• UN official urges $4bn humanitarian aid for cash-strapped Syria

    Beirut, Lebanon - A UN official on Friday appealed for about $4 billion in humanitarian assistance for Syria, warning funding was almost non-existent and that lack of support would push more Syrians to emigrate. Syria's war, which began 13 years ago with the repression of anti-government protests, has killed more than...
  • US, Israel hold talks as Gaza truce plan fails at UN

    Israel plans to send troops into Gaza's Rafah even without US support, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Antony Blinken, as Washington failed to pass a UN resolution on an "immediate" ceasefire. Almost six months of Israeli bombardment since Hamas's October 7 attack has brought Gaza to its knees with many...
  • Masdar to buy stake in Terra-Gen

    Masdar to buy 50 percent stake in Terra-Gen from ECP.
  • UAE presses for ‘sustainable development policies’ at BRICS meeting in Brazil

    Sao Paulo, Brazil-- The UAE has affirmed that it collaborates with the BRICS nations in order to establish sustainable development policies, effective financing solutions and an advanced digital infrastructure. This was stated by Mohamed Hadi Al Hussaini, UAE's Minister of State for Financial Affairs at the first BRICS finance ministers...
  • WSG has ushered in a new decade of positive impact: Hamid Al Zaabi

    Dubai, UAE-- The World Governments Summit (WGS) has ushered in a new decade of positive impact, inspiring governments and societies to join the global community in its ongoing journey to shape the future, according to Hamid Al Zaabi, Director-General of the Executive Office for Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Financing...
  • Aldar Properties awards contracts worth US$2.8bn

    ABU DHABI, UAE - Aldar Properties has announced the awarding of 49 contracts, totaling US$5.9 billion (AED22 billion), for a series of projects, including infrastructure, residential, commercial and mixed-use developments across Abu Dhabi in 2023. The contracts were awarded to 36 UAE-based companies with almost 50 percent of the value...
  • Jordan’s EMRC grants approvals for EV charging infrastructure

    AMMAN, JORDAN - The Energy and Minerals Regulatory Commission (EMRC) has issued over 300 authorizations for the installation of electrical metering devices dedicated to electric vehicle charging infrastructure, with the current tally of licensed EV charging facilities standing at 63 across the Kingdom.EMRC records indicate a distribution of 49 publicly...
  • Saudi Arabia sets $54m threshold for public-private partnership projects

    Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - Saudi Arabia has revised the regulations of its Privatization Law, setting the minimum limit for a public-private partnership project at $54 million (SR 200 million). The amended executive regulations, published in the official gazette Umm Al-Qura, outline that the minimum value for the transfer of asset...
  • Egypt grapples with dollar crunch as debt explodes

    With inflation up at 35 percent, and amid a severe foreign currency crunch, the Egyptian pound is plunging and the US dollar has become hard to come by. The country's highly import-reliant economy, dominated by military-linked enterprises and with a fondness for infrastructure mega-projects, has been hit hard by a...
  • UAE, Malaysia sign MoU to enhance ties in digital-infrastructure sector

    Abu Dhabi, UAE-- The UAE and Malaysia have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to boost investment cooperation in the digital-infrastructure sector with an emphasis on data centres in Malaysia. The MoU centres on establishing robust and efficient collaboration through the development of bilateral relationships between public and private organisations....
  • Innovations, investment spur UAE lab equipment surge

    Driven by a growing population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and significant government investments, the UAE's laboratory equipment market is set to hit $1.5b by 2027.
  • Google to invest US$1bn in UK data centre

    It will meet growing demand for internet services in the region.
  • DEWA extends fibre-optic ducts across Dubai by 364 kms in 2023

    Dubai, UAE--The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has laid over 364 kilometres of fibre optic (FO) ducts across different areas in Dubai in 2023. The expansion has increased the total length of these cable ducts to 3,998 kilometres, a 10% increase compared to 2022. This initiative aligns with DEWA's...
  • DEWA unveils new distribution substations

    It commissioned 1,414 substations of 11kv in Dubai.
  • Qatar’s customs and tax departments link up e-services to ‘facilitate’ business

    Doha, Qatar--The General Authority of Customs and the General Tax Authority have announced the launch of the interconnection between their electronic services, as part of the efforts to facilitate procedures for business owners and benefit from the development of the digital infrastructure in Qatar. The interconnection launch announcement comes to...
  • ADQ and Azerbaijan’s AIH set up joint-investment platform

    Abu Dhabi, UAE--ADQ, an Abu Dhabi-based investment and holding company, and Azerbaijan Investment Holding (AIH), a strategic sovereign wealth fund located in Baku, have announced the formation of a joint venture with the aim of investing in sectors of mutual priority and interest, such as agriculture, technology, pharmaceuticals and energy...
  • China, Saudi Arabia sign 60 pacts worth $25bn at Beijing conference

