Content

Issue Brief

Mar 20, 2025

A lifeline under threat: Why the Suez Canal’s security matters for the world

By Racha Helwa, Perrihan Al-Riffai

The Suez Canal is both a maritime choke point and vital waterway for global trade and energy security. Given its strategic role as the fastest sea route between Asia and Europe, any disruption to the Suez Canal can have outsized impacts on global commerce and energy markets, as have occurred in recent years.

Economy & Business International Markets

In the News

Mar 18, 2025

Chamlou joins Iran International to discuss the consequences of the tariffs imposed by the US

By Atlantic Council

Economy & Business Farsi

In the News

Feb 25, 2025

Chamlou joins BBC Persian to discuss the tariff war and the new Ismaili leader

By Atlantic Council

Economy & Business Farsi

In the News

Feb 25, 2025

WIn Fellowship mentioned in Arab News on its event discussing AI’s role in driving economic growth in Saudi Arabia

By Atlantic Council

Artificial Intelligence Economy & Business

New Atlanticist

Feb 3, 2025

The green gold rush: Why renewable energy is Egypt’s next big opportunity

By Jonathan R. Cohen, Racha Helwa

Egypt’s abundant solar irradiance, strong wind corridors, and significant potential for cost-effective green hydrogen production give the country a competitive edge.

Africa Economy & Business

New Atlanticist

Dec 13, 2024

To solve the climate crisis, the world doesn’t just need a new international framework. It needs a new economic model.

By Mohamed Khalil

To combat climate change, the global economy must prioritize the well-being of people and the planet over profit generation.

Climate Change & Climate Action Energy & Environment

Report

Oct 22, 2024

The economic and social costs of the war in Gaza

By Perrihan Al-Riffai

After a year of war, Israel, the Palestinian territories, and neighboring countries need a permanent ceasefire. But with development gains erased, billions of dollars in infrastructure damaged, and skyrocketing unemployment, the Middle East also urgently needs a solid reconstruction plan.

Conflict Israel

MENASource

Oct 16, 2024

Vision 2030 has done wonders for women. But there’s still room to enhance their economic roles in Saudi Arabia.

By Beata Polok and Maha Akeel

Saudi Arabia’s progress under Vision 2030 is impressive, but the journey is not yet over.

Civil Society Economy & Business

Issue Brief

Jun 5, 2024

Policy memo: What will it take to make the MENA region a renewable energy powerhouse?

By Shihab Elborai, Anthony Yammine, and Pavel Popikov

The Middle East and North Africa region is well placed to become not just a major source of renewable energy, but also a central and indispensable player in the global energy transition, uniquely able to balance supply and demand for all types of energy, both hydrocarbons and renewables.

Energy & Environment Energy Markets & Governance

MENASource

May 15, 2024

Saudi women are learning financial literacy and it’s helping the country grow

By Hanaa Almoaibed

Since the launch of Vision 2030, economic developments have pushed women to be more independent and in control of their finances.

Civil Society Economy & Business
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Experts

Fellow

Perrihan Al-Riffai

Nonresident Senior Fellow

empowerME Rafik Hariri Center & Middle East programs

Arabic Economy & Business

Fellow

Jaime Stansbury

Nonresident Fellow

empowerME Rafik Hariri Center & Middle East programs

Arabic Economy & Business

Fellow

Hanaa Almoaibed

Nonresident Senior Fellow

empowerME Rafik Hariri Center & Middle East programs

Arabic Economy & Business

Staff

Hezha Barzani

Associate Director, empowerME Initiative

empowerME Rafik Hariri Center & Middle East programs

Education Human Rights

Staff

Nibras Basitkey

Associate Director, empowerME

empowerME Rafik Hariri Center & Middle East programs

Arabic Economy & Business

Fellow

Lama El Hatow

Nonresident Fellow

empowerME Rafik Hariri Center & Middle East programs

Africa Climate Change & Climate Action
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