Should Gulf countries ditch customs taxes?
Dr. Omar Al Ubaydli notes that Gulf countries should work toward eliminating customs taxes, switching exclusively to VAT. The primary benefit will be in opening markets for the Gulf countries’ new non-oil exports as they implement their economic visions…..
Should the China-US trade dispute worry Gulf countries?
US President Donald Trump has been ratcheting up the pressure on China in the Sino-American trade war, with the latest salvo being an increase of tariffs on $200bn of Chinese goods from 10 percent to 25 percent. Dr. Omar Al-Ubaydli discuses the unveil of the Chinese retaliation and the initiation of formal bilateral negotiations to resolve the disagreement…
Getting the most out of Saudi Arabia’s new residency permit
Saudi Arabia’s Shoura Council just approved a special residency permit for entrepreneurs, investors, and skilled expatriates. Dr. Omar A-Ubaydli discusses this potentially positive step for the economy ……
BUILDING RESILIENCE: The Economics-Politics connect in the Arab Gulf
The EGIC, Italy, hosted Dr. Omar Al-Ubaydli, to present findings from the recent Bahrain Human Development Report 2018 and to discuss the importance of socio-economic development to peace, security and resilience.
US Trade Deficit – magnet for investment
Dr. Omar Al-Ubaydli discusses why President Trump’s fight against a trade deficit maybe misguided.
How the openness of the Gulf economy boosts productivity
Dr. Omar talk about how the openness of the Gulf economy boosts productivity.
Should Arabian Gulf countries impose trade tariffs?
Economists typically criticise import tariffs, because they result in higher prices for consumers.The Arabian Gulf countries have generally subscribed to this view. However, as the Gulf countries look to diversify their economies, is it time to consider imposing temporary tariffs to develop domestic industries?
Saudi entrepreneurs and a 1950 Italian-US agreement model
In order to boost entrepreneurship, Saudi Arabia should consider following a 1950s plan used to improve the Italian economy, which was done in partnership with the US, a recent paper by Michela Giorcelli of the University of California suggested.
Why ‘keeping up with the Joneses’ never pays off
Omar Al Ubaydli investigates how our consumption decisions partially reflect our efforts to convey a certain social status to others, sending a signal to our peers that we are wealthy and powerful, and that we have good taste…….
Venezuela proves Gulf prosperity should not be taken for granted
As the political crisis unfolding in Venezuela seizes the headlines, analysts frequently draw attention to the fact that the South American country has the largest oil reserves in the world………
