Ankara, Turkey-- The Gulf Cooperation Council and Turkey have started off free trade negotiations to deepen their ties further.In this connection, Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of GCC, and Dr. Omer Bolat, Minister of Trade of Turkey, signed a joint statement to initiate negotiations between the GCC and Turkey.Albudaiwi said...

Brussels, Belgium-- The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the European Union have held talks in Brussels in order to enhance relations between the two blocs.In this connection, Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), today held a discussion session with members of the European Union (EU) Political...

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.

International education is evolving in the Gulf region amid unique challenges and strengths, Rania Hussein, Deputy Head at the Swiss International School Dubai, tells TRENDS.

Dubai, UAE--Dubai welcomed 1.77 million international tourists in January 2024, an increase of 21% compared to 1.47 million visitors in the same period of 2023.According to the Dubai Tourism Performance Report for January issued by the Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism, Western Europe ranked first in terms of source...

GCC Secretary General Jasem Albudaiwi calls for visa-free travel to Europe, aiming to simplify the journey for Gulf citizens to the continent.

Abu Dhabi, UAE -- The launch of Gulf Cooperation Council's first UAE bond Exchange Traded Fund (ETF), which will list on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), was announced Thursday by Lunate Capital Limited, an Abu Dhabi-based investment management firm licensed by the ADGM Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA).The Chimera...

Doha, Qatar - The women returning to the workforce following a career break have the potential to contribute nearly US$385bn to the GDP across nine countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. says a PwC Middle East’s survey.82% of these women believe that they can progress to...

The region is in decarbonizing the built environment, with a focus on sustainable urban planning, energy-efficient buildings, and renewable energy integration.

Dubai, UAE - The UAE's online shopping market is gearing up for unprecedented growth, with revenue projections hitting $9 billion by the end of 2024 and an impressive $17 billion forecasted for 2025. The trajectory is emblematic of the broader Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region's e-commerce landscape, poised...

Driven by resilience, legislation, and determination, the female populace is reshaping the socio-economic fabric of the Gulf countries, a TRENDS report suggests.

Gulf companies benefit from supportive credit environments, ensuring resilience in 2024 despite global economic challenges and geopolitical risks, says a report.

Doha, Qatar--Governor of Qatar Central Bank Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud Al-Thani has called for strengthening joint action among the Arab Gulf states, especially in light of the economic and financial challenges that the world is experiencing in relation with growth, sustainable development, financial stability, and interest rate policies,...

Abu Dhabi, UAE--Ireland wants to become a gateway for the UAE and other Gulf states to the European Union (EU) market, Simon Coveney, Ireland’s Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, told the Emirates News Agency (WAM).As evidence of thriving relations, he highlighted the growing Irish diaspora in Gulf Cooperation Council...

Abu Dhabi, UAE - The Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) on Friday announced that its operating and maintenance subsidiary, Nawah Energy Company, has successfully started-up the reactor of Unit 4 of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant (Barakah Plant).The reactor has begun initial production of heat through nuclear fission, used for...

Technology, from digital platforms to AI, offers a transformative avenue for empowering women, says Isabel Neiva of Kearney Middle East & Africa.

During his meeting with OPEC Secretary General Haitham Al Ghais, Albudaiwi praises the significant efforts of OPEC and its crucial role in maintaining the stability and balance of oil markets and addressing future challenges, in coordination with member states of the bloc.

The GCC is at a critical juncture, facing the dual challenge of embracing blockchain innovation while combating crypto crime, says Nicola Buonanno of Chainalysis.

Munich, Germany-- The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Sweden have discussed ways to ramp up cooperation in several areas, besides looking to enhance ties between the GCC and variou European nations.In this regard, Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary-General of the GCC, and Tobias Billström, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom...

The Kingdom's openness to 100 percent foreign ownership for onshore firms and zero-tax policy make enhance its appeal as business incubation destination.

Retailers in the region are relying on card-linked offers, utilizing data analytics, mobile apps, and blockchain to enhance engagement and personalize shopping experiences.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Wednesday said he will make efforts to achieve the unity of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries as well as the stability and prosperity of their people.Mohammed bin Salman, who is also the prime minister of Saudi Arabia said this...

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia--Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), held a virtual meeting with ministers from the region to discuss a strategy for food security in the Middle East.Ministers responsible for agriculture and food security from the GCC countries attended the meeting.The meeting discussed the future...

In the Gulf countries, a transformative journey toward healthy aging is underway, fueled by technological advancements and government initiatives, says an expert.

