The Middle East Economy

COMPANY: Founded in 1978, and headquartered in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Al Rajhi Bank is the largest provider of Islamic banking products in the Arab world. The bank operates through a network of 528 branches and employs 10,603 staff across the Kingdom and overseas. The bank’s operations are largely...

COMPANY: Dar Al Arkan (DAAR) is the largest listed real estate developer in Saudi Arabia. Land sale has been the company’s major source of revenue in recent years, though it is working towards diversification by increasing its recurring income stream. The company’s land bank spans Riyadh, Medina,...

As the largest and most liquid bourse in the MENA region, the Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul) accounts for around 50% of the GCC equity market, and yet it is one of the most difficult to access for foreign investors (although this is set to change when the market opens up in 2015). Gaining exposure to the nation’s listed firms, many of which...

NATIONAL CHARACTER: Emiratis are known for their warm hospitality, a feature that is embedded in traditional culture, as well as modern business practice. They also take pride in their rich heritage.

Located in the west of the emirate, Al Gharbia has long been an important pillar of Abu Dhabi’s economy. In the coming years, it is set for substantial investment as the government looks to rejuvenate the region and ensure that local talent is retained and plays an integral role in development. As such, over the next two decades, a host of...

Located 160 km to the east of Abu Dhabi City, in the centre of a large oasis that has been inhabited for thousands of years, the “garden city” of Al Ain is known for its long history and traditional character. Unlike the gleaming towers of the capital, Al Ain is made up mostly of low-rise buildings in a traditional Arab style. The birthplace of...