UAE Non-Oil Business Activity Surges to Nine-Month High in December

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 The United Arab Emirates' non-oil private sector recorded its fastest expansion in nine months in December 2024, buoyed by strong domestic demand and increased business activity, according to the latest S&P Global Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) report. PMI Highlights Robust Growth The seasonally adjusted UAE PMI climbed to 55.4 in December from 54.2 in November, signaling robust growth well above the 50.0 threshold that separates expansion from contraction. This marked the third consecutive monthly increase, underscoring sustained recovery in the non-oil sector. Key drivers of growth included a notable rise in new business activity. The new orders subindex rose sharply to 59.3 in December from 58.0 in the previous month, reflecting strong domestic demand. Challenges Amid the Growth While domestic demand flourished, export growth slowed, with the export orders subindex dropping to a seven-month low. Additionally, businesses faced mounting backlogs due to capacity constraints,...

Strengthening Diplomatic Ties: Blinken and UAE Foreign Minister Discuss Regional Challenges

 In a significant diplomatic engagement, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken held discussions with Emirati Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan on December 11. The dialogue underscored the robust partnership between the United States and the UAE while addressing pressing regional issues, particularly the situation in Syria and the cessation of hostilities between Israel and Lebanon.



Focus on Syria

The conversation highlighted the ongoing crisis in Syria, emphasizing the importance of maintaining critical institutions, safeguarding key services, and protecting vulnerable civilian populations. Secretary Blinken reiterated the United States' commitment to supporting a Syrian government that is accountable and led by Syrians. The discussion also touched upon the necessity of ensuring humanitarian aid reaches those in need, preventing the use of Syrian territory for terrorist activities, and securing the destruction of chemical weapons stockpiles.

Secretary Blinken further called upon opposition groups within Syria to demonstrate their commitment to the rights and well-being of all Syrians, stressing the importance of inclusivity and accountability in shaping Syria’s future.

Regional Stability and Lebanon

The dialogue also addressed the implementation of the cessation of hostilities between Israel and Lebanon. Both leaders expressed support for efforts to strengthen the Lebanese Armed Forces as a key institution in maintaining stability and security within Lebanon.

Reinforcing UAE-U.S. Relations

This conversation reflects the depth of cooperation and shared objectives between the UAE and the United States in addressing regional challenges. The continued partnership between the two nations highlights a mutual commitment to fostering peace, stability, and humanitarian support in the Middle East.

As the region faces complex geopolitical dynamics, the dialogue between Secretary Blinken and Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed serves as a reminder of the critical importance of diplomacy in addressing shared challenges and promoting sustainable solutions.

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