Weekly News Digest

Algeria tests new port organisation at Mostaganem

Mostaganem is the first test bed for a gradual reorganisation of the national port network around infrastructure specialisation.

Bahrain to showcase tourism investment opportunities

The International Tourism Investment Forum runs 10–12 January under the patronage of the Crown Prince, in partnership with UN Tourism.

Bahrain Islamic insurance sector ‘poised for growth’

Moody’s says economic growth, low insurance penetration and financial inclusion measures should drive expansion over two to three years.

Bahrain iGA and Saudi Data and AI Authority expand data and AI cooperation

An MoU between the iGA and SDAIA will strengthen cooperation and exchange of expertise in data and artificial intelligence.

Alba producing 1.3 million tons of aluminium a year

Aluminium Bahrain is running at an annualised 1.3 million metric tons, against a pre-Iran war capacity of around 1.6 million tons.

Egypt sees 33.7% rise in newly established foreign companies in H1 2026

5,022 foreign companies were established in the first half, up from 3,757, with issued capital inflows up 20.9% to EGP 21.4bn.

Private sector captures 63% of Egypt’s total investments

Private investment rose 32% over the past year, making the private sector the largest contributor to growth, the finance minister said.

Egypt Mining Forum 2026 to open in Cairo

The two-day forum opens on 28 September with more than 6,000 attendees from over 50 countries — its largest edition yet.

FRA approves 11 companies for non-banking financial activities

The Financial Regulatory Authority licensed 11 entities alongside new investment funds and specialised companies.

Egypt develops eight integrated logistics corridors

The corridors link Red Sea and Mediterranean ports with the Suez Canal, dry ports and industrial, agricultural and mining zones.

GAFI approves first four projects in Al Ahly Industrial Development zone

The board reviewed progress on the Abu Rawash master plan and the zone’s success in attracting new projects.

Suez Canal traffic rises 27% in August

1,358 vessels transited in August carrying 68.3 million net tonnes and generating $567.1m in revenues.

UK firm in talks with Iraq on date palm production

A British company discussed tissue-culture date palm propagation, acclimatisation techniques and date production with the Ministry of Agriculture.

New Siemens Energy cooperation deal for Iraq

The Ministry of Electricity and Siemens signed a Principles of Cooperation Agreement covering a fourth phase of collaboration.

New mechanism to automate customs duty pre-payment

An implementation mechanism for pre-collection of customs duties has been finalised under Cabinet Decision No. 413 of 2026.

Gas investment plans reviewed for Nahr Bin Umar field

Plans to develop associated gas at the Basra field were reviewed by the Deputy Minister of Oil for Gas Affairs.

New import controls and export drive from Ministry of Trade

The ministry is regulating imports in line with legal frameworks, balancing market access with protection for consumers and producers.

EBRD and EU boost trade finance in Iraq

A $25 million trade finance facility has been extended to Bank of Baghdad under the EBRD’s Trade Facilitation Programme.

Government plans $10bn PPP projects over next three to four years

Mega projects under the public-private partnership framework will cover water, energy, transport, infrastructure and public services.

Jordan’s diverse investment opportunities attract Europeans

A portfolio worth nearly $15bn was unveiled ahead of the first Jordanian-European Investment Conference on 19 November.

JSF urges Jordanian companies to integrate AI into core operations

A new Jordan Strategy Forum paper examines how far private-sector businesses are adopting advanced AI tools.

ACC and UK envoy discuss follow-up to King’s London visit

The Amman Chamber of Commerce and Ambassador Philip Hall discussed translating July’s outcomes into economic initiatives.

Exports climb 14% as kingdom moves to open new trade markets

Total exports grew more than 14% in H1 2026 as the government targets Africa and Central Asia and advances its PPP pipeline.

Expatriate remittances rise 14.1% to $2.97bn by end-July

Central Bank of Jordan data show July inflows alone grew 13.1% to $470.2 million.

Zain marks conclusion of ‘Kuwait Codes’ programme

Students showcased their projects at Al Shaheed Park as Zain Kuwait closed the latest season with CODED Academy.

