Saudi Arabia's first-quarter budget figures reflect a steadily diversifying the economy, reducing reliance on oil as the country's main source of income, and boosting opportunities the private sector

A peaceful phase would also facilitate the proper utilisation of Yemen's underdeveloped oil and gas resources, which constitute the largest proportion of the country's undeveloped GDP

Proper respect for citizens' rights and especially an end to politically motivated arrests will help encourage the Yemenis the country needs to return home. Broader, federalised power will be key.

The ceasefire and reconciliation have provided a glimmer of hope in the ongoing crisis, and Yemenis are finally able to find some relief from the long-standing turmoil

The Saudi-Iranian rapprochement in March marked an important milestone that will have major repercussions for the Middle East and beyond. In Yemen, it faces its first test.

The deal is an opportunity to build trust between the two countries until it leads to a favourable regional climate that will have positive knock-on effects in Yemen and other troubled states

For the second year in a row, Arab participation in the London Book Fair has been extremely successful, highlighting the will to bridge the gap between Arab and foreign book publishers

From multi-billion dollar contracts to boost port capacity to new shipping lines and logistical parks, maritime transport is at the forefront of Vision 2030 plans to transform the Kingdom's economy

The launch of four special economic zones is a groundbreaking step aimed at attracting foreign investors and skilled professionals to Saudi Arabia

Countries such as Lebanon, Syria, Egypt, Tunisia, and Morocco have been traditional magnets for tourists in the region, but now GCC countries are becoming rising competitors