Middle East makes mark in Global Soft Power Index

• TRENDS Infographics explores prominent Arab nations in the latest Global Soft Power Index, with the UAE leading the way by entering the top 10, a first for the Middle East
• Other GCC countries, including Oman, also show improvements in the index, which measures nations' influence and reputation across various sectors and a variety of metrics

GCC power and water projects benefit from lower risks, government support: Report

• GCC governments play multiple roles, including offtakers, gas suppliers, grid operators, and land lessors
• Robust contractual provisions include 20- to 30-year fuel supply and offtake agreements with fixed prices.

‘UAE’s compliance level high in anti-money laundering’

• The UAE has achieved the highest compliance levels in anti-money laundering, developing an advanced ecosystem in line with global best practices
• The Gulf country seeks to foster regional and international cooperation with partners, contributing to establishing a sustainable AML ecosystem

Teachers play key role in shaping future generations

• Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, the UAE’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the EHRC, underscores the pivotal role of teachers in shaping the future
• The UAE minister emphasizes that teachers are not just imparting academic knowledge but are also instrumental in the formation of balanced personalities

Riyadh, Jeddah among world’s least expensive cities

• Key global reports list Saudi Arabia's Riyadh and Jeddah among the world's least expensive cities for living. TRENDS finds out the cost of living in other cities of the Kingdom
• Affordability and stability of Saudi cities make them attractive destinations for both locals and expatriates seeking a cost-effective living environment, TRENDS points out

Saudi Arabia aims for 30% marine reserves by 2030

• Saudi Arabia is collaborating with regional countries and the International Maritime Organization to establish the Red Sea as a special marine zone by 2025
• The Kingdom has implemented a circular strategy for the carbon economy and introduced a new waste management law to increase recycling rates

Tourism turns the Kingdom into a rising global star

Sharjah records first half real estate deals worth $3.65 billion

• A total of 40,483 transactions took place in the first half of 2023, and the value of real estate mortgages amounted to AED4.1 billion ($1.12bn)
• The number of sales transactions in the various regions of the emirate during H1 2023 reached 4,187 transactions, with a value of AED5.7 billion ($1.55bn)

Rise in foreign sukuk offset by local currency decline

• Saudi Arabia's reduced banking liquidity and lower oil prices have led to a decline in local currency sukuk, but a surge in foreign currency issuances, says a report
• A new report by S&P Global Ratings indicates mixed activity levels, suggesting the need for harmonization of Sharia standards to attract non-core jurisdictions

Middle East tackles AI hurdles, embraces opportunities

• The region, rich in history and culture, is expected to accumulate substantial global AI benefits, reshaping its traditional sectors and driving innovation, reports suggest
• Tradition and technology harmoniously coexist in Middle East as it stays committed to AI integration despite some industries grappling with implementation challenges