Middle East

Policy & Legal Updates

Seventh Arab Competition Forum Convenes in Dubai on Digital Market Fairness

The seventh Arab Competition Forum opened in Dubai on October 28, 2026, focusing on competition policy and consumer protection in the digital economy. Co-organized by the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism and international bodies, the forum highlighted the modernization of UAE competition law. Discussions focused on managing the commercial impact of digital platforms and artificial intelligence.

Industry News

WGES Highlights $73 Billion GCC Green Debt and UAE Industrial Decarbonisation

The 12th World Green Economy Summit in Dubai reported that outstanding GCC green sukuk and bonds have reached $73 billion. GCC issuers accounted for approximately 40 percent of emerging market US-dollar ESG debt outside China during the first nine months of 2026. Multilateral experts highlighted the UAE's capital reserves and policy frameworks for advancing green hydrogen exports and heavy industry decarbonisation.

China–UAE News

HKTDC Chairman Concludes GCC Mission to Expand China-Gulf Business Corridor

Hong Kong Trade Development Council Chairman Frederick Ma concluded a high-level GCC mission in Doha, meeting regional ministers and investment leadership. Speaking at the UNCTAD World Investment Forum, Ma promoted Hong Kong as an intermediary for Chinese outward investment across the Gulf. Discussions centered on expanding private equity, trade finance, and joint ventures in logistics, technology, and manufacturing.

Industry News

Saudi Aramco Closes In on $10B Loan With International and Chinese Banks

Saudi Aramco is nearing an agreement on a $10 billion revolving credit facility backed by a syndicate including Bank of China and ICBC. The financing carries an interest margin of 60 basis points over SOFR to reinforce company liquidity. The transaction follows a series of large-scale debt raises by Gulf energy firms involving Chinese financial institutions.