UAE Today — 104 Headlines

The UAE's Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation introduced a rule requiring private sector companies to pay employee salaries on the first day of every month starting June 1, 2026. The change is part of efforts to strengthen wage protection and labour compliance across the private sector.

The UAE's midday outdoor work ban returned for its 22nd consecutive year, prohibiting outdoor work in direct sunlight from 12:30pm to 3:00pm daily. The ban runs from June 15 to September 15, 2026, covering all outdoor workers across the country.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum announced the establishment of the Federal Authority for Artificial Intelligence and Data as the unified national umbrella for managing AI and digital government. The new body will consolidate data, artificial intelligence and digital government oversight under a single structure reporting directly to the Cabinet.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum announced a target for 50 per cent of UAE government services to be operated by AI agents within two years. The announcement came alongside the creation of the Federal Authority for Artificial Intelligence and Data in June 2026.

The UAE announced a 30-day grace period allowing people unable to leave the country due to the Iran war to settle their visa status or exit without facing fines. The exemption applied to holders of visit and tourist visas, exit permits, and residents who had cancelled residency visas in preparation for departure.

A new UAE law that reduces the age of adulthood from 21 to 18 came into force, aligning the country's legal framework with international standards. The change has implications for contracts, legal responsibility, and financial independence for young residents.

The UAE government called on private sector companies employing 50 or more workers to step up efforts to meet their semi-annual Emiratisation targets, requiring a 1 per cent increase in skilled roles. Fines will be imposed from July 1 on firms that fail to meet the June 30 deadline.

The UAE's private sector workforce expanded by 2.5 per cent in the first quarter of 2026, with growth driven by an increase in skilled job categories and new company registrations. The data from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation reflected continued momentum in the labour market.

The UAE Ministry of Economy stressed the need for private joint-stock companies to hold their annual general meetings no later than June 30, 2026, for companies whose financial year ended December 31, 2025. Failure to comply risks penalties and could affect preparations for future public listings.

The UAE Ministry of Education introduced a new framework governing the preparation of examination papers for students of determination in government schools, establishing six key regulations and seven core standards. The standards aim to ensure assessments are tailored to individual learning needs while maintaining fairness and consistency.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum formally announced the creation of the UAE's new AI and data authority, which will serve as the national umbrella body for all things relating to artificial intelligence, digital transactions, and data governance. The authority was established by federal decree in June 2026.

The UAE's MoHRE confirmed that June 30 is the deadline for private sector companies to comply with Emiratisation quotas for the first half of 2026. Companies that miss the deadline will face financial penalties starting July 1, 2026.

The UAE government announced a public holiday for both public and private sector employees to mark the Hijri New Year falling on June 15, 2026. The announcement confirmed the day off across all sectors in line with the official UAE holiday calendar.

The UAE Fuel Price Committee announced June 2026 retail petrol prices, with Super 98 rising to Dh3.95 per litre and Special 95 set at Dh3.83 per litre, marking the fourth consecutive monthly increase. Diesel prices fell slightly to Dh4.33 per litre, down from Dh4.69 in May.

Gulf News analysed how a potential end to the US-Iran conflict and a drop in global oil prices below $100 per barrel could bring down UAE petrol prices after months of sharp increases. Super 98 petrol is now nearly 50 per cent higher than its February 2026 price of Dh2.45 per litre.

Analysts expect the UAE to maintain one of the world's lowest inflation rates in 2026, with the Central Bank projecting headline inflation at around 1.8 per cent. The stable rate is attributed to government price controls, a strong dirham pegged to the US dollar, and competitive retail markets.

Abu Dhabi froze rents for residential, commercial and industrial properties effective June 2, 2026, providing relief to tenants facing rising housing costs. The freeze applies until further notice and comes after Abu Dhabi average residential rents had risen 11 per cent in 2025.

A summary of new price increases taking effect in June 2026 showed UAE residents facing higher costs across fuel, Salik toll gates, and public parking. The combined impact of fuel price hikes and the introduction of 5 per cent VAT on parking and tolls added to household expenses from June 1.