    Beijing, China - China and Saudi Arabia signed over 60 MoUs and agreements worth over $25 billion at the investment conference in Beijing. The conference was attended by more than 1,000 government and business leaders. Agreements were signed in key sectors including energy, agriculture, tourism, mining, financial services, logistics, infrastructure,...
  • Investments strengthen Türkiye-GCC economic ties

    The strategic partnerships, including substantial financial support from UAE and Qatar, mark a new era in Türkiye-GCC ties, promising to significantly boost bilateral trade.
  • UAE signs agreements to develop Kazakhstan renewables sector

    Dubai, UAE--The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kazakhstan signed an agreement outlining a commitment to co-operation in the development of Kazakhstan’s renewables sector, including through the development of a large-scale wind power project with a 1GW capacity. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, oversaw the signing of the...
  • $37 billion private funding announced for new UK projects

    Spanish energy company Iberdrola announced £7 billion of funding for offshore wind infrastructure while US tech giant Microsoft plans to invest £2.5 billion in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure, including data centers.
  • UAE a key player in global financial landscape: NYSE vice-chairman

    Abu Dhabi, UAE--The UAE has solidified its stature as a key player in the global financial landscape, through launching economic projects and initiatives that have made it an ideal partner for the NYSE in exploring new markets, said John Tuttle, Vice Chairman of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and...
  • Dubai witnesses green transit revolution

    Dubai is actively implementing climate adaptation strategies and technologies in transportation and infrastructure to mitigate climate change effects and enhance the city's resilience.
  • Israeli destruction of Gaza housing a war crime: UN expert

    A month of Israeli strikes on targets within the Gaza Strip have destroyed or damaged 45 percent of all housing units in the Palestinian territory, Balakrishnan Rajagopal said, warning the destruction comes at a "tremendous cost to human life". The UN special rapporteur on the right to adequate housing stressed...
  • UAE and Jordan sign MoU to boost investment cooperation

    Abu Dhabi, UAE--The UAE and Jordan have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to create a framework for investment cooperation in key areas including infrastructure and development projects, while further strengthening the two countries’ enduring strategic partnership. The agreement was signed between the Ministries of Investment of the UAE and...
  • Over 8,000 Palestinian fatalities, including 2,062 women, says UN report

    UNITED NATIONS – More than 8,000 Palestinian fatalities were reported as of October 29, 2023, including 2,062 women, 3,324 children, and 460 elderly, according to the latest United Nations Report. “A staggering 67 percent of these fatalities come from 825 families. Additionally, 20,242 injuries have been reported,” said the report,...
  • Hamriyah Freezone and Amazon UAE sign lease agreement for new logistics center

    Sharjah, UAE--Hamriyah Freezone Authority (HFZA) and Amazon UAE have signed a lease agreement for a new logistics centre which will enhance delivery services for customers in the Northern Emirates. In line with HFZA's vision to bolster economic growth and innovation in the region, the agreement supports Amazon UAE’s commitment to...
  • Israel bombs Syria’s ‘military infrastructure’ in air raids

    According to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), its jets hit military infrastructure and mortar launchers of the Syrian Army in retaliation for "the launches toward Israel yesterday." The strikes were inside Syria. Fears are growing that Israel's war with Hamas will create wider regional turmoil, and especially further inflame existing...
  • KEZAD Group signs lease agreement with Advanced Petro Services

    ABU DHABI, UAE - Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD) Group, the integrated trade, logistics, and industrial hub of Abu Dhabi announced the signing of a land lease agreement with Advanced Petro Services (APS), a leading provider of specialised services in the energy industry. KEZAD’s world-class industrial ecosystem is equipped...
  • Total of 52 MoUs signed in Saudi-Korean Investment Forum

    RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – A total of 52 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed at the Saudi-Korean Investment Forum here. The MoUs were signed by both government and private entities. Government agencies signed four MoUs with the private sector in areas such as real estate development, automotive, and water. President...
  • Policy and infra drive Dubai’s global rise

    The emirate's pro-business policies, dedicated trade zones, and emphasis on tech innovation position it as a premier financial hub, George Pavel of Capex.com tells TRENDS in an interview.
  • World must add or replace 80 million km of grids by 2040: IEA

    Paris, France-- Achieving all national climate and energy goals will require adding or replacing 80 million kilometres of power lines by 2040 – an amount equal to the entire existing global grid – according to the International Energy Agency. Major changes to how grids operate and are regulated are also...
  • Masdar City and Huawei sign MoU to power UAE’s transition to net zero

    Dubai, UAE--Masdar City and Huawei have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enable the UAE to power its way to net zero target. The agreement, signed today at GITEX GLOBAL 2023 by key Masdar City and Huawei leaders, will lead to knowledge-sharing and capacity-building in net-zero development, help reduce...
  • Egypt sells MENA’s first ‘sustainable panda bonds’ in US$500m issue

    Cairo, Egypt--Egypt has issued the first sustainable Panda bonds in the Middle East and North Africa worth $500 million with a yield of 3.5% over three years, according to a statement by the Ministry of Finance. The recent bond issuance is guaranteed by international banks including the Asian Infrastructure Investment...
  • Need to end charging infrastructure bias as EVs rise

