Gulf governments must do more to encourage their citizens to work in the private sector. That’s the word from Masood Ahmed, regional head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He told ARN News that governments can no longer afford to be the default employer for young GCC nationals entering the workforce.
Listen
Earlier this week, the IMF cut its growth forecast for Saudi Arabia to 1.2%, blaming sharp cut-backs in government spending, as oil hovers below $30 a barrel. Ahmed said the UAE is better placed to weather the oil price downturn, thanks to its more diversified economy. He predicts the UAE’s non-oil economy to grow between 2.5 and 3% this year.

UAE–South Korea CEPA comes into force on May 1
Meraas awards AED 2.4 billion in construction contracts for 'The Acres'
Bangladesh set to sign Boeing jet deal, shifting from Airbus
UAE Circular Economy Council focuses on food security, sustainable growth
UAE announces decision to withdraw from OPEC and OPEC+
