Other Briefings
Saudi Arabia Iqama and Visa Rules: What Changed in Q1 2026
Saudi Arabia introduced major residency and labor reforms in Q1 2026, including a new 5-year physical Iqama (Resident ID), skill-based work permit classifications, emergency visa extensions, and expanded labor mobility rules. These changes increase digital compliance requirements, requiring HR teams and expatriate employees to closely monitor Iqama validity, profession classification, and visa status.
Oman’s Strait of Hormuz Advantage in a Time of Regional Disruption
Oman’s hydrocarbon export infrastructure outside the Strait of Hormuz gives it a relative advantage among Gulf economies facing potential shipping disruptions. However, recent incidents affecting key ports highlight that while Oman may offer greater resilience for trade and logistics, it should be viewed as a lower-risk option rather than a fully insulated safe haven.
Qatar Introduces Trusted Entity Regime Allowing Immediate Tax Treaty Benefits
Qatar has introduced a Trusted Entity regime, allowing approved taxpayers to apply reduced withholding tax rates or exemptions under double taxation treaties directly at source. The reform replaces the previous refund-based system, reducing administrative burdens and improving cash flow for companies making cross-border payments.
Saudi Arabia and Egypt Sign Visa Exemption Agreement for Official Passport Holders
Saudi Arabia and Egypt have signed a reciprocal visa exemption agreement for holders of diplomatic, special, and service passports to facilitate official travel and strengthen bilateral coordination. The move reflects broader efforts by both countries to deepen political cooperation while expanding trade and investment ties, which have continued to grow through 2025.
Saudi Arabia’s Renewable Energy Investment Surge: Implications for Businesses in the Middle East
Saudi Arabia’s US$34 billion investment in renewable energy in 2025 marks its entry into the global top ten and signals a rapid shift toward diversifying its energy mix under Vision 2030. This expansion is creating new opportunities across infrastructure, manufacturing, and energy-intensive industries, while reshaping the competitive landscape of the Middle East energy market.
Strait of Hormuz Disruption: Managing Force Majeure and Supply Chain Risks
Disruptions affecting the Strait of Hormuz are increasing pressure on global shipping routes, raising force majeure concerns and creating new challenges for energy and logistics supply chains. Businesses involved in Gulf trade should reassess contracts, insurance coverage, and contingency planning to manage force majeure risks and supply chain disruption.
UAE Launches Up to 50% R&D Tax Credit for Businesses
The UAE has officially launched Phase 1 of its Research and Development (R&D) Tax Incentives Program, introducing a non-refundable corporate tax credit of up to 50 percent on qualifying R&D expenditure capped at AED 5 million per tax period.
Oman’s Sustainable Tourism Boom: The Investment Case for Hospitality, Eco-Lodges and Heritage Sites
Oman’s sustainable tourism industry is becoming a core investment sector under Vision 2040, with growth driven by eco-tourism, heritage assets, and selective hospitality projects rather than mass-market development.
Bahrain Is Set to Introduce Corporate Income Tax: What Businesses Need to Now
Bahrain is planning the introduction of Corporate Income Tax, marking a structural shift from a tax-free to a taxable business environment, expanding obligations beyond large multinationals to the wider corporate sector.
Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund Strategy Shift 2026: Key Sectors, Risks, and Opportunities
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund is not retreating but redirecting capital toward priority sectors amid fiscal pressure and lower oil revenues. Understanding where funding is accelerating—and where it is being cut—is now critical for investors and businesses entering the Kingdom.
