Oman's economic transformation is one of the Gulf's most compelling – and least reported – investment stories. In just five years, the sultanate has cut public debt from 68% of GDP to approximately 36%, restored investment-grade credit ratings across all three major agencies, and grown its non-hydrocarbon economy to nearly three-quarters of GDP. Anchored by Vision 2040 and the Estidamah programme,…
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On stability, competitiveness and revival in Syria’s consumer goods industry By what means have diversified fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies evolved through the conflict years and into the current recovery phase? HADI JOUD: The evolution of multi-vertical FMCG manufacturers and traders in Syria mirrors the broader trajectory of the national economy. Many of these businesses operate…
On rebuilding Syria’s trade and industrial base How would you characterise the current stage of economic recovery in Syria, particularly in trade and commodity markets? AMMAR BARDAN: Syria is clearly in a recovery phase, but it is in an early and uneven stage. We are seeing renewed commercial activity in trade and commodity markets, particularly in essential goods such as animal feed, agricultural…
On the investment climate and mobilising financing for local companies How would you characterise the current macroeconomic transition and the investment climate? ANTOUN HABIB BETINJANEH: Syria is moving from a wartime economy defined by scarcity into a transition phase where availability is improving, but demand and purchasing power remain uneven. Many goods that were difficult to source –…
On rebuilding tourism sector How would you assess the current stage of Syria’s tourism recovery? MOURHAF NAZHA: Syria’s tourism recovery is nascent but the foundations are strong, particularly considering its cultural and historical sites, opportunities for religious tourism, diverse landscapes and rich food culture. Tourism activity was largely on hold for 15 years, so Syria is naturally…
On enhancing access to higher education and integrating emerging technologies into learning How is the ministry expanding access to higher education while also bolstering academic quality? KONGRATBAY SHARIPOV: Youth comprise nearly 60% of Uzbekistan's population, presenting both a significant responsibility and a tremendous opportunity. On the one hand, it drives rapidly growing demand…
In English Oman is accelerating economic transformation by strengthening the private sector and expanding access to capital for small businesses and start-ups. In line with Oman Vision 2040, priority initiatives are helping to address funding gaps, encourage entrepreneurship and scale high-potential ventures across diverse industries. This report explores how strategic investment is…
Qatar’s economic outlook in 2026 is being shaped by a complex regional environment, with the Iran conflict serving as the most significant external shock of the year. The conflict has tested energy infrastructure, trade routes and crisis management capabilities across the Gulf, creating short-term pressures on liquefied natural gas (LNG) production and maritime logistics. At the same time, it has…
Qatar’s economic trajectory over the past two decades has been shaped by a centralised leadership model and a clear strategic commitment to diversification. Under the leadership of the Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, economic policymaking is closely coordinated across a small number of institutions, allowing the government to align fiscal policy, investment strategy, monetary management and…