Abu Dhabi, UAE--Despite geopolitical uncertainties and potential economic headwinds, S&P Global expects GCC banks to maintain their well-capitalised, profitable, and liquid status.S&P Global‘s ‘GCC Banking Sector Outlook 2024’ reveals a challenging yet optimistic perspective. The ratings agency anticipates overall stability in key metrics for GCC banks in 2024. Credit growth...

Abu Dhabi, UAE--In a significant move that underscores the interconnectedness of global monetary policies, central banks across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have announced decisions to hold their interest rates steady, mirroring the recent actions of the US Federal Reserve. This collective stance reflects a cautious approach to navigating the...

The 2024 outlook for the MENA region's project market is exceptional, with an anticipated surpassing of $270 billion in value, according to a latest report.

The firm said the new brand will replace MiCCO Logistics.

The F&B packaging industry in the region adapts to post-COVID consumer behaviors, emphasizing health, wellness, and sustainability, Abdelghany Eladib of SIG tells TRENDS.

Manama, Bahrain-- Bahrain and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) are looking to boost cooperation in the convention and conference industry in the region.In this regard a meeting was held in Dubai to discuss ways to enhance collaboration at the level of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.Fatima bint Jaafar Al...

Dubai, UAE -- Sunset Hospitality Group (SHG) is more than just a collection of hotels, restaurants, and beach clubs. Renowned for crafting "lifestyle hospitality experiences," SHG blends luxury, entertainment and local flavor.TRENDS spoke with Antonio Gonzalez, CEO of Sunset Hospitality Group, about the Group's vision and how it has steadily built...

The 5-year, iron-ore pellets supply deal was signed with BSC.

In the GCC's evolving cybersecurity realm, AI integration is crucial, driving economic growth and transforming defense strategies against complex cyber threats.

A shift to green tech and renewable energy is fostering the Gulf economy's resilience and diversification for a sustainable future, says Phil Malem of Serco Middle East.

Oman emerges top performer in the GCC region.

With growing interest in eco-friendly and socially responsible products, gift businesses in the region are adapting by integrating sustainable options into their offerings.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia--Jasem Mohamed Al Budaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and Josep Borrell, High Representative of the European Union (EU) for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, have reviewed relations in a meeting in Riyadh.The meeting discussed the latest developments and updates in both the regional and...

The emirate ranked 28th globally in the 2023 Urban Mobility Readiness Index, highlighting its efforts in creating a sustainable, future-ready transportation ecosystem.

Doha, Qatar -- Qatar witnessed a 36.1 percent increase in the number of inbound visitors in November 2023, compared to 2023, to a total of 393,000, but a 33.5 year-on-year decrease.The highest number of visitors was from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) at 46 percent. As for visitors by type of...

Amid ongoing US-China technological rivalry, Gulf countries face crucial choices in balancing their economic and technological relations with both superpowers.

Manama, Bahrain-- The GCC Commercial Arbitration Centre has started to harness AI techniques, according to its secretary general, Dr. Kamal bin Abdullah Al Hamad.The initiative aims to enhance international commercial arbitration processes, aligning with the national visions of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries. It is in harmony with the prevailing...

In 2023, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman and Kuwait collectively advanced in technology and sustainable development, achieving global integration.

"The implementation of such free trade agreements follows directives from GCC leaders aimed at strengthening economic ties with other countries and international blocs and fostering joint trade and investment interests," he adds, noting that the deal signifies a shared commitment to bolster the strategic alliance and economic cooperation.

The US$3m-contract is for the laying of GRE pipes in Hatta.

MENA countries, adopting ambitious clean energy and transportation strategies, aim for significant hydrogen production by 2050, led by UAE's National Hydrogen Strategy.

The GCC faces a critical challenge as climate risks like extreme heat and water stress rise, potentially impacting the region's economic stability and financial health.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - Saudi Arabia on Tuesday introduced 'KSA VISA,' a unified visa platform aimed at streamlining visa application processes. The initiative is a step in the kingdom's strategy to bolster tourism in the forthcoming years.Abdul Hadi Al-Mansouri, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Executive Affairs, unveiled the platform...

Amid ongoing US-China technological rivalry, Gulf countries face crucial choices in balancing their economic and technological relations with both superpowers.

"Critical infrastructure organizations are distinct from other enterprises; their downfall could bring entire sectors of the economy down with them. It is hoped that in the coming year, the industrial control system's security will receive the comprehensive overhaul it so urgently requires," adds Selcuk.

Reeling from a calamitous drop in advertisement revenues and public trust, news media organizations are reworking strategies to create "niche" content.