Higher fuel prices in the UAE are expected to push up the cost of bread, dairy products, and cooking oil as transport costs feed into retail supply chains. Supermarket operators indicated price increases would be gradual, with most retailers absorbing costs before passing them on to consumers.

An analysis found that Dubai's headline inflation rate may ease in coming months even as many household costs remain elevated, particularly housing and utilities. The divergence between the statistical measure and lived experience reflects differing basket weightings in the official CPI calculation.

Dubai motorists faced higher costs from June 1, 2026, as petrol prices rose, Salik toll crossings became subject to 5 per cent VAT, and public parking fees increased. Cash payments at physical parking meters were also phased out on the same date.

Dubai's public parking operator Parkin introduced 5 per cent VAT across all parking services and Salik toll gate crossings from June 1, 2026. The change means that crossing four Salik gates daily now costs Dh25.20 instead of Dh24.

Dubai Silicon Oasis introduced new on-street paid parking zones from June 1, 2026, with a cashless payment system linked to Salik or SMS. The expansion of paid parking in DSO is part of a broader RTA initiative to manage congestion in growing residential and business districts.

flydubai launched direct flights between Dubai and Benghazi in June 2026, becoming the first UAE carrier to operate services to the Libyan city. The route operates three times a week from Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

Following the US-Iran ceasefire and lifting of airspace restrictions, UAE carriers Emirates, Etihad, and flydubai are preparing for a summer travel rebound after months of disrupted schedules. Airlines are rebuilding route networks and adding seats to meet pent-up demand across key destinations.

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority invited consultants to bid on a contract to study and design a proposed 55-kilometre Airport Express Line linking Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport. The line would include five stations offering remote airline check-in, baggage drop-off, and security screening facilities.

Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum launched the 'Dubai-it' initiative to convey Dubai's philosophy of rapid achievement and distinguished execution to future generations. The initiative aims to embed Dubai's culture of ambition and high performance in the next generation of leaders.

Sheikh Mohammed established the Dubai Longevity Authority, a new entity aiming to develop Dubai as the world's leading hub for regulated longevity, wellness and advanced healthcare. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, will serve as President of the DLA.

Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed reviewed a roadmap targeting the rollout of Agentic AI across 295,000 private-sector companies in Dubai over the next two years. The initiative is part of Dubai's broader strategy to embed artificial intelligence across the economy.

Dubai unveiled more than 50 new investment opportunities at Al Mamzar Beaches covering food and beverage, water sports, fitness, wellness, marine activities and entertainment. The announcement was made at an exclusive event attended by investors and business leaders from across the UAE.

Emaar Properties is preparing to unveil a Dh200 billion master-planned development in the heart of Dubai with a total built-up area exceeding 4.5 million square metres. The project is designed to accommodate nearly 150,000 residents across residential towers, villas, offices, retail, hospitality and cultural spaces.

Thousands of residents and visitors participated in the opening of the second edition of Dubai Mallathon, transforming six major shopping malls into indoor fitness destinations for the summer. The three-month programme runs at Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Mirdif City Centre, Dubai Festival City Mall, Deira City Centre and Dubai Hills Mall.

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority approved a five-year plan for 2026–2030 covering the construction of 31 pedestrian bridges and tunnels across key locations in the emirate. The infrastructure expansion is aimed at improving pedestrian safety and urban mobility across Dubai.

Dubai's tourism sector is expecting a significant boost in bookings following the UK government's decision to ease its travel warning for the UAE. Tourism businesses said the development was restoring consumer confidence and driving renewed interest from British visitors.

Edge Group and Italy's Leonardo formed a joint venture targeting approximately $4.64 billion in defence systems orders over five years. The partnership reflects Abu Dhabi's continued push to grow its domestic defence industry and deepen international collaboration.

TA'ZIZ Methanol Company achieved financial close on $2 billion in financing for the UAE's first world-scale methanol plant located in Al Ruwais Industrial City, Abu Dhabi. The plant, backed by ADNOC and partner Proman, is progressing toward a targeted completion date of 2028.

