Ajman has emerged as a strategic centre for non-oil economic growth, leveraging its free zones, infrastructure investments and cultural heritage. The emirate’s GDP reached Dh36bn ($9.8bn) in 2023, with key contributions from manufacturing, construction and trade. Ajman Vision 2030 outlines a roadmap for sustainable, inclusive development, prioritising smart governance, environmental protection,
Bahrain has seen its economy expand through diversification efforts, with a focus on finance, industry and technology. Projects in infrastructure, digital transformation and tourism aim to drive growth and attract foreign investment. The kingdom is committed to sustainability, targeting a 30% reduction in carbon emissions by 2035. The financial sector is a key contributor with innovation in financ
Saudi Arabia, the region’s largest economy, is progressing towards diversification under Vision 2030. The digital economy is a standout performer, contributing 14% of GDP, while government-led giga-projects open long-term opportunities across various sectors. Despite a dip in oil activities that reduced the current account surplus to 3.2% in 2023, tourism income surged by 38%, boosting the servi
Interview:Marwan Kraidy In what ways is higher education adapting media programmes to address evolving trends? MARWAN KRAIDY: Liberal arts higher education institutions focus on enduring skills, such as writing and critical thinking, which remain relevant regardless of industry changes. We are quick to adapt to industry developments. However, we recognise that we can never be fast enough.…
Interview:Jaber Al Ansari How has the outdoor advertising landscape evolved in recent years and what emerging trends do you foresee shaping its future? JABER AL ANSARI: Qatar’s outdoor advertising scene has undergone a significant transformation, propelled by technological advancement, economic shifts and evolving consumer preferences. Key trends, including digital transformation, interactive…
With Qatar’s increased global prominence following its hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, domestic media companies are continuing to expand their international footprint. In the past, these entities have spearheaded the acquisition of renowned international media brands. Notably, Al Jazeera Media Network, a pioneering Qatari media outlet and the first independent news channel in the Arab world,…
As a pioneer in media investment, Qatar has emerged as a regional leader in the media and entertainment segments. Since the inception of its first mass media outlets – both radio and TV – in the late 1960s and early 1970s, the country has transformed into a major regional and global media centre, with a reach of 430m households by its major networks worldwide. The establishment of Media City Qatar…
Since the inception of its first mass media outlets – both radio and TV – in the late 1960s and early 1970s, Qatar has transformed into a major regional and global media centre, with a reach of 430m households by its major networks worldwide. However, the industry faced challenges following the 2017 trade blockade imposed by some Arab neighbours, which resulted in competing narratives on regional…
While known primarily for its vast gas reserves prior to 2010, Qatar’s global profile received a major boost that year when it was chosen to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup, leading to a significant increase in infrastructure development throughout the country. Qatar is now leveraging its natural resources to become a knowledge-based, diversified economy, and it is looking to attract greater foreig
Sharjah has emerged as a diverse economic powerhouse, with nearly 96% of its economic output driven by non-oil sectors. As host to six free zones and featuring a population of 1.8m, the emirate is prioritising economic diversification and cultural richness. Robust growth is seen across sectors like manufacturing, construction and real estate, supported by initiatives like Sharjah Sustainable City.
