The Middle East

Regulations enforcing higher capital standards in the UAE’s overcrowded insurance market have reduced the amount of insurance brokers, while slower growth in commercial business means the sector is looking to opportunities in the retail segment.

Over the past two years Abu Dhabi’s economy has demonstrated considerable resilience and stability in the face of the global economic downturn, leaving it well placed for continued growth.

Qatar’s economy may be in the midst of expansion, with oil and gas income nearing an all-time high and GDP tipped to expand by up to 19%, but the country’s planners are looking to a far-off future where hydrocarbons play a less significant role in the economy, and their plans for diversification are based on education.

A rapidly growing population and an ongoing push to modernise and improve medical services mean investment opportunities in Abu Dhabi’s health care sector are on the rise.

Abu Dhabi's real estate sector is moving away from a situation of limited supply and high rental prices to one of improving quality and lower costs, which over time could tempt some commuters living in Dubai toward the capital.

Sharjah is moving to strengthen the foundations needed for industrial expansion, building on existing infrastructure and working to attract further investment to its manufacturing sector, both at the direct production level and for supporting services.