Middle East and North Africa

The MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region is a macro-region, home to nearly half a billion people, as large as Europe and rich in natural resources. For centuries, it has been characterized by cultural, religious and linguistic diversity, incessant migratory flows, as well as enduring conflicts and rivalries. Some countries invest in ambitious industrial and technological development plans, such as those on the Arabian Peninsula. Others, from Morocco to Egypt, are experiencing strong growth. However, a few, such as Somalia, Yemen and Sudan are devastated by war and terrorism. Finally, some, like Syria and Iraq, are in a phase of reconstruction. This book analyzes the opportunities available for those intending to invest, start businesses, and conduct trade in these States, providing, through easy-to-use summary sheets, detailed and up-to-date information on regulatory frameworks, labor policies, tax incentives, and the use of instruments offered by Islamic Finance.