Analysis

UK chases elusive GCC trade deal that could boost exports, economic links

A new charm offensive at Saudi Arabia's flagship investment conference has fueled optimism that a UK-GCC trade pact, under negotiation since 2022, could soon be completed.

By Samuel Wendel

In Washington, DC, reporting on regional business and tech

Newsletter: China-Middle East

China getting ahead in the Gulf

China’s Vice President Han Zheng is visiting Saudi Arabia and Kuwait this week before traveling to Qatar to attend the Second World Summit for Social Development Nov. 3-5.

By Rosaleen Carroll

In Washington, DC, US, reporting on the Middle East

Culture

Archaeologists uncover 4,000-year-old temple on Kuwait’s Failaka Island

Four ancient temples have been discovered on Failaka Island, including two dating to the Dilmun civilization and two from the Hellenistic period.

Kuwait

Analysis

Turkey strengthens defense, energy ties following Erdogan’s Gulf tour

The Turkish president’s Gulf tour saw the signing of over a dozen agreements to strengthen military ties, diversify energy sources and expand economic partnerships amid regional instability.

By Barin Kayaoglu

In Ankara, reporting on geopolitics and national security

Egypt overtakes Kuwait as MENA’s biggest LNG importer: What to know

Last year, the North African country shifted from being a net exporter to a net importer of LNG, due to soaring demand and production declines.

Egypt

Erdogan heads to Gulf as Turkey looks to ease energy dependence on Russia

The Turkish president will visit Kuwait, Oman and Qatar to strengthen economic ties, boost regional diplomacy and sign a series of agreements.

Turkey

Kuwait seeks renewable energy boost as 14 GW power expansion plan takes shape

Kuwait, historically lagging in the Gulf’s energy transition, is moving ahead with plans to expand renewable energy amid efforts to banish power crunches.

Kuwait

Analysis

As Carrefour retreats in Mideast, can new Gulf superstore brand advance?

Amid rising competition and consumer boycotts of Western companies, UAE-based Majid Al Futtaim has begun pulling French retailer Carrefour from Middle East markets and rebranding outlets under a new name: HyperMax.

By Samuel Wendel

In Washington, DC, reporting on regional business and tech

Middle East internet slows after Red Sea cables cut: What to know

Yemen's internationally recognized government accused the Houthi rebels of planning to attack underwater cables in the Red Sea in February 2024.

Kuwait

Analysis

Gulf rail boom rumbles on as 2030 deadline for regional network nears

From 100 million metro riders in Riyadh to a new Oman-UAE railway, Gulf states are pouring money into train transport — but plans for a regional rail network are still taking shape.

By Samuel Wendel

In Washington, DC, reporting on regional business and tech

Analysis

Middle East demand for US debt soars to $400B in turbulent year

The first half of 2025 saw regional investors boost holdings of US Treasuries to record levels, led by the UAE, Israel and Kuwait, as markets digested turbulence from President Trump's trade agenda.

By Samuel Wendel

In Washington, DC, reporting on regional business and tech

From Kuwait to Turkey, why are countries cracking down on Roblox?

The fast-growing gaming platform has been banned in countries including China, Iran, Oman, Qatar, and Turkey.

Kuwait