Interview

Growing Chinese competition in Mideast car market 'key challenge,' Ford says

Chinese automotive companies are increasing their market share and are projected to capture 34% of the Middle East and Africa market by 2030, according to one analysis.

Ravi Ravichandran

President of Ford Middle East and North Africa

Mideast private equity down 38%, but higher-value deals dominate

Saudi Arabia was the region’s most active market with 13 transactions, followed by the UAE with 12.

Saudi Arabia

US calls Saudi-French UN conference on Palestine ‘publicity stunt’ as Riyadh rallies behind PA

The United Nations conference on Palestinian statehood featured strong support for the Palestinian Authority’s efforts to return to Gaza even as the Trump administration boycotted the event, calling it "ill-timed."

Palestine

Analysis

Fitch maintains Saudi Arabia's A+ credit rating, but how secure is it?

The kingdom's oil dependence, World Bank governance indicators and vulnerability to geopolitical shocks have improved but remain weaknesses, the ratings agency noted.

By Jack Dutton

In Bristol, reporting on regional business, climate change, AI, tech

Saudi mining licenses soar as kingdom hunts critical metals: What to know

The Saudi government has cleared hurdles for the mining industry in its pursuit of critical materials.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia pledges $6B investment, to sign 47 deals with Syria: What to know

The event is a milestone for Syria-Saudi relations and the deals coming out of it are expected to help create 50,000 jobs across the country.

Syria

Newsletter: City Pulse Riyadh

Saudi-backed show explores Palestinian embroidery in Scotland

New Saudi restaurant in London, MDLBeast events, and the story behind Al-Taa’sheer dance.

By Rebecca Anne Proctor

In Dubai, reporting on culture

Saudi Arabia to invest $6B in Syria in boost to Sharaa: What to know

The kingdom has been at the forefront of diplomatic and economic efforts to support Syria's recovery.

Syria

Newsletter: Gulf

Gulf defense spending surges

The UAE and Saudi Arabia are staging a notable presence at IDEF 2025, Turkey’s major defense industry exhibition taking place in Istanbul. Both nations are leveraging the expo to reinforce regional partnerships and solidify new joint ventures.

By Francesco Schiavi

In Bologna, reporting on security, defense, economy, governance

Saudi Arabia offers travel permits to Syrian businessmen, investors: What to know

Syrian entrepreneurs can now directly apply for travel licenses at the Saudi Embassy in Damascus, while Saudi investors seeking to visit Syria can register via the Interior Ministry’s e-platform.

Syria

Saudi crude oil exports hit 3-month high as production soars: What to know

The increase comes as the kingdom is reeling from negative effects of lower oil prices and production boosts from OPEC+ under US pressure.

Saudi Arabia

Analysis

Saudi Arabia bets big on foreign property ownership to power post-oil future

The kingdom’s unprecedented policy shift aims to boost real estate investment while navigating religious and social sensitivities.

By Sabena Siddiqui

In Karachi, reporting on South Asia, Middle East, Iran