and Regional Powers Channel Growing Resources Into Digital Defense Infrastructure

Cybersecurity spending across Middle Eastern nations has risen substantially in recent years, driven by an expanding threat landscape targeting critical infrastructure, government systems, and financial networks. Research institutions and national agencies have documented a measurable increase in both state-sponsored and non-state cyberattacks directed at the region.

Gulf States Emerge as Testing Ground for Next-Generation Renewable Technologies

Across the Arabian Peninsula, governments and research institutions are accelerating the deployment and development of advanced renewable energy systems. Solar, hydrogen, and smart grid technologies have positioned the region as a significant hub for clean energy research.

Gulf States and Neighbors Accelerate Clean Energy Research Amid Shifting Global Technology Landscape

Countries across the Middle East and North Africa are channeling substantial resources into renewable energy research and development, positioning the region as an emerging center of clean technology innovation. From solar photovoltaic research in the Arabian Peninsula to hydrogen pilot programs in North Africa, a broad spectrum of scientific and engineering activity is reshaping the region's energy research profile.