The Arab region is going through one of its most challenging periods in modern times, as the Iran-US/Israel war —unlike any other—rages on, widening and threatening regional security and the global economy. The Gulf states are not parties to the conflict, but the scope of events, the entanglement of geography and the intersection of interests are drawing these countries into the flames of war.
The Strait of Hormuz, the gateway for a fifth of the world’s energy supply, has become today’s dilemma and a flashpoint of tension. The combination of geography and wealth is fuelling political turmoil and conflict.
All the proposed scenarios are fraught with risks and bleakness, the least burdensome of which is dealing with the repercussions and consequences of this war once it ends. The worst and bleakest scenario is that it will drag on.
Is the global energy system prepared for a longer-term conflict? Are countries capable of and willing to be saddled with the burden of the potential economic strains? The current conflagration is already creating far-reaching effects, and there are concerns that it may deepen further with time.
The insurance industry’s reactions, both regionally and globally, reflect the ongoing developments and anticipate what lies ahead. As an industry whose data intersects with all commercial and human activities, it monitors both current conditions and emerging risks. It’s still early days for the insurance sector to form a complete picture, as the extent and nature of losses have not yet been precisely determined. However, all in all, the view is not as alarming – at least so far!
Our market profile for our April issue focuses on the UAE, a country that has been hit harder than its neighbours in the ongoing war. The insurance market entered 2026 with high expectations, and players remain optimistic and determined to overcome challenges. The industry’s leaders maintain their motto of “business as usual”, and that the sector has a role to play at all stages, whether in times of difficulties or in seizing opportunities.
In addition to the usual technical articles and interviews, the April issue includes a collection of timely commentaries addressing the current crisis. MEIR has been closely monitoring developments from an insurance perspective and a risk management standpoint, including speaking to the region’s insurance leaders for their views. In solidarity with the market, Middle East Insurance Review launched The MEIR Dialogue on the Middle East Crisis; a new current affairs series focussed on the insurance impact of the conflict delivered in the form of editorials, news podcasts, videos and daily reports covering what is happening.
Meanwhile, the Arab world and the wider globe are watching closely to see whether this war marks a crossroad or another sharp turn— a space to watch regardless of all sorts of calculations, with the hope the armed hostilities will come to an end soon. M
Osama Noor
Editor
Chief Representative
Middle East Insurance Review