Alshaya opens first company-owned distribution centre in Kuwait

The West Abdullah Mubarak site marks a milestone in the franchise operator’s logistics and supply chain development.

“Libyan-British Business Day” to be held in London on 23 November

The Libyan Business Council event follows the cooperation agreement between the Joint Libyan-British Business Council and the West London Chamber of Commerce.

Central Bank governor holds London talks with UK Foreign Office chief economist

Discussions focused on implementing the Unified Spending Framework and strengthening fiscal policy coordination.

Misrata Free Zone signs investment agreement with Turkey’s MEKA Global

The Turkish company will establish and operate a major branch within the Zone.

Germany’s BMA to construct 2,500 tonnes-per-day Julyana sugar plant

Julyana Free Zone signed the construction contract with BMA, one of the world’s leading sugar manufacturing firms.

OCP Maintenance Solutions partners with NTN Europe on AI predictive maintenance

The partnership brings AI-powered predictive maintenance to industrial companies across Europe.

US auto supplier Veritas completes first Morocco and Africa plant in Tangier

The new facility produces rubber, plastic, aluminium and steel cooling, fluid management and climate control systems.

Fitch affirms Morocco at BB+ with stable outlook

The agency cited sound macroeconomic policies and external liquidity buffers against high debt and weather exposure.

Bank Populaire launches Morocco’s first numberless bank card

The card removes the 16-digit number and CVV to reduce exposure of sensitive details if lost, stolen or photographed.

His Majesty ratifies Digital Cooperation Organization Charter

Royal Decree No. 86/2026 ratifies the Charter signed in Riyadh in February 2023.

Oman to host regional bitumen, base oil and logistics gathering

The seventh AMEA Oman 2026 expo convenes in Muscat on 23 November around regional trade and supply-chain connectivity.

Oman’s non-oil exports rise 10.7% to RO4.3bn through July

Re-exports climbed 13.6% to RO1.140bn, with growth to the UAE and US offsetting declines to Saudi Arabia and South Korea.

OCCI unveils new headquarters design

The Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry revealed its Madinat Al Irfan headquarters design at the Achievement Partners’ Forum.

OCCI investment portfolio jumps 45% to over OMR67mn

The Chamber marked four years of work strengthening the private sector’s role in economic development.

Oman health expo targets investment and innovation

The 15th Oman Health Exhibition and Conference opened on 21 September, presenting pharmaceuticals, medical products and health technology.

Research project explores harvesting water from air for sustainable agriculture

The project combines atmospheric water harvesting with solar-powered greenhouse and hydroponic systems.

Oman’s cultural sector records growth across key fields in 2025

The NCSI bulletin Culture Statistics 2026 tracks indicators across the Sultanate’s cultural fields and activities.

Qatar unveils 5-year pipeline of $60bn projects and opportunities

A new platform, Doha Investment, will manage and grow the Qatar Investment Authority’s domestic portfolio.

Qatar Investment Authority and J.P. Morgan Asset Management plan $20bn partnership

The partnership spans public equities and private credit, expanding the sovereign fund’s US investment ties.

Qatar’s non-hydrocarbon GDP share rises to about 70%

The non-hydrocarbon economy is up from 40% in 2011 as diversification continues, the QCB governor said.

Qatar economic and investment activity remains robust

The Minister of Commerce and Industry spoke on the sidelines of the Qatar Economic Forum: UNGA Special Edition 2026 in New York.

QFZ signs strategic MoU with Emerson on industrial automation

The agreement covers industrial automation and technical services, with a regional operations centre in Qatar’s free zones.

Qatar Tourism unveils 2026-2027 calendar featuring 560+ events

The calendar spans cultural, entertainment and sporting events in partnership with nearly 780 stakeholders.

Qatar infrastructure provides base for Gulf-China trade expansion

Converting logistics foundations into direct commercial access requires the private sector to bridge the operational gap.

Qatar Foundation calls for global coalition on sport and social development

Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al-Thani addressed a high-level dialogue hosted by Qatar Foundation and Wilton Park.

