Featured by OBG
Syria’s banking sector entered 2026 with a clearer legal path to global reintegration and recovery, although liquidity, capital quality and depositor confidence have yet to return to levels needed for growth. Syria’s capital markets are showing signs of momentum as the country works to rebuild its economy and re-engage with regional and global investors. Trading value on the Damascus Securities Exchange surged to over $70m in 2024, while market capitalisation rose to $2bn by the end of 2025, pointing to rising equity valuations. The country is gradually rebuilding its energy sector as it seeks to position its oil and gas industry as an essential source for post-war reconstruction...
Sharjah has one of the most diversified economies in the UAE, with a strong foundation in industry and manufacturing. Approximately 95.8% of its economic activity was derived from non-oil sectors in 2019, positioning the emirate to absorb much of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
With one of the biggest consumer markets in the region and robust fundamentals, Egypt is well placed to attract international investment and emerge from this difficult period in a strong position. Although the Covid-19 pandemic has caused considerable disruption, the government’s ongoing reform efforts have helped to mitigate the worst effects of the crisis.
The economic downturn resulting from lower global commodity prices and the completion of the PNG LNG project means the future of Papua New Guinea must be navigated with care. The country possesses plentiful natural resources, which, given effective management, could provide new revenue to spur diversification, as well as sustainable and equitable growth in all provinces.
Abu Dhabi is home to the world’s sixth-largest proven oil reserves and is working to achieve self-sufficiency in natural gas. It has been successfully pursuing diversification, particularly in terms of manufacturing, banking and ICT. While the global Covid-19 pandemic and decline in international oil prices poses challenges for the emirate, the fundamentals underpinning its economy remain strong.
Indonesia is the world’s 16th-largest economy and presents an enticing opportunity for investors, with ongoing reform efforts and attractive demographics. Meanwhile, a booming start-up ecosystem signals the country’s rising consumer power and regional influence. While headwinds are expected to follow Covid-19, Indonesia’s strong foundations will help maintain momentum in the medium to long term.
