The online version of the July 2018 issue of MEED Business Review is now available online.

Our latest edition explores issues related to power privatisation, with a leading piece on the unprecedented transformation under way in the Gulf's power sector as governments seek to privatise utilities. The key trends and challenges in the private developer market are examined by contributing writer Rajit Nanda, chief investment officer at Acwa Power with responsibility for its global growth.

In this month’s exclusive Big Interview, Khalid al-Rumaihi, CEO of Bahrain Economic Development Board, explains why the kingdom has embarked on a journey to establish itself as the data hub for the region, providing data services ranging from data storage through to software and data security.

The Market Focus section takes an in-depth look at Iraq, where the return of stability is heralding a new era of growth. This special report examines the opportunity Iraq now has to ultimately deliver on its pipeline of projects across the oil and gas, power, transport and construction sectors.

Our industry report meanwhile looks at the region's banking sector, where challenging conditions look set to preclude a recovery.

MEED Business Review also turns the spotlight on Chinese contractors, with a special feature on the growing influence of China's power plant builders.

Contributors to the July issue include Michael Camburn and Bruce Hamilton from Deloitte – who write on the lessons learned from the UAE and Saudi Arabia's roll-out of VAT – and Niall O’Toole and Matthew Heywood from Clyde & Co on the UAE's surprise announcement regarding the future of the 51 per cent local ownership requirement.

Last but not least, the Business Outlook pages provide an overview of the contracts and deals in the Middle East and North Africa’s finance, oil and gas, construction, and power and water sectors.

We hope you enjoy the July issue of MEED Business Review.