Reaching this milestone is testament to the service that MEED has provided for six decades and I would like to express my warmest congratulations to all of the editors, staff and many dedicated journalists who have contributed to MEED’s success.

My relationship with MEED dates back to the very earliest days of its existence, when, as a young Emirati banker in London, I was one of a small band of volunteers who would meet every week at the office of MEED founder Elizabeth Collard to put the Middle East Economic Digest into envelopes to be posted to subscribers.

Little did we know then that, 60 years later, MEED would be established as one of the world’s most trusted and respected sources of information about the Middle East.

In 1957, the Middle East was at the dawn of a new era and it was exciting to be able to come together with likeminded individuals, each of whom believed in the potential of the region and wanted to contribute to its development. 

MEED’s enduring success reflects the commitment and dedication of its staff over the years and also its ability to change to reflect the needs of its audience.   

The Middle East today stands at another key point in its history, empowered by years of strategic investment in its people and infrastructure, but also facing new challenges.

The region is preparing to embrace the end of the oil era and is focused on meeting the expectations of its young people in an increasingly globalised world.

The Gulf states are now major players on the world stage, and as China revives the concept of the Silk Road linking East and West, our region’s place in the world is growing ever more important.

For the past 60 years, MEED has recorded the changes that have shaped the region, and provided expert insight to help people understand their significance.

I wish MEED continued success in the years ahead as the region continues its remarkable journey.