Hydrocarbons are not the only underground resource to yield billions of dollars of profit in Saudi Arabia. The mining of metallic ores, phosphates, bauxite and construction materials is an area of growth that the government hopes will become the third pillar of the economy, after oil and petrochemicals. Indeed, Saudi Arabia encompasses geologically diverse areas that contain a wealth of resources...
The Middle East Energy
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Bolstered by burgeoning cement and ceramics industries that draw on the natural resources of the Hajar Mountains, Ras Al Khaimah has one of the GCC’s more diversified economies. Continued investment in infrastructure is enabling further economic growth and encouraging foreign investment.
Hydrocarbons wealth has been the central pillar of Kuwait’s economy for nearly a century, and the nation’s proven oil reserves of around 101bn barrels underwrite its future economic wellbeing. However, the supply of non-associated natural gas, which the country discovered in 2006, has fallen behind demand, as domestic electricity generation infrastructure struggles to keep pace. Still, Kuwait has...
Oil production retains its key role in the economy, however plans are under way to encourage diversification away from hydrocarbons towards an economy that is more knowledge based. The political climate has been characterised of late by a number of disputes, often resulting in either the resignation of the government or the dissolution of parliament, which has contributed to the slow progress of some projects.
The past several years have seen significant changes in Jordan. The state is pushing ahead with structural reforms that should provide a sound base for future development, as the economy shows signs of a brisk recovery from the difficult years it has faced in the wake of the global financial crisis.
The kingdom is expected to reduce its reliance on energy imports by tapping into domestic oil shale reserves and promoting renewable energy development. The construction of a nuclear power plant and increased use of solar power promise to further help diversify electricity generation in coming years. In addition, discussions are under way to liberalise fuel distribution by removing the set price...