January 5, 2026

One Year After Assad Falls: Syria Faces Cultural Shifts and Business Uncertainty

Since Assad’s fall, Syria is changing fast. Shops sell revolutionary gear, but tourists and customers have vanished. Wineries face new rules. Alcohol sales are stalled as new Islamist government sets unclear laws. Syrians enjoy freedom yet navigate new limits.

January 5, 2026

Saudi Arabia Sets Higher Saudization Targets, Introduces Minimum Wage for Engineers

Saudi Arabia boosts local job quotas in engineering and procurement with new saudization targets. Minimum wage of SAR 8,000 introduced for Saudi engineers to build stronger workforce.

January 5, 2026

Pentagon Funds Controversial Quebec Graphite Mine Amid Local Backlash

A Canadian graphite mine in Quebec’s La Petite-Nation backed by the Pentagon faces fierce local protests over environmental worries and US military involvement. The mine will produce 100,000 tonnes of graphite for 15 years, fueling tensions between residents and investors.

January 5, 2026

Oil Prices Dip After US Captures Maduro; Former Chevron Exec Eyes $2bn Investment in Venezuela

Oil prices slipped after the US captured Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro. A former Chevron boss is raising $2bn to invest in Venezuela's oil. Despite falling output, Venezuela holds huge crude reserves. OPEC+ sticks to current production plans. Gold, silver, and bitcoin also rose amid global uncertainty.

January 5, 2026

Trump Says US Oil Firms Can Fix Venezuela’s Broken Industry and Make Big Money

President Trump says US oil giants will invest billions to repair Venezuela’s failing oil sector. Venezuela holds massive oil reserves but faces tough challenges with low output and damaged infrastructure.