Kingdom’s ambitious plans for diversification face challenge of economic reality

Negative sentiment and rebuilding economy will be biggest challenges

Boycotted by some of its neighbours, the Gulf state is spending $200bn on infrastructure and opening new trade routes. But is it sustainable?

State-owned Abu Dhabi group to build on petrochemicals as it seeks to diversify economy

Fears grow that Isfahan’s threefold rise in foreign visitors will go into reverse

Anti-corruption crackdown created a ‘better environment for business’

Economic realities threaten to weigh down the kingdom’s pivot away from oil

As economic indicators improve, US multinationals are looking with interest

A collection of authors explain why Beijing is making moves in the Middle East

Government pushes forward plans to boost private sector’s role in its oil-dependent economy

Reform plans targeting joblessness complicated by a dependence on state spending

Dependent on oil and bruised by sanctions, the Iranian economy needs new sources of jobs but some are wary of the growing role of technology companies

Can the kingdom and its reconstruction aid overcome distrust between Islamic sects? 

General-turned-president has stabilised country but critics warn of growing oppression and the rising role of the military

Price rises dominate lives of ordinary people as Sisi heads for re-election

First official overseas tour since Mohammed bin Salman was made heir apparent

Cairo to provide 1,000 sq km in Sinai region for cross-border project that will include a megacity

Crackdown saw hundreds of princes and businessmen detained at Ritz-Carlton hotel

Billionaire says he wants to leave Riyadh’s Ritz-Carlton in ‘complete vindication’

Bloated state payrolls fail to cut unemployment or provide decent public services

Promise of help for 250,000 families as marchers commemorate anniversary of revolution