Use of eco-friendly rice bricks surges in water-scarce Kyrgyzstan
Rice blocks require less cement, which is responsible for approximately eight percent of global carbon dioxide emissions, according to 2023 figures from the World Economic Forum.
Iran strikes damage hard to assess under Israeli military censorship
Such regulations are nothing new in Israel, where any written or visual publication deemed potentially harmful to the loosely defined concept of "national security" can be banned by law. Censorship predates the creation of Israel in 1948.What is genocide and is it happening in Gaza?
The accusation against Israel of genocide has been made with increasing force from quarters ranging from "Schindler's List" star Ralph Fiennes to Amnesty International and some Israeli historians.New metro cuts through Saudi social divisions
With its eye-watering oil riches, intricate tribal networks and large numbers of foreign workers, Saudi society has long been divided by rigid class structures.A dirham and a dream: Matthews Southwest’s Jay French on future of UAE real estate
From an institutional investor-based viewpoint, it is becoming of interest more now than it ever has been. And that's a credit to what they've been able to build from a critical mass point of view, said French.The backbone of the digital economy is upskilling: Jayney Howson
AI won't replace jobs, but reskilling will unlock its true potential—lifelong learning is the key, Jayney Howson, SVP of Learning and Development at ServiceNow tells TRENDS in an exclusive interview.Renewed sense of renaissance for humanity in the digital economy
Like the Internet revolution before it, AI and the new digital economy are overwhelmingly positive forces for change, Laurent Ross tells TRENDS in an exclusive interview.Stealth to Health: Medical innovation to combat silent killers
The future of healthcare is shifting towards decentralized, preventive care, leveraging AI to anticipate risks and improve long-term health outcomes, Kevin Choi, CEO of Mediwhale tells TRENDSWEF’s risks report 2025: Rising geopolitical tensions, environmental threats, disinformation dominate future threats
A survey of over 900 experts reveals state-based armed conflict as the most pressing global risk for 2025, driven by escalating geopolitical tensions and global fragmentation in cooperation and governanceSaudi Arabia plans to sustain borrowing spree to fund major projects beyond oil: report
Saudi Arabia secured a $2.5 billion revolving credit facility from Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, Credit Agricole SA, and Dubai Islamic Bank, with total 2024 bond funding reaching $50 billion, according to a Bloomberg report.US proposes $8B arms deal with Israel; Biden plans strikes on Houthis as Gaza aid faces Trump-era cuts
The US proposes an $8 billion arms deal with Israel, plans intensified strikes on Yemen's Houthis, while Israel considers cutting Gaza aid following President-elect Trump’s inauguration, signaling shifting Middle East dynamics.Key healthcare digital trends to watch in 2025
From AI-powered content creation to automated feedback systems, technology is streamlining operations and improving patient care.Indian workers replace Palestinians in Israel’s construction sector amid post-war labour void
Indians, long employed in Israel as caregivers, diamond traders, and IT professionals, are now increasingly recruited for the construction sector following the escalation of the Gaza war.GCC tourism growth skyrockets as diversification drive gains momentum post-Covid
GCC countries collaborate on comprehensive tourism strategy, leading global recovery post-pandemic with remarkable growth rates and ambitious plans for sustainable development.Gulf nations embark on defense industry localization
Saudi Arabia leads GCC efforts towards defense self-reliance by creating the first military industries committee, aiming to reduce foreign imports and enhance local capabilities.Gulf nations transition from oil to solar powerhouses
The Gulf region is embracing the future of energy by investing in polysilicon production, crucial for solar panel manufacturing, with Qatar and Saudi Arabia leading from the front.Technology transforms Ramadan traditions across GCC
During Ramadan, GCC residents are using digital tools that are enhancing the observance of this sacred month, offering new ways to connect, learn, and shop.Stable credit conditions make GCC firms resilient
Gulf companies benefit from supportive credit environments, ensuring resilience in 2024 despite global economic challenges and geopolitical risks, says a report.Hyperloop progress: Racing ahead or falling behind?
Over a decade after Elon Musk's hyperloop proposal, no commercial operations have begun, and Virgin Hyperloop shut down in 2023 despite significant investments, reveals TRENDS.Bahrain: Ideal business incubation hub in GCC?