The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi is marking Dino Month in June with themed workshops, family activities and the final weeks of the March of the Triceratops exhibition. The cultural initiative is part of the museum's ongoing efforts to engage residents and visitors with immersive natural history programming.

Abu Dhabi's Hub71 tech ecosystem reported that its startups have raised more than $2.7 billion in funding and generated $1.5 billion in revenue by end of 2025, with AI firms representing 21% of all new digital ventures. Hub71's community has grown to 390 startups since its 2019 launch.

The UAE Central Bank forecasts the economy will expand 5.6 per cent in 2026, driven by non-hydrocarbon sectors including financial services, manufacturing and construction. Non-oil sectors are set to account for 78 per cent of total GDP, reflecting the success of the country's economic diversification strategy.

The UAE real estate sector recorded an all-time high in the first quarter of 2026, with total transaction values rising to AED252 billion ($68.7 billion), up 31 per cent year-on-year. The number of investment deals reached 57,744, representing a 7 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.

Total UAE banking assets rose to AED5.47 trillion ($1.49 trillion) as the country's foreign trade surpassed $1.63 trillion, underscoring the resilience of the financial system. The figures reflect the UAE's growing role as a global trade and finance hub amid a strong regulatory environment.

The UAE's non-oil PMI rose to 52.6 in May 2026, with output recording its strongest growth in three months as domestic demand remained solid. Supply chain disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz closure lengthened delivery times to the worst levels since April 2020, adding operational pressure on businesses.

Al Ansari Exchange recorded a 151 per cent surge in companies processing salaries through the Wage Protection System on June 1, when a new ministerial resolution required all private sector establishments to pay wages by the first day of each month. The unified salary cycle is expected to concentrate consumer spending sharply in the opening days of each month.

The UAE private sector faces a June 30 Emiratisation deadline requiring companies to record a 1 per cent increase in Emiratisation of skilled jobs. Businesses that fail to meet the target face escalating fines and penalties under tightened enforcement rules introduced in 2026.

The UAE has emerged as the world's most attractive destination for real estate investment, with more than half of global investors surveyed planning to increase their property market exposure in the country. Analysts attribute the ranking to strong regulatory frameworks, political stability and a diversified property offering.

Abu Dhabi-based fintech startup Mal received in-principle approval from the UAE Central Bank to establish what it describes as the world's first AI-native Islamic digital bank. The company raised $230 million in what it said was the largest fintech seed round in Middle East and Africa history.

The Dubai Gold and Commodities Exchange announced it would launch the region's first same-day physically settled spot gold product on a regulated exchange. The Gold Spot T+0 Contract marks a significant innovation in commodity trading infrastructure across the GCC.

The UAE Minister of Economy confirmed the country's economy is set to expand by more than 5 per cent in 2026, with non-oil sectors projected to grow over 5.5 per cent and represent 78 per cent of total GDP. The UAE also ranked fifth globally in the latest Global Competitiveness Report 2026 and maintained its regional leadership for the tenth consecutive year.

Digital investment platform Stake and Swiss-headquartered ACE & Company launched a strategic partnership to enhance liquidity infrastructure for UAE real estate investors. The collaboration is designed to give property investors greater flexibility in managing and exiting real estate positions.

The UAE is forecast to be the strongest economic performer in the Gulf in 2026, with ICAEW projecting GDP growth of 5.6 per cent and cementing its position as one of the region's fastest-expanding economies. Non-oil industries including tourism, trade, logistics, real estate and financial services are expected to remain the primary growth drivers.

Dubai Finance successfully concluded the Dubai Innovation and Financial Foresight Forum, gathering government leaders, industry experts and academics to discuss the future of financial management, innovation and policymaking. The forum highlighted emerging trends in public sector financial planning and digital transformation.

Standard Chartered raised its UAE GDP growth forecast to 5 per cent for 2026 and projects the country's total foreign trade to reach the $1 trillion milestone this year. The UAE also entered the world's top ten merchandise exporters for the first time, ranking ninth globally according to the World Trade Organisation.

