Economics

Microsoft and partners to generate $24 billion in Saudi Arabia over next four years, says IDC study

Microsoft’s partner ecosystem will earn roughly $8 for every $1 of revenue generated by Microsoft’s cloud services

Oman’s Salalah Free Zone draws $11.95 billion in investment by June 2024

In H1 2024, the Salalah Free Zone added 13 projects in frankincense, packaging, air conditioning, and textiles

Central Bank of Egypt forecasts easing inflation amid continued maintenance of interest rates

The MPC noted that domestic real GDP growth had moderated to 2.2 percent in the first quarter of 2024

Saudi private sector employment surges to over 11.5 million workers in August 2024

The number of residents employed in the private sector stood at 9,202,580, with 8,812,758 men and 389,822 women

Saudi Arabia to cut export and import customs fees starting October 6

Changes introduced to streamline trade processes and support business operations

UAE targets $27.2 billion in tourism investments by 2031, increasing GDP contribution to $122.5 billion 

In 2023, tourism accounted for 11.7 percent of the UAE’s GDP, amounting to $59.9 billion

Oil prices surge as hurricane threatens U.S. Gulf coast amid market recovery from disappointing jobs data

Brent crude futures rose by 99 cents, or 1.39 percent, to $72.05 per barrel

Rising bank credit demand in the UAE amid positive economic outlook, says Central Bank

In Q2, demand for trade credit remained strong, with a greater appetite for lending 

Saudi Arabia cancels hotel licensing fees to boost tourism investment 

This change, effective September 4, aims to position the Kingdom as a global tourism leader

GCC banks well positioned to continue strong run in 2024: Report

The report stated that high interest rates kept profit margins at 2.7 percent, with strong bank profitability in H1

Abu Dhabi set to host AIM Congress 2025 in April

The event will address economic challenges through collaborative investment strategies