Middle East Sunday Pages Blog

The Gulf traded across oceans for centuries before oil. Why negotiating in the Gulf is how trust is built, and why opening with your final price can cost you.

Saudi National Day on 23 September is joyful, public national pride. What Western executives miss about it, from inside the Saudi Embassy celebration in London.

A Crown Prince turned back at Delhi airport to thank his driver. What that moment shows about reading a room — and what your own behaviour says in it.

Saudi Arabia is reprioritising its giga-projects, not abandoning them. A $221m Qiddiya contract shows firms where commitment is still moving.

Saudi Arabia is becoming more Saudi. What that changes for doing business in Saudi Arabia in 2026 — the rules, the people in the room, and the rising bar.

Your Middle East line hides six markets and a £774 gap. Five audit questions that show if you know your high-value Gulf customers, or just what they spend.

Emirati Women's Day 2026 runs for a month from 28 August. What it signals about women in business in the UAE — and why most Western firms miss it entirely.

Saudi, UAE and Qatari leaders communicate directly to millions, in real time. Why executive visibility in the Gulf decides trust before your first meeting happens.

The companies winning in the Gulf aren't better at sales — they have better information. How to build a Gulf intelligence system before your next meeting.