Saudi Arabia’s economy is projected to grow by 6.1% in 2027

A Bloomberg survey of 15 economists forecasts around 0.6% growth this year and a stronger recovery next year.

Saudi port container traffic surges 52.9% as cargo exceeds 341 million tons

Inbound and outbound container traffic reached approximately 3.89 million containers in 2025, GASTAT said.

PIF launches Tawrid to provide supply-chain financing

The digital platform has a SAMA permit to operate under the regulatory sandbox, serving companies in the Saudi market.

Saudi Arabia moving towards greater investment in R&D and homegrown innovation

The focus is shifting to R&D, IP control and commercialising homegrown technologies, according to Al Tamimi & Company.

Saudi Arabia leads globally as a destination for project investment

Participants at the fifth Global Project Management Forum in Riyadh shared international best practice on project delivery.

BEC Arabia secures $207m MEP contract for Saudi hospital project

Almoosa Health awarded the SAR781.7 million mechanical and electrical package for its Al Khobar specialist hospital.

Second TOURISE forum to be held in Riyadh in March

TOURISE 2027, themed “Alliances That Move the World”, runs 23–25 March 2027.

Saudia Real Estate and Jasara to advance project development and delivery

The framework agreement supports national development priorities and Vision 2030 objectives.

Unigaz Arabia in deal to develop integrated Saudi gas storage plant

The SAR70 million ($18.5m) project covers gas storage, filling and distribution in the Hail region.

Umm Al Qura inks deal for 250-unit residential project in Masar Destination

A land sale agreement with Rawajeh Group covers a residential tower with premium lifestyle amenities in Zone 2.

Riyadh opens the way for driverless parcel delivery

By mid-November, 24 autonomous trucks are expected to begin trial operations on the capital’s roads.

Syria and Arab banks discuss cooperation and licensing new banks

Central Bank Governor Mohammad Safwat Raslan held bilateral meetings in Amman on new channels for joint banking work.

Syria and Iraq agree digital customs link at Tanf crossing

Electronically linking customs systems should streamline procedures, strengthen data-sharing and speed up transactions.

CargoSyr 2026 highlights Syria’s role in regional land and sea trade routes

The international transport, freight and logistics exhibition focused on Syria’s position linking land and maritime routes.

As water grows scarce, Syrian farmers test soil-free agriculture

A hydroponics project east of Homs grows lettuce, cucumbers and strawberries with far less water than conventional farming.

Tunisia improves its global attractiveness

Tunisia ranked 105th of 146 economies in the Global Attractiveness Index 2026, up 12 places from 2025.

Tunis committed to opening up its trade policy

Tunisia is consolidating transparency and diversifying trade partnerships to integrate into regional and global value chains.

Two industrial factories put up for sale by TDA Invest

The complete sale of two operating industrial units is presented as an opportunity in steel and building materials.

International FinTech industry ranks Dubai first in the world

The latest Global Financial Centres Index puts Dubai top for FinTech and keeps it the region’s only global top-ten centre.

Dubai approves $953m road project linking Sharjah and Abu Dhabi

The scheme includes 72 bridges, 17 tunnels and 45 stormwater culverts, serving Al Maktoum International Airport and the Etihad Rail route.

DHL Express and IFZA join forces to help Dubai businesses expand globally

The partnership is designed to help Dubai-established businesses move into international markets.

Schneider Electric launches new artificial intelligence study

The 2026 Industrial AI in CPG Study: UAE, focused on food and beverage manufacturers, launched at the Innovation Summit in Abu Dhabi.

RAK property market sees strong demand in H1, apartment prices up 18%

CBRE research points to demand for residential and tourism assets and a growing pipeline of major developments.

Ajman Real Estate Investment Exhibition records AED226 million in deals

344 transactions were recorded on the third day, with 6,936 visitors at the Emirates Hospitality Hall.

Al Ain Future Business Forum to chart next phase of economic transformation

ADDED’s inaugural forum runs 23–24 September at ADNEC Centre Al Ain, focusing on talent, innovation and advanced technologies.

