Dubai to set up real estate watchdog
Dubai ruler issues royal decree establishing Real Estate Regulatory Authority to oversee industry.

Deutsche Bank closes Iran business
Germany's biggest bank closes retail customer operations in Iran after sanctions make business untenable.

First private TV station for Jordan
Independent station begins broadcasting today as an alternative to the state-run Jordan Television.

Veil hinders Gulf jobseekers
Women who wear the niqab say they have trouble getting public-facing jobs even in Gulf Arab countries.

Summer in the city
For those living in the Middle East, the arrival of summer starts a clamour for survival tactics to counteract the high temperatures and humidity.

Emirates Bank, NBD profits surge
EBI and NBD see net income rise over 40% in final quarter before they merge to create Gulf's largest lender.

Kuwait Resorts to sell $50 mn Islamic bonds
Hilton Hotel operator says sukuk will be issued to finance outstanding loans and future expansions.

Fitch ups Saudi rating
Rating outlook on Saudi Arabia is lifted to positive from stable on the strength of high oil prices.

GCC wins $218mn Business Avenue build
Property developer Al Mazaya has named General Construction Company as main contractor for its landmark commercial project.

World's largest carpet set for UAE
Iran unveils a $5.8 mn handwoven carpet, larger than a football pitch, to be housed in an Abu Dhabi mosque.

Gulf PC market shrugs off growing pains
Economic growth set to fuel expansion of PC market in the Gulf States, IDC predicts.

Cargo company boosts cold chain products
Continental Airlines Cargo is setting the stage for expansion of its temperature-controlled product line.

Singapore big for Mideast medical tourists
Book launched to promote the Southeast Asian country as a destination for healthcare travellers.