The Middle East

Industrial activity is on the rise in Abu Dhabi as the emirate’s drive towards sustainable economic diversification under Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 gathers pace. The recently opened Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi is likely to be a key engine of growth for the emirate, while a recent multi-billion dollar merger between the UAE’s two aluminium manufacturers is also set to bolster plans for industrial expansion.

Sound fiscal management and healthy reserves have set Saudi Arabia on track for an upgrade of its key ratings, improving the Kingdom’s investment and growth prospects.

Limited uptake of new technology has had an impact on economic development in Kuwait, according to a recent report.

New incentives for property buyers could stimulate activity in the residential sector of Bahrain’s real estate market, a segment that is beginning to see signs of limited recovery.

Turkey is planning to polish its credentials as an international transportation hub by building one of the world’s largest airports in Istanbul, a facility that is intended to serve the growing travel market and also cater to transit traffic, though it will face stiff competition from established airports in the Middle East and Europe.

New investments in Oman’s agro-industries will not only help bolster the Sultanate’s food security and ease reliance on imports, but also have the capacity to provide increased business opportunities in food processing and support services.