My own observations in the region indicate that governments, despite the current economic challenges to employment levels, are successfully responding to this increased demand for professional employment opportunities (e.g. broader Saudisation of, combined with increased female participation in, the local workforce), which in turn is fuelling consumer-led economic growth across non-oil sectors. Conclusion In conclusion, the Middle East remains a fascinating region and will continue to respond to regional and global events, whether they have potential upside or downside. I also suspect that 2021, like 2020, will also provide some unexpected political and security challenges in the region, which are always difficult to predict but must still be managed. Unsurprisingly, as a profession we must therefore continue to help our respective employers and clients to anticipate, understand and navigate these risks and opportunities.
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