The Kingdom's openness to 100 percent foreign ownership for onshore firms and zero-tax policy make enhance its appeal as business incubation destination.Innovation, expansion spur Gulf retail after pandemic
GCC retail sector evolves dynamically, blending innovation with tradition to woo investment, says Khalifa Bin Braik of Majid Al Futtaim Asset Management.GCC leaps into healthy aging with tech and policy
In the Gulf countries, a transformative journey toward healthy aging is underway, fueled by technological advancements and government initiatives, says an expert.UAE healthcare spending set to reach $30.6bn by 2027
The sector witnesses a shift towards personalized and precision medicine, underscored by healthcare's significant digitization and data generation, says a white paper.Oil sees fluctuating prices, shifting output trends
The crude oil market experienced significant volatility in the year 2023, with prices swinging dramatically, influenced by various global factors.WEF24: Managing risks crucial amid AI advancements
AI can revolutionize work and productivity, but balanced regulation is crucial to prevent misuse, Stephen Pagliuca of Bain Capital tells TRENDS at Davos 2024.AI reshapes UAE’s business strategy, workforce skills
Nearly two-thirds (59 percent) of business leaders in the UAE express their commitment to increasing investments in advanced technology, says a latest report.UAE firms face AI-driven data management hurdles
In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, 91% UAE business leaders are facing critical challenges in aligning data strategies with their business goals, says a latest report.GCC telecom firms turn to Europe, Asia for expansion
Wielding piles of cash and cutting-edge technology, many Arab telecom firms are scouting overseas markets to expand business beyond home territory.GCC eyes economic upswing, business growth in 2024
Despite last year's challenges, the region is set to see robust growth this year, led by the UAE, which is expected to top the economic performance with a 4% GDP growth.West Bank crisis escalates while focus stays on Gaza
With the world's eyes on the Gaza Strip, the escalating violence in the West Bank represents an underreported yet critical dimension of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.Regenerative business models keep UAE ahead globally
With 57% of C-suite executives in the UAE prioritizing regenerative models, the country is leading the global shift towards sustainable and regenerative business practices.Russia, UAE boost energy relations, explore new JVs
The two countries strengthen their partnership, discussing the use of Russian equipment in UAE's energy projects during Putin's significant visit to Abu Dhabi.MENA’s $2trn construction boom boosts sustainability
With innovative technologies and a focus on reducing emissions, this transformation could position the region as a global leader in sustainable urban development.Dubai sets 75% renewable goal by 2050
The emirate’s solar energy capacity has increased by over 100 times in the past decade, and the cost of solar energy has fallen dramatically. It is now one of the cheapest places in the world to generate solar power.Gaza suffers critical food shortages amid conflict
Gaza faces a dire humanitarian crisis as food supplies near exhaustion and the financial sector falls into chaos amid the ongoing conflict, a WFP report points out.Middle East conflict alters regional energy dynamics
Chevron's Tamar gas field halt, rising global oil prices, and jeopardized gas supplies to Egypt and Jordan underscore the impact of geopolitics on energy security.Middle East conflict may disrupt global trade routes
Recent developments spark concerns that the conflict, which is spreading across the region, presents a long-term threat to global energy and commercial infrastructure.KSA, Kuwait lead as Islamic banking prospers in GCC
With the support of Vision 2030 projects and a surge in real estate lending, the banking sector's performance in the Gulf region has been commendable, says a report.Security risks hit gas flow amidst Israel-Hamas row
Israeli decision to suspend gas supply from Tamar field due to security concerns affects energy and gas sector, resulting in weekly losses of hundreds of millions of dollars.Infra investments crucial to Dubai’s growth and global allure
Dubai's iconic skyline and architectural marvels have garnered global attention, offering stunning views for visitors and residents alike. This allure has attracted many to work, live, and invest in the emirate, solidifying Dubai's reputation as a thriving, futuristic metropolis where visionary projects come to life.Global economic concerns hit GCC equity performance
Influenced by global inflation concerns and high rates, Gulf markets faced second consecutive monthly dip in September. Only Dubai and Qatari markets resisted the trend.Archaeology talks unravel past’s influence on future
Insights from the recently held archaeology summit highlight AlUla's prominence as an archaeological epicenter, helping to bridge historical gaps and deepen understanding.Cash transactions dominate Dubai’s property market
This trend, driven by affluent investors and global rate hikes, underscores the city's robust economic allure and the confidence investors place in its property market.Russian and Asian millionaires drive Dubai realty boom
Cryptocurrency magnates, Asian bankers, wealthy Russians, and government reforms are playing a crucial role in solidifying Dubai's global real estate prominence, says a report.Deals with India add pace to Saudi diversification
Riyadh and New Delhi set a new benchmark in global trade and cooperation with 53 deals across diverse sectors and plans for an economic corridor from India to Europe.GCC real estate transactions surge on demand increase
GCC real estate hits $90.7 billion in the first half of 2023, a 9.9% year-on-year increase, with Dubai leading the market, contributing 54 percent to the total value.Energy, commodity prices hurt profits of GCC firms
GCC-listed companies' net profit dropped to US$ 57.9 billion in Q2-2023. While retail, capital goods, and utilities sectors faced profit declines, the banking sector thrived.Saudi smart homes market builds on digitization drive
Saudi Arabia's smart homes market is growing due to government backing, tech advancements, and evolving consumer tastes. As the Kingdom advances toward its Vision 2030 goals, the smart homes sector is poised to play an important role in shaping the country’s future urban landscape.Disparity remains as Saudis, Emiratis see wealth gains
The financial landscape of Saudi Arabia and the UAE is undergoing a significant transformation, with most adults in the region experiencing an increase in their wealth.Global inflationary waves may hit Arab world’s growth
Rising rates and global slowdown pose challenges for economic growth and investment in Arab countries, which expect to expand at 3.4% in 2023, down from 5.6% in 2022.MENA region rides the wave of digital transformation
With an estimated IT spending of $175.5 billion in 2023, the region is embracing digital solutions, leveraging advanced technologies, and investing in flagship projects.