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Strengthening ties between Asia and the Middle East

Economic ties between Asia and the Middle East are expanding beyond energy into trade, investment, infrastructure and financial connectivity. Rising capital flows, government-backed investment frameworks and growing links between financial centres such as Hong Kong, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are reshaping cross-border business and investment activity between the regions.

Bahrain approves Starlink launch and what it means for business

Bahrain has approved the commercial rollout of Starlink satellite internet services, allowing nationwide deployment for businesses, government entities and offshore operations. The move strengthens digital infrastructure and provides an additional layer of connectivity resilience for companies operating in Bahrain.

Why demand for insurance is growing in the UAE

Insurance demand in the UAE is rising as residents stay longer, build assets locally and shift financial planning onshore. Growth is being driven by property ownership, business expansion and retirement planning, leading to broader use of life, health and liability cover across individuals and companies.

UAE’s R&D Tax Credit: What the New 50% Incentive Really Means for Businesses 

The UAE has introduced an R&D tax credit of up to 50% on qualifying expenditure, directly reducing corporate tax liability for eligible businesses. Unlike deductions, this incentive provides a more immediate financial benefit and signals a shift towards supporting innovation, technology development and intellectual property creation.

Dubai’s Economic Support Measures Update: A Practical Perspective Support for UAE Businesses

Dubai’s latest economic support measures introduce a three-month deferral on selected government fees to improve business liquidity and support continuity. While payments can be postponed, all compliance obligations remain unchanged, meaning businesses must continue meeting regulatory requirements while managing deferred costs.

GCC Aluminium Sector Faces Disruption As Producers Adjust Strategy

The GCC aluminium sector is facing disruption as shipping constraints through the Strait of Hormuz impact raw material flows and export routes. Producers are adjusting logistics, output and routing strategies to maintain supply, while global prices and delivery timelines react to tighter availability.

Saudi Arabia to formalise exemptions to Regional Headquarters requirement for government contracts

Saudi Arabia is introducing a formal exemption framework to its Regional Headquarters (RHQ) requirement, allowing foreign companies without an RHQ to bid for government contracts under defined conditions. While the core policy remains, this update creates a structured pathway for participation where technical or commercial factors justify it.

Establishing a Dairy Production Facility in Bahrain: Key Considerations

Arla Foods recently announced an investment of over USD 60 million to expand its dairy production facility Bahrain at the Bahrain International Investment Park (BIIP). The Bahrain facility, located within the Bahrain International Investment Park, is already the company’s largest production site outside Europe, and the expansion is designed to significantly increase production capacity, output,Continue reading “Establishing a Dairy Production Facility in Bahrain: Key Considerations”

Electronic Invoicing in the UAE

Legal Requirements, Deadlines & Practical Compliance Guidance The United Arab Emirates is moving towards mandatory electronic invoicing as part of its broader tax transparency and digital transformation strategy. This initiative is led by the Ministry of Finance in coordination with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). The reform will significantly change how businesses issue, exchange, reportContinue reading “Electronic Invoicing in the UAE”