Said Bakr is a research associate in political economy at the Arab Gulf States Institute. His research focuses on the geoeconomic and geopolitical dynamics of the Middle East, Levantine politics, and Gulf investments and economic diversification efforts. Bakr holds an MA from Georgetown University’s Walsh School of Foreign Service and a BA in political science from Gustavus Adolphus College.
Prior to joining AGSI, Bakr worked in the wealth management industry, where he gained foundational knowledge of stock markets and securities. He also worked as a Program and Grant Assistant and an Arabic Teaching Assistant at Georgetown University. Additionally, he interned at the Gulf International Forum and the City of St. Peter, Minnesota.
Bakr is a native Arabic speaker and possesses a working knowledge of Persian. He has lived in Syria and the United Arab Emirates.
Analysis
Regional States Test the Economic Waters in Syria
New investment deals, mainly from the Gulf states and Turkey, are opening a path for Syrian reconstruction. But the fragile security situation and financial environment remain hurdles for foreign investment.
The New Gulf IPO Playbook: Sector Diversification and Growing Investor Selectivity
The region’s landscape for initial public offerings is entering a more mature and globally aligned phase after a trend-defying boom.
Diverging Paths: Gulf Critical Mineral Strategies
Gulf states are active in the critical mineral sector, but their approaches and strategies vary widely.
Kuwait-China Economic Ties Expand Beyond Hydrocarbons
While hydrocarbons will likely continue to dominate Kuwait-China economic ties, the two countries are increasing cooperation in sectors such as construction, logistics, and renewable energy, suggesting a growing appetite to broaden ties beyond oil.
Sanctions on Syria Prevent Economic Recovery and Rebuilding the Country
For Syria to have a chance at stability, the United States and the EU need to urgently consider lifting the layers of economic sanctions imposed on Syria under Assad and allow Gulf countries to help rebuild the war-torn country.
Sanctions on Syria: Iran’s Economic Gains and the Gulf-U.S. Divide
On Syria, the United States risks becoming increasingly out of step with its key allies, who have moved toward diplomatic engagement.
