Economy

Recently released data from the National Bureau of Statistics has confirmed our view that consumer price inflation in the United Arab Emirates would remain weak through 2011, despite... 2011-09-20

Oman's economy expanded by 3.6% in real terms over the first half of this year, according to figures announced by the finance ministry. The figure compares with a real GDP growth rate... 2011-08-25

Our budget balance forecasts for Saudi Arabia have changed markedly since our last fiscal policy analysis, and we now project a fiscal surplus of 2.2% of GDP in 2011, rather than a... 2011-08-25

Despite increased uncertainty across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) since the start of 2011, very little has changed in Qatar's fundamental economic outlook over the past few... 2011-08-24

Bahrain's budget will fall further into deficit throughout 2012, as the government's large-scale stimulus programme results in an aggressive ramp up in current spending. We project... 2011-08-24

Higher oil output and elevated international energy prices will lift the current account, while strong foreign direct investment interest will ensure the financial account remains stable.... 2011-08-23

Reports emerged in mid-August that Credit Agricole was planning on moving its regional headquarters from Manama to Dubai in light of the outbreak of public unrest in Bahrain. This... 2011-08-23

Following two consecutive years in deficit, the United Arab Emirates' consolidated fiscal budget is projected to swing back into surplus in 2011 and 2012, driven primarily by an increase... 2011-08-16

Inflation in Oman looks set to remain steady over the coming months. According to the Central Bank of Oman's latest CPI figures, year-on-year inflation fell to 3.2% in March, down from... 2011-08-12

The boost in disposable incomes from additional bonuses and the government's ambitious spending plans on one hand, will offset the prospects of strengthening wheat and grain supply... 2011-07-13