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UAE envoy on the trends reshaping philanthropy

A massive wealth transfer, data-driven giving, and new technologies are driving the future of philanthropy.
Badr Jafar, CEO of Crescent Enterprises, and UAE business and philanthropy envoy.Badr Jafar. World Economic Forum/Flickr.

Analysis: This Israeli investor can’t wait for a Saudi-Israel peace deal

Collaboration between Saudi and Israeli businesses will have benefits that could reshape the region.

Israel’s missile defense maker proposes system for US shield

Israel Aerospace Industries’ CEO said a battle-tested system can be part of the US’ missile defense strategy, and may be sold to the UAE and other Gulf states in the future.
Arrow-2 missile interceptor and Arrow-3 anti ballistic missile taking down a missileCourtesy of Israel Aerospace Industries

Dubai studying ‘railbus’ system in effort to improve public transport

The hybrid mode of transport is already in use in parts of Asia and Europe, but it may take years before it’s available in Dubai.
A railbus in Dubai.Mohammed Sergie/Semafor

New paper raises questions over Saudi foreign direct investment data

A new paper points to major discrepancies in the quarterly and annual FDI data compiled by two different Saudi government bodies.
A view from inside of the green line of Riyadh Metro, as it approaches the King Abdullah Financial District Metro Station in Riyadh.Hamad I Mohammed/Reuters

Analysis: Riyadh’s huge balancing act begins to pay off

By hosting critical negotiations, Saudi Arabia is cementing itself as a trusted mediator on the world stage.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio meets with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Saudi National Security Advisor Mosaad bin Mohammad Al-Aiban, US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Russian President Vladimir Putin’s foreign policy advisor Yuri Ushakov, at Diriyah Palace, in Riyadh.Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters

Battle for world’s largest blue cut diamond ends in stalemate

Qatari Sheikh Hamad Abdullah Al-Thani had moved to enforce the sale of the $10 million diamond, but a London High Court has ruled against it, quashing the royal’s hopes of acquiring the gem.

US consumer boycotts over Israel hit profits at Gulf fast food outlets

The Gulf’s biggest operator of American fast food restaurants took a hit in 2024, as did rivals like McDonald’s, but pressure may be easing.

Abu Dhabi energy company ADNOC inks $7B+ gas deal with India

The producer signed a 14-year deal with Indian Oil Corp. for up to 1.2 million tons annually to help meet growing gas demand in India.

Gecko Robotics plans to double UAE footprint

CEO Jake Loosararian said the US company will have up to 50 employees and robots in the UAE as it prepares to raise capital and pursue acquisitions.

Analysis: Riyadh emerges as power broker in Trump’s Middle East

The kingdom cements its role as others struggle to absorb Washington’s diplomatic salvos.

Russia and Ukraine trade assaults as peace talks loom

Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other top White House advisers will travel to the Gulf for talks this week.

Saudi Arabia and the UAE vie to become Ukraine peace summit destinations

The two Gulf countries are aiming to position themselves as mediators as US President Donald Trump pushes for a resolution to end the conflict.

Musk’s Boring Company plans to build tunnel system in Dubai

The tunnel would be similar to an existing one in Las Vegas, part of the Emirati city’s efforts to ease traffic congestion.

Six Flags to operate two major amusement parks in Riyadh

The parks will be part of the $9.8 billion Qiddiya City, one of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 giga-projects, aimed to boost tourism and diversify the economy.

Analysis: Trump’s diplomatic blitzkrieg leaves Arab States reeling

Trump’s rapid-fire approach to foreign policy has left Washington’s Arab allies scrambling to respond.

UAE carrier Emirates eyes growth despite jet delivery delays

The airline is one of Dubai’s largest employers and a key pillar of the emirate’s economic growth plan.

Saudi invests in basketball tournament to challenge NBA

Basketball is the latest target of the sports investment spree from the kingdom, which has already made bets on football, golf, and boxing.