Ras Al Khaimah Police arrested two young men aged 18 and 20 after they were caught performing dangerous driving stunts with their private vehicles on a public road. The arrests were part of ongoing traffic enforcement operations targeting reckless behaviour that endangers public safety.

UAE authorities dismantled a major drug trafficking network, arresting 23 suspects in a coordinated operation overseen by the Federal Narcotics Control Prosecution and carried out in partnership with Ras Al Khaimah Police. Large quantities of narcotics and psychotropic substances were seized before they could be distributed.

An Indian expatriate from Kerala was killed following a dispute that originated on TikTok, with Sharjah Police subsequently making multiple arrests in connection with the murder. The case highlighted growing concerns over social media-fuelled conflicts escalating to violence.

Dubai Police arrested eight suspects, including a woman who posed as a princess, after the group allegedly stole a rare luxury oud valued at Dh12 million. The arrests were made within 12 hours of the theft being reported.

Dubai's Criminal Court sentenced two individuals to six months in prison and imposed a joint fine of Dh200,000 after they threw fake banknotes around to appear wealthy and attract social media followers. The pair were also ordered to be deported following the completion of their sentences.

UAE authorities arrested 10 individuals of various nationalities for allegedly publishing misleading and fabricated footage of intercepted attacks and AI-generated clips purporting to show strikes on landmarks on social media platforms. The arrests were made under laws governing the spread of disinformation and content that could incite public alarm.

The National Centre of Meteorology forecast fair to partly cloudy skies across the UAE for June 21, with temperatures nationwide ranging between 24°C and 46°C and highs of 42°C in Abu Dhabi and 43°C in Dubai. Winds were expected to be light to moderate, with humid conditions possible by night in coastal areas.

Dense fog blanketed parts of Abu Dhabi as temperatures were forecast to climb to 47°C in some areas of the UAE. The National Centre of Meteorology issued advisories urging motorists to exercise caution and reduce speed on affected roads.

The UAE's National Centre of Meteorology stated that weather over the following ten days would be generally stable and clear to partly cloudy, with convective clouds expected over the eastern regions and a chance of fog along the coasts. Temperatures were forecast to rise or remain at high summer averages, with winds potentially reaching 40 km/h and stirring dust over open inland and western areas.

The National Centre of Meteorology warned that temperatures across the UAE were set to hit 48°C during the first week of June, driven by intense summer heat building over the Arabian Peninsula. Residents were advised to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and limit outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours.

Conjoined twins named Mercy and Goodness were successfully separated in a pioneering surgical procedure carried out at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City in Abu Dhabi, described by doctors as a major medical milestone. The complex operation involved a multidisciplinary team and marked a significant advancement in surgical capability within the UAE.

Dubai launched a new longevity action plan centred on preventive healthcare, with the establishment of the Dubai Longevity Authority to regulate and develop the emirate as a global hub for longevity medicine and advanced wellness. The initiative signals a strategic shift in the UAE's healthcare model from treatment to long-term disease prevention.

The Emirates Drug Establishment granted regulatory approval for Jascayd (nerandomilast), a new treatment for idiopathic and progressive pulmonary fibrosis, making the UAE the first country in the region and third globally after the United States and China to approve the drug. The approval is expected to offer new hope to patients suffering from this progressive and potentially fatal lung disease.

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi unveiled Aila, described as the world's first clinical AI scientist, with an initial focus on prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment support. The launch positions Abu Dhabi at the forefront of AI-driven clinical innovation in the region.

Abu Dhabi's designated Centres of Excellence have provided specialised care to more than 3,000 complex medical cases since their launch in 2023, earning international recognition for the quality and scope of their treatments. The centres cover a range of advanced medical disciplines and are a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi's healthcare strategy.

The UAE scaled up its humanitarian health assistance to African nations affected by the Ebola outbreak, with the Ministry of Health and Prevention maintaining heightened surveillance and preparedness measures at ports of entry. The UAE also confirmed its own public health situation remains stable while monitoring the international spread of the disease.