Aldar launches Talay, first residential community at Marsa Al Saadiyat

351 standalone villas go on sale from 23 September as part of the final phase of the Saadiyat Island masterplan.

UAE launches ‘Visit UAE’ identity and ‘UAE Grand Tour’ at ATM 2026

The first unified federal tourism identity is joined by a platform offering multi-emirate itineraries of up to 14 days.

Menassah showcases over 1,000 Emirati titles at Abu Dhabi International Book Fair

The distributor is strengthening the presence of Emirati publishing houses at one of the region’s leading cultural events.

Policy alignment positions Gulf as air mobility hub

Aligned government policy, greenfield infrastructure and capital availability make the Gulf the leading launch market for advanced air mobility.

GCC committed to stronger global partnerships

Secretary General Jasem Al-Budaiwi said participation in international forums reflects the bloc’s growing global standing.

International tourism holds steady with 0.4% growth in first half of 2026

Global arrivals grew modestly as Middle East insecurity, oil prices and inflation tested the sector’s resilience.

Borrowing surge puts pressure on chancellor ahead of Budget

August borrowing was £18.3bn, almost a fifth higher than a year earlier, as higher inflation pushed up spending.

Finance chiefs lobby Healey to protect City from fresh tax grab

City chiefs warned against a tax grab on financial services and called for simplification of Britain’s tax system.

How mansion tax changes could triple the number of payers in suburban London

The measure was introduced to address what the then-Chancellor called a longstanding source of wealth inequality.

Manchester to host world leaders at G20 summit in 2027

The summit takes place on 27–28 November 2027 at Manchester Central — the largest ever held in the city.

Bank of England to open new Leeds office in 2028

A long-term site at Capitol House, Bond Court will house the Bank’s growing headcount in the city.

Narrowing the ‘protection gap’ could cushion families from financial shocks

FCA research indicates 58% of adults have no life insurance, critical illness cover or income protection.

Trade union boss among appointments to Bank of England board

TUC general secretary Paul Nowak takes a non-executive director position on a four-year term.

London AI infrastructure firm Nscale files for $35bn US listing

The Nvidia-backed cloud provider will also offer UK retail investors shares via Retailbook.

Davey calls for AI ‘pause’ as Burnham inks US-UK tech deal

The Liberal Democrat leader urged a treaty on super-intelligent AI as Andy Burnham unveiled a deal with President Trump.

Why small businesses could be the big winners from AI

Government research shows an early adoption gap, but AI may still power small business growth.

AI data centres: why cities including London are rebelling against big tech

Large metallic sheds are spreading across London suburbs, prompting a growing local backlash.

International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF)

Supporting strategic international partnerships in science, research, technology and innovation.

Airbus to create 480 new jobs in boost to UK aerospace industry

A £150 million investment converts the former A380 wing facility at Broughton into an A321 line.

JLR suppliers call for shift to aerospace

Major suppliers urged government help to move into aerospace and defence as UK car production faces long-term decline.

Tech the only bright spot as job security fears climb to highest level since 2023

S&P Global’s UK consumer index shows job security at a three-and-a-half year low outside IT and telecoms.

Soaring fuel costs hit small businesses

A Worcestershire haulage operator says he is absorbing thousands of pounds a month in extra fuel costs.

Costain lined up for £100m South Kensington Tube revamp

TfL is pressing ahead with a long-awaited transformation of the historic transport hub.

HG starts £76m West London tower and homes scheme

HG Construction will deliver student accommodation and affordable housing in South Acton.

Mace to restart £200m Oxford labs job after design rethink

A design rethink will force parts of the already-built structure to be demolished.

BBV pulls off mammoth HS2 M42 bridge treble

Balfour Beatty Vinci dropped the final two 1,000-tonne viaduct spans into place over the M42 near Birmingham.

McLaren gets nod for £65m Hackney co-living mid-rises

Planning permission granted for co-living and affordable housing at Fish Island, Hackney Wick.

Cardo builds £314m maintenance giant in takeover blitz

A rapid acquisition spree has transformed the scale of the building maintenance specialist.

