Asia-Pacific real assets manager ESR has announced an expansion into the Middle East, targeting a $10 billion development pipeline in logistics and digital infrastructure. The initiative initially targets the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia to develop scalable warehouses and data centres. ESR is currently negotiating with regional strategic partners and securing land positions.
Historically high freight yields are spurring container lines to launch dedicated services between India and Middle East ports, with UAE gateways such as Khor Fakkan seeing increased traffic. Danish carrier Maersk has deployed a new shuttle between India's Nhava Sheva and Khor Fakkan, while Chinese line CULines is planning an Asia-Middle East service. Ongoing overland cross-border transport bottlenecks and port congestion continue to elevate regional spot rates and trigger fresh carrier surcharges.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has updated its Bahrain travel guidance, noting ongoing regional volatility and potential travel disruptions. British nationals are advised to prepare for possible airspace closures and flight cancellations.
A research paper from the Middle East Council on Global Affairs examines expanding economic and strategic relations between GCC states and Central Asia. The study highlights the Gulf's capacity to deploy capital and expertise across energy, critical minerals, and logistics alongside China's regional infrastructure footprint. It recommends strategic investment coordination among the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.
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