A strategic partnership between the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai and the Dubai Health Authority was announced to streamline medical visa applications and create an integrated treatment-to-recovery experience for international patients. The initiative is part of Dubai's broader drive to become a leading global destination for health tourism.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum approved the reconstitution of the board of directors of Emirates Health Services, chaired by Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh, as part of efforts to strengthen governance and leadership within the UAE's public healthcare system. The move is intended to advance the quality and reach of health services across the emirates.

The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention issued a public health update confirming the country's situation remains stable while it maintains precautionary preparedness measures focused on surveillance, early detection, airport readiness, and healthcare preparedness in response to the ongoing Ebola outbreak. Authorities stated they are continuously monitoring global developments and are prepared to respond swiftly if needed.

Al Jalila Foundation received a Dhs20 million donation from Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation to support the development of Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital in Dubai. The contribution underscores the private sector's role in advancing oncology care infrastructure in the UAE.

From The Beach Boys and Wael Kfoury to Bollywood musicals and stand-up comedy, June 2026 is filled with major live events across the UAE. RE:SET is a one-night-only experience at Dubai Opera blending music, comedy and performance into one seamless evening.

June 2026 is one of the strongest months at UAE cinemas, with a Spielberg comeback, a major DC debut, Bollywood crime sagas, and Pixar nostalgia all arriving. BTS's homecoming concert at Busan Asiad Main Stadium also broadcasts live to UAE screens on June 13.

A new generation of Emiratis in their twenties is reshaping the way the UAE experiences life, fashion, and art by integrating cultural heritage with modern global expression. Young creatives are taking the country's legacy and infusing it with energy, creativity, and global awareness.

The UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism held talks during VivaTech 2026 in Paris, exploring cooperation in tourism, aviation, and SME partnerships. Both sides discussed promoting tourist attractions to encourage greater visitor exchange and cultural understanding.

With UAE school holidays approaching, families are reconsidering traditional summer travel plans amid rising costs and shifting priorities. The trend reflects broader changes in how UAE residents approach leisure and family time during the summer season.

The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge shared its future direction for the private education sector, rooted in the UAE leadership's vision to shape future-ready generations. The four priorities include strengthening national identity, safeguarding student wellbeing, equipping students with future-ready skills, and advancing equitable and high-quality education.

Families across the UAE are invited to participate in a nationwide storytelling initiative called 'Our Family Album', encouraging residents to share personal moments from cherished traditions to everyday experiences. Entries remain open until June 30, 2026, as part of the Year of the Family theme.

The Dubai Mallathon event kicked off across Dubai on June 15, providing families and residents with opportunities for healthy recreation inside air-conditioned shopping centres during the summer heat. The initiative is part of broader community wellness programming under the Year of the Family.

Umm Al Emarat Park concluded its 2025-2026 season having welcomed more than 410,000 visitors from over 80 nationalities. The park's diverse programming and family-friendly environment attracted record attendance across the season.

The UAE government unveiled an AI-generated spokesman named Zayed, who will serve as the high-tech face of the International Affairs Office at the UAE Presidential Court. The government has also launched its first wave of AI agents used in tax auditing, procurement, customer happiness and technical support.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, has declared that the emirate's goal is to become the world's leading hub for developing and deploying advanced AI solutions. The statement accompanied the approval of an ambitious plan to accelerate Agentic AI adoption across 295,000 private sector companies.

The UAE established a federal Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority, approved by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid on June 14, to unify public data, AI, and digital government capabilities into a single national ecosystem. The authority will be chaired by Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, and report directly to the UAE Cabinet.

Northslope, an artificial intelligence company founded by former Palantir employees, opened its first Gulf region office in the UAE, providing AI-powered software for businesses and organisations. The move underscores the UAE's growing appeal as a destination for international AI firms.

Dubai approved an ambitious plan backed by Sheikh Hamdan to accelerate the adoption of Agentic Artificial Intelligence across the private sector, targeting 295,000 companies. The initiative aims to attract top international talent and reinforce Dubai's position as a global destination for innovation.

The 9th edition of the UAE Hackathon launched with a 'Making Impact' theme, bringing together entrepreneurs and innovators to develop solutions addressing key national priorities. The event reflects the UAE's continued commitment to nurturing homegrown tech talent and digital innovation.

