Commentary
Comment, analysis and opinion on the latest events and trends in the Middle East.
The MEED View
Unrest in Syria takes on sectarian hue
The ruling Alawi sect will ensure the unrest continues to avoid handing over power to the Sunni majority
In dire need of insolvency law in Saudi Arabia
To deal with rampant corporate defaults, the kingdom’s banks need a legislative framework that ensures restructuring is worked out quickly
GCC to focus on healthcare in 2012
Bids submitted for three hospitals worth a combined $1.7bn show resolve of regional governments
Riyadh supports heavy industry
Saudi Arabia’s decision to freeze its gas prices will support the kingdom’s industrial diversification
Costs to reflect global sentiment
Construction costs forecast to fall further this year reflecting global sentiment, says MEED Cost Indices
Oil contractors remain wary
With fears that Iraq is set for another round of sectarian strife, risks and costs in the country are spiralling
Few expect UAE market to change
Firms realise that the days when inefficiency is absorbed by double-digit economic growth are gone
Saudi liquidity to benefit borrowers
Downward pressure on pricing in the local market is likely to continue, making loans even more attractive
Slowing China resets priorities
With China’s economy forecast to slow further in 2012, petrochemicals producers will need start looking for alternative export markets
Al-Rajhi plans gather pace
The huge steel complex will make a big contribution to the kingdom’s industrial diversification
Blogs
Islam, John Locke and the future of the internet
Business leaders spoke out at the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority’s annual summit, but had little to say about the latest storm over the internet
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