Having defined in the first part the concept of Special Border Economic Zones (SBEZ) and its multifaceted dimensions – economic, social, institutional, and legal – as well as the developmental promises and opportunities for integration it holds, in contrast to the challenges and sensitivities surrounding it, the second part presented pioneering Asian experiences. These were considered models for transforming border regions into engines of growth and levers for regional cooperation. In this third and final part, we will highlight Gulf experiences before returning to the Lebanese-Syrian model, which is the core issue. The proposed joint economic zone project on the border between the two countries raises precise questions about the viability of the endeavor: Will it be a true economic and developmental lever, or will it fall prey to political tensions and structural divisions?
In an era where cross-border economic integration has become a fundamental catalyst for sustainable growth, states are competing to innovate new forms of regional partnerships, leveraging the advantages of geography, historical ties, and mutual interests. From Asia to the Gulf, experiences reveal that joint economic zones are no longer merely local investment projects but have become platforms for strategic integration and bridges that redefine the maps of trade and development.
From the UAE-Oman model in the “Al Rawda” project, which embodies the convergence of major national visions – “Oman Vision 2040″ and Dubai Agenda “D33” – on a promising integrative platform, extending to the Lebanese-Syrian border, where challenges are as abundant as opportunities, the question remains open: Will borders transform into platforms for cooperation upon which economic success stories are built, or will they remain hostage to political alignments and sterile conflicts?
UAE-Oman Economic Integration… An Inspiring Partnership for Promising Sustainability
In alignment with Oman Vision 2040 and Dubai Economic Agenda D33, and in the context of enhancing economic integration, strategic partnerships, attracting high-quality investments, and achieving sustainable development, the Al Rawda Special Economic Zone project in the Wilayat of Mahdah, Al Buraimi Governorate, near the border with the United Arab Emirates, was launched in late May 2025. Covering an area of 14 square kilometers, with potential for expansion, and an initial investment value exceeding $2 billion in its first phase,
the zone will benefit from its connectivity to Jebel Ali Port in the Emirate of Dubai and Omani ports. In its initial phase, the zone targets several key economic activities, most notably manufacturing industries, logistics and warehousing services, pharmaceutical and medical industries, plastics, mining, and food industries, as well as safety and security services. Companies operating within the zone will enjoy numerous advantages, including reduced or exempted customs duties, streamlined licenses and permits, modern infrastructure, and high-quality logistical support. According to specialized studies and statistics, the zone is expected to facilitate the flow of goods and services, create numerous job opportunities, and provide a safe and promising investment environment, which will enhance the desired growth and innovation.
The Core Issue: The Lebanese-Syrian Border – “Where the Problem and Solution Lie”
Fate has dictated that the geographical proximity between Lebanon and Syria has generated shared, immutable legacies that are inherently deserving of respect and inevitably challenging to circumvent. This necessitates addressing their particular economic and societal manifestations with prudent wisdom, incisive rationality, and conscious, prescient awareness. Such an approach must prioritize the exigencies of the locale and the distinct characteristics of communities aspiring to prosperity, tranquility, and contentment, irrespective of the “outcry” of “detestable political theatrics” or the extent of denial within “unsound protectionist impulses”.
In the Lebanese reality, the lexicon of the refined Arabic language has been exhausted of words, phrases, and descriptions depicting the pervasive deprivation that has afflicted Lebanon since its inception until now. This has occurred to the extent that ears have become deafened, and “balanced development” has become a persistent, inseparable refrain in the statements, plans, and visions of successive government policies over past eras. Indeed, “balanced deprivation” has paradoxically emerged as the norm and the strategic antidote to evade the “stings” of demands for upliftment, reconstruction, and development. This has unfolded within insular and opportunistic populist moments, marked by the blight of “unconstructive” criticism and destructive grandstanding that undermines aspiring individuals and promising young talents.
And because truth prevails and cannot be overcome, and because the destinies and glories of nations – as historical evidence has demonstrated since ancient times – are not forged by an abundance of rhetoric and dwelling on past misfortunes, nor by subservience to ephemeral loyalties. Rather, they are built through profound reflection and discernment concerning an imperative course for upliftment, no matter how severe the constraints, or how blocked the paths may appear.
Indeed, God has endowed our sparkling Lebanon, rich in history and pride, and civilization-rooted Syria, along both sides of their common border, with hidden treasures – both known and unknown. It is imperative to meticulously rediscover these, and skillfully invest in them, according to shared integrative visions born from common governmental policies. These policies should genuinely, not superficially, aid development on both sides of the border through regulated joint border economic zones with well-defined frameworks and provisions. The long-term success of these zones should not be measured solely by the number of companies or the volume of investments, but by the effectiveness of these projects in creating balanced employment opportunities and achieving the desired development and growth. Lessons and insights should be drawn from Asian, Gulf, and other experiences, in hopes that we can reconnect what has been severed in painful moments, allowing us to “meet” through the gates of economy and investment after a separation imposed by the dictates of controlling international policies.
On the ground, theoretical ambition transforms into a practical challenge. Identifying the precise locations for joint economic zones, preparing the necessary infrastructure, and connecting them to transportation networks and logistical services are the initial steps towards creating a tangible impact. This requires a meticulous study of the region’s resources, its human capabilities, and the needs of local populations, ensuring that these projects become a catalyst for development rather than an additional burden on communities.
Moreover, the balanced involvement of both local and international private sectors represents a cornerstone for the project’s success. Without the participation of investors capable of introducing modern technology, improving supply chains, and providing genuine employment opportunities, the initiative remains merely a beautiful rhetorical statement on paper. Here, insights can be drawn from Asian and Gulf experiences regarding investment attraction mechanisms, including tax incentives, administrative facilitations, and ensuring a stable environment for investors, without prejudicing the rights of local populations.
The social and cultural dimension cannot be overlooked, especially in the Lebanese-Syrian border regions, where history and geography have a direct impact on daily relations between the inhabitants. The success of any joint economic zone depends on continuous dialogue with local communities, training human resources, and establishing transparent systems for managing resources and services. This approach ensures the absence of friction or social tension and enhances local acceptance of the project.
Finally, continuous oversight and good governance remain fundamental to sustainability. This includes clear mechanisms for dispute resolution, monitoring financial and developmental performance, and evaluating results against established objectives, thereby allowing for the timely adjustment of policies and interventions.
Viewing the project with this pragmatic, realistic perspective transforms the borders of affliction into a gateway for remedy and turns Lebanese-Syrian contiguity into a genuine opportunity to reconnect two integrated economies and disseminate sustainable development on both sides of the border.
And here we add to what the Argentine writer Borges rightly observed: Do we not learn with every farewell!? From our perspective, we ask: Do we not advance with every encounter!? Is there an answer?!!!
Undoubtedly, no situation is immutable; change is inevitable. Ultimately, only what is just will prevail, even if it takes time. And God is always the bestower of success.