    "Convenient and affordable charging primarily benefits private homeowners who can easily install EV charging equipment on their property and use it to charge their vehicles securely and conveniently overnight. The path forward is clear: We need more chargers, and they need to be accessible to everyone," she adds.
  • 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.
  • Circular economy is a critical pathway to build sustainable future: Almheiri

    Dubai, UAE-- Terming the circular economy as a critical pathway that builds a sustainable future by preserving natural resources, reducing waste, and promoting the conservation of resources at source, Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change & Environment, emphasized that it not only promotes environmental sustainability but also presents...
  • Saudi Arabia, Pakistan ink pact on digital transformation, innovation

    RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA - The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Pakistan here on Sunday to expand bilateral cooperation in communications and information technology by accelerating digital transformation, promoting innovation and developing digital infrastructure. Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology Eng. Abdullah Alswaha...
  • Jordan seeks World Bank support to boost infrastructure projects

    Amman, Jordan-- Jordan and the World Bank have held discussions to enhance cooperation in infrastructure projects and the public-private partnerships. In this connection, Jordanian Minister of Investment Kholoud Al Saqqaf met with World Bank Vice President for Infrastructure Affairs Guangzhe Chen in Amman. During the meeting, Al Saqqaf reviewed a...
  • Kuwait and China sign raft of agreements to bolster ties

    Looking to shore up ties between the two countries, Kuwait and China have signed cooperation agreements across a range of sectors, including renewable energy, infrastructure, low-carbon recycling. The agreements were signed in the Chinese city of Hangzhou and were presided over by Kuwait's crown prince and Chinese president.
  • IMF to exhort China to shift growth model toward consumption

    Washington, US--The International Monetary Fund plans to tell China to boost weak domestic consumption, address its troubled real estate sector, and rein in local government debt, problems that are dragging down both Chinese and global growth, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva told a media outlet. The Fund will strongly urge...
  • Libya flood toll is partly due to years of division, say analysts

    TRIPOLI, LIBYA - Over a decade of bloody power battles in Libya have resulted in vital infrastructure falling into disrepair, culminating in the catastrophic death toll in Sunday's flood, politicians and analysts have said.   Wracked by conflict and division ever since a NATO-backed uprising toppled and killed longtime dictator Moamer...
  • Mega projects bet high on diversified future

    This TRENDS infographic dives into Saudi Arabia’s ambitious transformation to discover how the Kingdom is reshaping its future with high investments in the real estate sector and infrastructure projects.
  • GCC poised to help MENA in global trade integration

    With MENA accounting for just 7.4% of global trade in 2022, GCC's strategic initiatives and resources can pave the way for regional trade integration and global prominence.
  • Masdar, Africa50 sign MoU

    The aim is to speed up clean energy transition in Africa.
  • Jordan secures US$1.9bn in foreign aid amid dire global economic conditions

    Amman, Jordan--Jordan has succeeded in securing US$1.9 billion in foreign aid and negotiations are underway to ramp it to $3.2 billion by the end of the year. Addressing Jordan's financial assistance at a forum convened by the government on the shores of the Dead Sea on Friday, Minister of Planning...
  • GCC power and water projects benefit from lower risks, government support: Report

    LONDON —Strategically important power and water projects controlled by GCC governments or government-related entities (GRE), are benefitting from the support and lower risks, according to the latest report by Fitch Ratings. GCC governments typically play multiple roles in power and water desalination projects, often controlling project companies with minority stakes...
  • Expo bid validates Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic skills

    While challenges remain in Saudi Arabia's bid for the Expo 2030 despite increasing global support, the Kingdom seems determined to continue its journey of transformation, with or without the Expo, marking a new era for Saudi Arabia on the international stage, the India-based journalist adds.
  • Flying taxis: Saudi Arabia stares at sustainable skies

    NEOM, the Kingdom's futuristic city, hosts Volocopter's pioneering eVTOL aircraft test flights, marking a substantial stride towards sustainable, smart mobility.
  • $1.3trn mineral reserves shift Saudi focus to mining

    The Kingdom, leveraging its significant copper reserves across the nation, seeks to address the global shortage, particularly crucial amid the transition towards clean energy.
  • UAE commits $15m to rebuild Palestinian city of Jenin after Israeli attack

    Dubai, UAE - The United Arab Emirates (UAE) pledged on Thursday $15 million to support the rebuilding efforts in the Palestinian city of Jenin in the occupied West Bank. The announcement comes in the wake of a major Israeli operation in the area earlier this week, which resulted in significant...
  • Sheikh Hamdan launches first phase of waste-to-energy project

    Making a strong push for transition to a green economy by building a clean energy infrastructure, Dubai saw the launch of the first phase of the plant at Warsan. Speaking at the site, the crown prince of Dubai said that the emirate has steadily expanded its capacity to produce energy...