Research

Industry News

WEF and Bain Report Projects AI Could Unlock $1 Trillion Across MENA

A report by the World Economic Forum and Bain & Company projects artificial intelligence could unlock over $1 trillion in economic and sustainability value across MENA by 2030. The valuation encompasses sustainable finance, public investment flows, avoided asset losses, and energy-sector gains. While 89 percent of regional sustainability leaders acknowledge AI's high potential, active implementation remains limited to between 40 and 55 percent.

Policy & Legal Updates

Think Tank Analyzes Future of GCC Dollar Pegs Amid Growing China Trade

A policy paper by the Middle East Council on Global Affairs examines the GCC currency pegs to the US dollar in light of offshore banking dynamics and increasing trade with China. The research argues that while growing commerce with China weakens the trade rationale for the dollar peg, offshore dollar bank funding keeps oil invoicing tied to the US currency. The author recommends coordinating currency policy across all six GCC states and formalizing liquidity assurances for Bahrain and Oman.

Policy & Legal Updates

ORF Middle East Examines SME Role in UAE Net-Zero 2050 Strategy

An analysis by ORF Middle East highlights that SMEs represent 94 to 95 percent of UAE businesses and generate over 60 percent of non-oil GDP. The paper argues that achieving UAE Net-Zero by 2050 requires simplified emissions reporting, lower compliance costs, and enhanced transition finance for smaller firms. Decarbonising SMEs is increasingly vital as major domestic corporations tackle Scope 3 supply-chain emissions.

Policy & Legal Updates

Dubai and Abu Dhabi Rank Among Top 10 Global Next-Generation Wealth Hubs

Dubai and Abu Dhabi have ranked among the world's top 10 locations for attracting and retaining high-net-worth individuals under 40, according to property consultancy Savills. The two UAE cities were among only four locations across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa to secure top-10 positions. Savills evaluated more than 100 destinations based on business connectivity, taxation, wealth clusters, and lifestyle factors.