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With the first phase of the Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) projected for completion in the fourth quarter of 2012, Abu Dhabi’s manufacturing base looks set to expand significantly over the next few years. Authorities from Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC), the state-owned entity that is developing KIZAD and other manufacturing zones and ports in the emirate, are confident that KIZAD’s low-cost business environment and links to transportation infrastructure will help ensure its success.

The government is looking to tap the bond market to make up its budgetary shortfall for this year and launch more debt offers to fund its ambitious infrastructure programme. Pricing could be an issue, however, with concerns that uncertainty over the European financial crisis could cause ripples in Asian economies and push up borrowing costs.

The aviation industry appears set to face increasing challenges over the next six months as airlines face lower than expected profits as a result of high fuel costs. However, with Dubai continuing to expand its airport capacity, the emirate is looking to position itself to take advantage of growth markets in South-east Asia.

Unexpected fluctuations in cashmere prices in 2012 have dampened optimism in Mongolia’s textiles sector, despite the introduction of incentives from the government aimed at streamlining the industry. However, industry players say a planned commodities exchange will resolve the issue.

The real estate sector is set for a boost after new legislation allowing banks to offer mortgage products to home buyers was given final approval, a move that should encourage many young Saudis to shift from renting to ownership. It may take time, however, for both banks and customers to acclimatise themselves to the conditions of the Kingdom’s new property market.

La compagnie aérienne publique marocaine est en pleine phase de reprise après une période difficile due au ralentissement économique mondial, et les politiques d’expansion continuent dans un certain nombre d’aéroports du pays. Dans ce contexte, l’augmentation récente des frais de manutention commence à avoir un impact sur la croissance des compagnies aériennes low cost (à bas coût) et leur développement futur au Maroc.