The Middle East Economy

The Economic Development Board (EDB), the kingdom’s investment agency, reported in February 2013 that one of the most important tasks for the economy is to develop more labour-intensive industries. While it has a relatively diversified economy, Bahrain still relies heavily on its hydrocarbons sector, which does not provide significant employment...

The rapidly expanding population presents Bahrain with a number of challenges, including the need to provide more housing, transport infrastructure, utilities, educational opportunities, health care and food over the coming years. The kingdom will not have to meet these needs alone, however, as several of its neighbours in the GCC are providing...

The effectiveness of Bahrain’s efforts to develop and encourage the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is evidenced by the high percentage of SMEs operating in the local economy. Indeed, according to the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), SMEs represent roughly 98% of companies in the kingdom. The UN Industrial...

Boosting economic integration among the Gulf states has been a key component of the GCC since the organisation was established in late May 1981. Indeed, while the six countries that make up the GCC – namely Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE – have implemented joint projects in a wide variety of sectors already, economic...

In 2012 Britain welcomed the world. We had the extraordinary success of the Olympics and the pageant and tradition of the Diamond Jubilee. From heads of state and business leaders to athletes and spectators, Britain showed everyone what we can do best.