Planning your Middle East market entry? Learn the 10 key due diligence questions every brand must ask before selecting a partner, covering licensing, localization, IP protection, and strategic growth across the GCC.

لم يعد نمو صناعة الترخيص في الشرق الأوسط مرتبطاً فقط باستيراد العلامات العالمية، بل أيضاً ببناء ملكيات فكرية محلية قوية. يناقش هذا المقال كيف يمكن تحويل المفاهيم المحلية إلى أصول قابلة للترخيص والتوسع والنمو.

A practical guide for brands deciding whether to enter the Middle East through licensing or a joint venture, and how to choose the right growth model for control, speed, and long-term value.

A strategic perspective on why short-term geopolitical uncertainty does not change the Middle East’s long-term value as a licensing, retail, and brand expansion market. Originally published in Total Licensing, Spring 2026.

Explore what the 2026 Gulf crisis reveals about institutional resilience, Bedouin leadership traditions, crisis signaling, and how Gulf governance systems respond to volatility with calibrated control.

East Block in Canada's Parliament Hill on a beautiful afternoon - Image Credit: Envato Elements For decades, Canadian brands seeking international expansion have primarily looked to the United States. The shared language, geographical proximity, and trade agreements like USMCA (formerly NAFTA) have made it a natural choice. However, in an increasingly unpredictable global economy, over-reliance on the U.S. presents growing risks. This has been evident with shifting trade poli

In today’s interconnected world, business networking has become an essential driver of growth and expansion, particularly in dynamic and rapidly evolving markets like the Middle East. Licensing businesses, which rely heavily on relationships, partnerships, and trust, are uniquely dependent on strong networking foundations to succeed. Global business networking events such as Licensing Expo, Brand Licensing Europe (BLE), and numerous other licensing events supported by Licensi

Rebuilding a nation ravaged by years of conflict is a task of epic proportions. It requires vision, collaboration, and the collective efforts of individuals across various disciplines. For me, as a cultural and media expert, this mission has become deeply personal. Over the past two years, I have had the privilege of being part of the  Syrian Professional Network  (Syrpronet), an inspiring community of more than 5,000 Syrian professionals located across the globe. Together, w

A strategic look at aesthetic leadership in the Middle East, examining how tradition, symbolic imagery, cultural authenticity, and innovation influence modern leadership narratives in the region.

يتناول هذا المقال أهمية إعادة بناء الهوية الوطنية السورية ودور الثقافة والحوكمة وتمكين الشباب وترويج العلامة الوطنية في دعم التعافي الوطني وإعادة صياغة صورة سوريا المستقبلية.

This article explores how nation branding can support Syria’s recovery by reconnecting cultural heritage, governance reform, youth empowerment and economic rebuilding into a new national narrative.

This article explores why strategic partnerships are essential for brand licensing growth in the Middle East and Africa and how trust, cultural alignment, local expertise and due diligence shape success.

This article explores whether licensing is a strong market-entry strategy for the Middle East and Africa and how local expertise, due diligence, cultural adaptation and legal planning influence results.

This article explores how Licensing Horizons is contributing to the growth of the licensing industry in the Middle East by bringing together industry leaders, global experts, and regional decision-makers in Dubai.

This article explores the main licensing challenges in the Middle East and how brands can manage IP protection, local compliance, cultural sensitivity, and market-entry risk more effectively.

This article explores why cultural sensitivity is essential in Middle East licensing and how authenticity, local expertise, and deeper cultural engagement help brands build trust and long-term relevance in MENA.

Cultural diversity in the UAE as a competitive advantage for talent attraction, tolerance and global business growth.

Ramadan traditions and customs in the Middle East including iftar, suhoor, charity, and business culture

A practical guide to Saudi Arabia’s culture, etiquette, social values, and business environment, including trust-building, communication, and relationship-based business norms.

A practical guide to business culture in Saudi Arabia, covering trust, etiquette, partner selection, negotiation style, and market-entry considerations.