Middle East conflict & consumer costs: The US and Iran traded fresh strikes, again putting the interim ceasefire at risk and reviving worries about Strait of Hormuz disruptions—oil jumped and markets wobbled, with economists warning of renewed fuel-price pressure and knock-on inflation. Travel & retail behavior: Research tied to the Iran war shows more people leaning on package holidays and travel agents for security and refunds, plus more last-minute booking as travellers wait on prices. Egypt macro & household impact: The IMF lifted Egypt’s FY2026/27 GDP growth forecast to 4.6%, while CAPMAS said annual inflation eased to 12.2% in June, with food and garments among key drivers—QNB Egypt also reported net profits up 23% YoY in H1. Egypt manufacturing for exports: SCZONE signed a deal for a $1.5m industrial gloves factory in Ain Sokhna, aiming at export production and 100 jobs, while Egypt also discussed a $20m smart auto manufacturing hub with China’s Jiangsu Changhong. GCC logistics for shoppers: DP World added 700 trucks to its GCC freight network to speed port-to-door delivery for retailers, manufacturers and food importers. Saudi travel convenience: Saudi Arabia launched a “Package Visa” that bundles visa application with travel booking for eligible tourists, starting with Pakistan. E-commerce & AI shopping: DHL’s 2026 e-commerce trends point to AI-assisted shopping and second-hand retail moving from trend to mainstream across markets.