For past many years, the GCC countries have been initiating localization drives, particularly in the oil and gas industry. The major localization initiatives in the region started with Oman Oils In-Country Value (ICV) program followed by Saudi ARAMCO’s IKtVa and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) ICV program.
Every business was looking optimistic for a great 2020 at the beginning of the year, but now are facing a completely different scenario. The COVID-19 pandemic has severely affected businesses across every industry and geographical region. The norms of businesses have changed, be it remote working, changed customer preferences and priorities or radically transformed operational networks.
The world woke up to the unexpected and astounding news of the peace treaty between the UAE and Israel, making UAE just the third Arab state, after Egypt and Jordan to establish formal ties with Israel. UAE scrapped an economic boycott against Israel which was in place for decades, allowing trade and financial agreements between the countries.
As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to rip nations, governments are forced to impose strict public health measures, such as social distancing, to physically disrupt the conta- gion. By doing so, the flow of goods and people are halted, economies are stalled and many economists are predicting a global recession. But there is hope as many govern- ments are taking unprecedented steps to contain the economic damages caused by this pandemic.