Iran’s Hormuz Position Keeps Gulf Shipping Negotiations Fragile
Tehran’s insistence on control over the Strait of Hormuz adds complexity to a diplomatic process that Gulf economies need to convert into stable trade…
Countries
Country and regional coverage across the Gulf and wider Middle East.
US-Iran Technical Talks in Doha Put Hormuz at the Centre of the Peace Process
Negotiations hosted in Qatar are shifting from ceasefire language to the practical mechanics of maritime security, shipping access and energy flows.
OPEC+ Weighs Another August Output Increase as Prices Cool
The group is expected to continue unwinding voluntary cuts, but the return of supply while prices soften may test unity among major producers.
OPEC Output Jumps in June as Gulf Producers Bring Barrels Back
A Reuters survey shows a major recovery in OPEC production after months of disruption, led by Gulf producers and a gradual reopening of regional…
Chinese Refiners Turn to Discounted Middle Eastern Crude as Supply Rises
A post-disruption surge in Gulf supply is giving independent Chinese refiners access to discounted non-sanctioned barrels, changing the pricing balance with Russian and Iranian…
Gulf Oil Exports Rebound as Record UAE Flows Ease Supply Pressure
Ship-tracking data point to a sharp June recovery in regional energy flows, although exports remain below pre-war volumes and shipping risk has not disappeared.
World Cup Momentum Could Lift Gulf Travel and Consumer Spending
A record Arab presence at the 2026 tournament is expected to support regional airlines, hospitality groups, restaurants, streaming platforms and payment providers.
Syria Secures Green Climate Fund Project to Tackle Water Scarcity
The approval gives Damascus its first national GCF project and opens a channel for climate finance focused on water security, agriculture and adaptation.
Oman Launches $250 Million Real Estate Development Fund
The new vehicle aims to provide structured capital for viable property projects as the Sultanate builds momentum under Oman Vision 2040.
Saudi Tourism Turns to AI as the Kingdom Personalises Travel
Artificial intelligence is moving from booking support into destination discovery, customer-service design and the diversification of tourism beyond traditional hubs.