Asia Briefing’s Middle East Focused Regulatory and Operational Business Updates

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January 01, 2026

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Weekly business and foreign investment news roundup in Asia

by Asia Briefing and Dezan Shira & Associates.

MIDDLE EAST EDITION

GCC Economies Outlook for 2026: Growth Projections and Key Drivers

GCC economies are expected to see stronger growth in 2026, with international institutions projecting an expansion of approximately 4.4–4.5 percent.

Saudi Arabia Cuts Banking and Payment Fees Under New Guide

Saudi Arabia new Fees Guide introduces lower and capped charges across banking and payment services, strengthening consumer protection, financial inclusion, and digital adoption under Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s 2026 Budget: Implications for Construction and Infrastructure Sector

Saudi Arabia’s 2026 budget underscores the government’s continued reliance on infrastructure-led development to drive economic diversification and non-oil growth under Vision 2030.

Four New UAE's Visit Visas in 2025: All You Need to Know

The UAE’s 2025 visit visa reforms introduce purpose-specific categories that more clearly link permitted activities with visa type and sponsor accountability.

Why UAE Is Becoming a Strategic Hub for Canada Investment Funds

Canada–UAE investment ties are deepening, driven by new trade negotiations, bilateral capital flows, and the UAE's role as a strategic investment hub.

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COMPLIMENTARY BUSINESS RESOURCES:

An Introduction to Doing Business in China 2026

This 2026 edition of An Introduction to Doing Business in China provides practical guidance to help investors and executives navigate China’s evolving business environment with confidence.

An Introduction to Doing Business in the ASEAN 2026

This publication is designed to introduce the fundamentals of investing in all 11 ASEAN countries and includes a guide to corporate establishment, tax advisory, and bookkeeping, in addition to HR and payroll, double tax agreements, and audit and compliance.

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