While the week of 24–30 March 2025 does not feature any sudden, headline‐breaking crises, several confirmed ongoing dynamics across the Middle East and North Africa continue to influence political and economic conditions. This roundup highlights key aspects in the areas of religious observance, public dissent, border security, and economic sentiment that readers should keep an eye on.
Ramadan’s Final Days and Eid al-Fitr
Across much of the MENA region, Ramadan is nearing its conclusion on 30 March 2025. This holy month, which has shaped daily routines and economic patterns for millions, is set to culminate in the celebration of Eid al-Fitr on 30 March.
Markets and retail sectors in countries such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan typically see a surge in consumer activity during the post-Ramadan period, as families gather and new clothes and gifts are purchased. Retailers and service providers have already adjusted their inventories and staffing levels in anticipation of the Eid rush.
Turkey: Continuing Public Dissent
In Turkey, political tensions remain high following earlier detentions of high-profile opposition figures, including the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu on 19 March 2025. While the most intense protests were reported between 19 and 22 March, reliable sources confirm that demonstrations and online dissent persist into the later part of March.
Security measures—such as restrictions on public gatherings and intermittent social media blocks—continue to be enforced by authorities. Although no new mass mobilizations have been officially confirmed for 24–30 March, observers note that residual public frustration is keeping the issue in the national conversation.
Lebanon: Border Vigilance and Economic Outlook
Lebanon’s political scene remains fragile despite the new government winning a confidence vote in late February. Recent cross-border incidents, including a rocket attack on Metula on 22 March 2025, have underscored that the ceasefire along the Israel–Lebanon border is still vulnerable. Security forces on both sides are maintaining a high level of alert.
In parallel, economic policymakers in Beirut and beyond are closely monitoring inflation and credit conditions as investors await updated data from key sectors.
Sudan: Fragile Stability Post-Recent Clashes
Sudan’s conflict, which has seen the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) regain control of central institutions in Khartoum by 21 March 2025, remains in a state of cautious stability.
Confirmed reports indicate that while major combat operations have paused after the SAF’s recapture of the Republican Palace and key government buildings in early March, sporadic clashes in peripheral areas continue to affect local populations. International lenders and humanitarian agencies are awaiting a clearer picture from the government before resuming suspended funding programs.
Economic Sentiment Across the Region
Investors remain cautious as economic uncertainty lingers in several MENA states.
In Turkey, for instance, recent market volatility following political unrest has prompted analysts to expect that central bank policymakers may adjust rates in the coming weeks to address currency pressures.
Meanwhile, countries like Egypt and Saudi Arabia are anticipated to release updated macroeconomic data later this month—data that could provide a clearer picture of growth trends amid external shocks.
Although detailed figures are not yet available for this week, economic commentary from reliable financial news agencies suggests that market participants are closely watching these developments.
Conclusion
While 24–30 March 2025 may appear relatively quiet compared to earlier turbulent months, the region is not without its underlying currents. The final days of Ramadan and the onset of Eid al-Fitr, persistent public dissent in Turkey, guarded border security in Lebanon, and cautious investor sentiment in key economies all combine to create a complex backdrop.
Readers should use this guide as a steady reference point, keeping in mind that even during quieter weeks, these trends can have lasting impacts on the MENA region’s political and economic future.