AI-driven agriculture in the UAE is showing crop yield improvements of up to 35% and procurement savings of 20 to 30%, according to startups active in the sector. Livestock records are being transformed into accountable data as smart farming gains traction across the Emirates.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, featuring 48 teams across the United States, Canada and Mexico, kicked off on June 11 and UAE fans have full access through beIN SPORTS, the official MENA broadcaster. All 104 matches are available via beIN SPORTS satellite subscription, beIN CONNECT streaming, or the TOD platform.

UAE residents can stream all 104 World Cup matches live through beIN CONNECT and other licensed digital platforms, with talabat pro subscribers receiving a complimentary streaming subscription from June 4. The guide covers access on mobile, laptop, and smart TV devices.

With matches in the US, Canada and Mexico starting late by Gulf time, UAE football fans are facing a month of late-night viewing and disrupted schedules. Some UAE employers have responded by allowing remote and hybrid work arrangements during the tournament.

Several UAE companies are offering flexible working arrangements, including remote and hybrid options, as the FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage runs through June. Employers are proactively adjusting policies to accommodate fans while managing the expected dip in workplace productivity.

Venues across Dubai including Chalco's Cantina in Dubai Marina and McCafferty's in JVC are screening every FIFA World Cup match live from June 11, transforming into dedicated football fan zones. The Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek is also broadcasting all fixtures live on big screens through July 19.

The legendary Gipsy Kings by André Reyes will perform at Coca-Cola Arena on June 21, ahead of fans watching Spain take on Saudi Arabia in the FIFA World Cup 2026. The event combines a major live music concert with a collective World Cup viewing experience.

UAE residents have been flying out to North America for the FIFA World Cup 2026 after months of careful planning, navigating high travel costs and logistical challenges across three host nations. The enthusiasm of UAE-based fans reflects the country's diverse nationalities and deep passion for global football.

The National published a comprehensive guide for UAE and Arab region viewers on how to access the FIFA World Cup 2026 through satellite and streaming channels. The guide covers options for viewers across the GCC including Oman, Kuwait and Bahrain.

The UAE exited the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 at the group stage despite showing improved confidence during the tournament held in India and Sri Lanka. The team registered a win over Canada in Delhi but fell short against stronger opposition, finishing fourth in Group D.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan received the Presidential Camel Racing Team on June 9, honouring the squad's achievements in a sport deeply rooted in Emirati heritage. The meeting highlighted the continued importance of traditional sports in UAE national culture.

Gulf News rounded up the top weekend activities across the UAE including BTS-related screening events, poolside leisure and live entertainment. The guide reflects the broad and growing sports and leisure options available to UAE residents during the summer calendar.

HSBC has a pipeline of 45 mergers and acquisitions and IPO mandates across the Gulf, with listing activity expected to resume in the fourth quarter following the signing of the US-Iran agreement. The Gulf sovereign funds managing $5.7 trillion in aggregate assets have maintained the pace of quarterly investments despite the regional conflict.

Kuwait came under attack from missiles and drones as the United States and Iran traded military strikes in a Gulf escalation, underscoring the fragility of ceasefire efforts. The incident drew urgent GCC condemnation and raised concerns about the broader regional security environment.

The Gulf Cooperation Council issued a formal condemnation of Iranian drone and missile attacks on Kuwait, Bahrain and Jordan, reaffirming the principle that an attack on one member state is an attack on all. The statement reflected the bloc's collective defence posture amid heightened regional tensions.

Most state-controlled sovereign wealth funds across the six GCC member states, managing a combined $5.7 trillion in assets, have maintained the pace of quarterly investments despite the ongoing US-Iran conflict. Analysts say the funds' diversified global portfolios have provided resilience against regional geopolitical shocks.

A report found that the global economy is forgoing $2.2 trillion in economic output as a result of the US-Iran war, with Gulf states bearing a disproportionate share of the costs. A resumption of full hostilities would cause the economies of Bahrain and Kuwait to each shrink by approximately 10 per cent.