Economy

Syria's economic recovery

HTS must reject Assad-era neoliberalism

Syrians are facing immense economic challenges—an unstable currency, shortages and a soaring cost of living—while the transitional government doubles down on Assad's neoliberal policies. True recovery demands a new approach.
Women in Syria

Crafting independence

In Syria, women are reclaiming their independence through creative initiatives, from traditional crafts to community workshops. Four stories of perseverance and hope.
Trump and the Gulf States

Skeptical optimism in the Gulf

Saudi Arabia and the Emirates hope to reap economic benefits from the Trump presidency. But the Gulf has learned that Washington cannot be relied upon. Meanwhile, the Saudis could push Trump to take a tougher stance towards Israel.
Syrians in Lebanon

Not safe to stay, not safe to go home

Desperate Syrians are weighing up whether to stay in an increasingly hostile Lebanon or risk a precarious existence in areas held by the Syrian opposition. The return journey is deadly and conditions in Syria are tough
Lebanon celebrates art amid crisis

Lebanon has suffered economic turmoil for years and its arts and culture sector hasn't been spared. The "We Design Beirut" expo aims to revive the scene and throw a lifeline to artisans
USA and Saudi Arabia

Nuclear deal likely to prompt a Middle East arms race?

One part of a predicted, closer U.S.-Saudi relationship is particularly controversial. Experts fear Saudi Arabia may use a civilian nuclear energy programme, supported by the U.S., to develop their own atomic bombs
Saudi Arabia

Women drive the Kingdom's thriving startup scene

A flourishing entrepreneurial scene is transforming the Saudi business world. Startups contribute to the nation's branding efforts and aim to tackle unemployment, as the Gulf state aims to move away from its dependence on oil
German-Turkish relations

Towards a modern policy on Turkey

Political and diplomatic relations between Germany and Turkey are marked by dissent, but the numerous flashpoints in the Middle East are now bringing the two countries closer together. The German President's deft balancing act on his trip to Turkey points the way toward a pragmatic policy on Turkey
Political transition wishful thinking in Libya?

"Dangerous status quo" – UN Special Envoy resigns

After "stubborn resistance" by Libya's major political stakeholders, Abdoulaye Bathily, the UN special envoy for Libya, has resigned. Analysts say his replacement will need to disrupt the "dangerous" status quo
Medical tourism trend

Turkey's plastic surgery boom

Ever more people are visiting Turkey from abroad for nose jobs, hair transplants and similar procedures. Prices are low, but what are the risks?
After the local elections in Turkey

An end to AKP rule?

Last week's local election results in Turkey are a setback for the ruling AKP party and President Erdogan – but do they also herald an end to the party's uncontested power?
Desert X AlUla 2024

"The desert is demanding new ways of seeing"

Over the past three years, there has been a shift in perception around the Saudi Arabian art scene, and at this year's DesertX, artists benefitted from freer expression