Swedish firms under threat from Al Qaeda
Companies step up Middle East security as Iraqi group offers $100k for killing of Swedish cartoonist.

8.5% of UAE population heads for the exit
This year's amnesty could see 350,000 illegal immigrants head home say officials.

Campaigns target Ramadan beggers
Gulf countries have launched campaigns to combat begging during the Muslim holy month.

Saudi remains on religious freedom blacklist
US report says religious freedom in the country remains 'severely restricted'.

Qatar's bid to transform our soulless cities
Last week, Qatar announced plans to cut its expatriate workforce by more than two-thirds - placing a cap on foreign workers at 50% by 2025.

Al Jazira CEO steps down
Chief executive Mishari resigns after 14 years, temporary replacement appointed.

Nasdaq could still raise OMX offer
US exchange says it remains flexible on structure of cash and shares offer and could boost bid.

Borse Dubai declares plan for IPO
"We intend to list Borse Dubai at an appropriate time," says Borse Dubai CEO Per Larsson.

Libya lures defence and aerospace investment
Government initiative could help defence and aerospace companies secure multi-billion dollar deals.

Ten vie for Egypt steel plants
Ezz Steel and Arcelor Mittal are among companies bidding to build four plants in the country.

Saudi Arabia's new industrial revolution
Saudi Arabia is experiencing an industrial revolution in manufacturing and engineering.

Middle East to invest $1.4bn in Malaysia
Group of Middle Eastern firms will invest in oil and gas, Islamic banking and property projects.

CNN to launch Middle East business show
CNN International is to launch its first weekly business show dedicated to the Middle East.

Etihad to sponsor Chelsea FC
UAE airline is unveiled as Platinum Sponsor for the UK premiership team in seven figure deal.

Vivendi eyes one third Oger stake
The French media group is in advanced talks to acquire a 33% stake in Dubai-based Oger Telecom

India's Jet Airways will begin Gulf flights in Jan
The soaring success of Jet Airways over the past year has prompted it to push to open Gulf routes.