GCC’s renewable energy push pays off with Qatar, UAE taking lead Several Gulf states rank relatively high on the World Economic Forum (WEF) Energy Transition Index, reflecting their efforts to transition toward renewable energy and reduce their dependence on fossil fuels. Saudi Arabia
Analysis What’s behind Islamic State’s first attack in Oman? ISIS has not affected Oman as much as it has other Gulf countries, in part due to the sultanate’s strong security and lack of radicalism, according to one expert. By Adam Lucente In New York City, reporting on regional news, militancy, climate change
Interview Oman to phase out polluting industries 'too difficult to decarbonize' Omani Minister of Energy and Minerals Salim Al Aufi told Al-Monitor that if his government finds an industry too difficult or costly to decarbonize, there will be discussions taking place about phasing the sector out all together. With Salim Al Aufi Oman Minister of Energy and Minerals
Biden names US ambassadors to Jordan, Oman The US president has nominated Yael Lempert as US ambassador to Jordan, Ana Escrogima as US ambassador to Oman and named Dorothy Shea, currently the US ambassador to Lebanon, for deputy US representative to the United Nations Jordan
Japan strengthens energy ties to Saudi Arabia, Oman Oman wants to increase its natural gas exports, and Saudi Arabia continues to show interest in clean energy and carbon capture technology. Gulf
UAE, Oman boost ties with deals on high-speed rail, combating financial crimes The agreements are in line with the UAE’s foreign policy, which prioritizes regional partnerships. United Arab Emirates
Oman to allow foreign ownership for companies on Muscat stock exchange The move will help Oman diversify its economy away from dependency on oil. The country has recently sought investment from its neighbors in the Gulf. Oman
4,000-year-old stone board game discovered at Oman excavation site Archaelogists said the board game appeared similar to other games played during the Bronze Age. Oman
Oman lifts ban on vaccinated travelers from 18 countries Oman is loosening restrictions on travel amid a decline in COVID-19 cases across the Gulf country. Oman
Omani FM voices hope Israel's new leaders will advance Palestinian state Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi told his Israeli counterpart that the Gulf country is hopeful the new government in Israel can take "concrete steps" to establish a sovereign Palestinian state. Israel
The reform challenge: What Oman (and others) might learn from Egypt Parallels in experience may offer guideposts for managing change. Oman
Protests in Oman over job losses, economy Sultan Haitham has attempted to introduce economic and political reforms in the past year. News Brief
Oman bans popular chat app Clubhouse The audio-only phone application is popular throughout the Middle East but could face further restrictions. Oman
Oman closes land border, parks and beaches as vaccine rollout continues The sultanate's anti-virus committee announced several new restrictions on travel and gatherings on Wednesday. Oman