The return of VAT-free shopping will boost Britain’s towns and cities

VisitBritain data show real-terms visitor spending is lower than before tax-free shopping was abolished in 2021.

UK consumer confidence falls as retail workers report rising job fears

Confidence slipped to a three-month low in September on interest rates, job security and cost of living.

Mothercare warns future ‘highly uncertain’ after Middle East franchise blow

Its Middle East partner is set to close most franchised stores across the region next year.

Tala branches out from London with Edinburgh opening

The activewear brand’s third UK site opens in the St James Quarter, showcasing its full product range.

Debenhams reveals earnings jump as turnaround gathers pace

The group, which also owns Boohoo and PrettyLittleThing, returned to profit over the past six months.

Farming evidence pack: a high-level overview of the UK agricultural industry

Key statistics on industry structure, farm economics and accounts, and environmental challenges.

Rural campaigners urge Andy Burnham to deliver ‘rural reset’

Campaigners put farm inheritance tax and wider rural policy at the centre of their appeal to the Prime Minister.

Travel and mobility considerations: situation in the Middle East

Fragomen writes: regional tensions have affected parts of Saudi Arabia and key transport routes, but immigration and entry processes across the region have not seen broader disruption. Air travel to selected destinations remains affected and short-notice changes are possible.

Landlords could face a Capital Gains Tax shock in the Budget

Mohamed Ajami, Real Estate Investor, Market Analyst & Strategy Advisor, writes on why Capital Gains Tax being brought closer into line with income tax is the one tax risk landlords should be watching in this Budget.

Winter programmes in Oxford — low season, lower winter prices

Oxford International Study Centre writes: programmes run December to March, starting every Monday, minimum one week. Low season discounts of up to 50% on group General English programmes; prices from £260 per week with seasonal reductions of up to 30% before the end of March; instalment payments on courses of 12 weeks or more; enhanced winter group commission; scholarships and bursaries; free leader places including accommodation. Accommodation in the Residence or with Oxford families. Contact international@oxintstudycentre.com for a quotation.

Featured  ·  21 September – 4 October 2026  ·  London

Live Oman — Future Stores, Oxford Street

The Arab-British Chamber of Commerce is delighted to support Live Oman, taking place at Future Stores on Oxford Street from 21 September to 4 October 2026. Presented by the Sultanate of Oman, this 14-day activation brings Oman’s latest residential developments and the developers behind them to London. Visitors can explore masterplans at scale and engage directly with developers on property ownership, residency and financing opportunities.

The showcase brings together a strong line-up of developers and real estate companies, including Talaat Moustafa Group, Muscat Bay, Adanté Realty, Al Abrar Real Estate, Al Nama Real Estate and Tathmeer Properties, presenting a range of residential and investment opportunities across Oman.

With 100% freehold ownership available in designated investment zones and residency opportunities linked to qualifying property investment, Oman is increasingly attracting international investors and families. Developments on show include Sultan Haitham City, Oman’s first smart city, alongside a range of coastal and mountain communities across Greater Muscat.

For businesses and individuals with interests in real estate, investment and international relocation, Live Oman offers first-hand insight into Oman’s expanding residential market.

New tenders issued by the Bahrain Tender Board

This week’s tender notices are published on the Bahrain Tender Board portal.

New tenders listed by the Ministry of Communications & IT

Current opportunities are published on the Egyptian Ministry of Communications and Information Technology tenders page.

Spare parts for digital meteorological observation equipment — National Centre of Meteorology

The National Centre of Meteorology has issued a tender for the supply of spare parts for digital meteorological observation equipment. Technical specifications are available from the Centre.

Latest tenders from the National Oil Corporation (NOC)

Current opportunities across the Libyan oil and gas sector are listed on the NOC tenders portal.

Latest tenders from the Oman Tender Board

New tender announcements are listed on the Oman Tender Board e-tendering platform.

New tenders listed on the UAE Tender Gate

Fresh tender announcements are published on the UAE Business Gate tenders listing.