Middle East M&A activity moderated in 2026, but investors continued to focus on strategic sectors including technology, AI, infrastructure and energy. This analysis explores how UAE and Saudi Arabia remain central investment hubs and why quality, innovation and long-term growth are shaping the next phase of regional dealmaking.
Extreme summer heat is becoming one of the biggest health risks for international travellers. Dr Ryan Copeland, Regional Medical Director at International SOS, explains how travellers can prevent dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke through proper planning, hydration, climate awareness and smart travel decisions. Learn practical advice for staying safe during heatwaves while travelling across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and beyond.
Standard Chartered forecasts accelerated UAE business activity in Q3 2026, driven by resilient non-oil economic growth, stronger domestic consumption, rising investment, and improving regional trade. The bank’s latest analysis highlights the UAE’s robust economic fundamentals, sustained PMI expansion, recovering oil exports, and continued diversification efforts that position the country for stronger growth despite recent regional challenges.
The 2026 Allianz Trade Global Survey shows that despite ongoing conflict in the Middle East, global exporters remain resilient, with 75% still expecting positive export growth. However, geopolitical tensions are reshaping risk perceptions, increasing non-payment risks, and extending payment cycles. While companies continue to pursue diversification, reshoring, and supply-chain adaptation, confidence levels vary significantly across markets, with the UAE experiencing a sharp shift from high optimism to increased financial and operational uncertainty.
UAE leads the MENA region in ESG integration, according to Cicero & Bernay’s MENA ESG Report 2025. The study reveals that 60% of UAE companies address all three ESG pillars—environmental, social, and governance—equally, reflecting strong alignment with national sustainability goals such as UAE Net Zero 2050 and We the UAE 2031 Vision. The report highlights that 71% of UAE firms engage employees in ESG initiatives and 67% support volunteering programmes, showing a clear shift from compliance to measurable impact. With 74% of executives linking ESG to brand value, ESG has evolved into a driver of competitiveness and corporate identity across the Middle East and North Africa. Cicero & Bernay’s fifth annual report provides key insights into regional ESG trends, communication challenges, and strategic opportunities for businesses pursuing long-term sustainability and value creation.
Discover how Desert Group is presenting sustainable landscaping and green infrastructure innovations at Myplant & Garden ME 2025 in Dubai, the Middle East’s leading horticulture and garden exhibition.
InterContinental Abu Dhabi has been shortlisted in three categories at the Hotelier Middle East Awards 2025—Hotel Team of the Year (High-End & Luxury), F&B Manager of the Year, and IT Person of the Year—recognising its excellence in hospitality, operational performance, and team culture.
Chery Group will launch its lifestyle automotive brand iCAUR in Dubai on August 1. The event will unveil new models tailored for the Middle East and announce strategic partnerships, reinforcing Chery’s regional expansion.
The Middle East is witnessing a surge in luxury real estate projects that fuse cutting-edge design with sustainability and community-centric living. Leading this wave are two standout developments: Symbolic Zen Residences by Symbolic Developments in Dubai’s Al Furjan and Riviera Heights by MAG Group Holding in Jordan’s Marsa Zayed. Both projects exemplify the region’s growing focus on mindful living, green development, and elevated lifestyles.
