Middle East

Industry News

China’s Sepco Wins EPC Contract for Saudi Al Khushaybi Energy Storage Project

Chinese state-owned contractor Shandong Electric Power Construction Corporation has secured an EPC contract for the Al Khushaybi battery energy storage project in Saudi Arabia. The facility features a planned capacity of 500 MW/2,000 MWh as part of the Kingdom's utility-scale storage program. French energy firm Engie and Saudi-based Haji Abdullah Alireza & Co. are developing the project, with Saudi Power Procurement Company as off-taker.

Industry News

Omani Sultan’s State Visit to China Focuses on Trade and GCC FTA

Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman has departed on an official state visit to China following an invitation from Chinese President Xi Jinping. The bilateral agenda focuses on expanding investment in energy, logistics, and manufacturing after bilateral trade exceeded $25 billion in 2025. Discussions also aim to accelerate negotiations on the China-GCC comprehensive free trade agreement.

China–UAE News

Emirates Shipping Line to Launch China-Red Sea Container Service

Dubai-headquartered Emirates Shipping Line has announced plans to launch its China Red Sea Connector service in November 2026. The route will connect three major Chinese commercial ports directly with key Red Sea destination ports. The service offers fixed departures and dedicated port calls to support growing cargo demand between China and the Middle East.

Policy & Legal Updates

Oman and China Discuss Expanding Investment Across Gulf Economic and Free Zones

Omani authorities and Chinese delegates met on October 31 to explore expanding bilateral trade and industrial investments in Gulf economic and free zones. Discussions emphasized regulatory incentives, port logistics, and links between Gulf businesses and China's Hainan Province. Both delegations also confirmed intentions to develop coordinated frameworks for foreign direct investment.