Jing Lin
Research Fellow, Middle East Institute, National University of SingaporeArticles by Jing Lin
Politics
China may be the biggest winner from UAE’s OPEC exit
The true drivers of the UAE’s decision to exit OPEC hinge on the shifting alliances of the Arabian peninsula, centred on the rivalry between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, says Middle East Institute-NUS fellow Jing Lin. China stands to benefit, not only in oil supplies but in wider aims like the internationalisation of the RMB — but only if it plays its cards right in balancing between the two regional heavyweights.
Jing Lin
13 May 2026
Politics
Why America fights alongside Israel as China holds back in Iran
Israel has catalysed a US-led campaign against Iran, aiming to reshape regional power, while China stays defensive. Can Beijing maintain its equidistant stance, protect energy and supply chains, and avoid being drawn into the conflict? Middle East Institute-NUS fellow Jing Lin analyses the situation.
Jing Lin
18 Mar 2026
Economy
Chinese firms bullish on the Gulf despite geopolitical storms
Chinese firms are expanding in the Gulf despite regional rivalries and tensions. Profitable projects, resilient logistics and growing demand make the Middle East a long-term growth frontier rather than a risk to avoid. Middle East Institute-NUS research fellow Jing Lin shares her insights.
Jing Lin
24 Feb 2026
Society
From screen to sand: Why Chinese tourists are flocking to the Middle East
Once an exotic and faraway destination for Chinese travellers, the Middle East has become China’s new travel fascination. Driven by the combination of popular reality shows and formal tourism expos, curiosity turns into connectivity, pointing to a new phase of China-Middle East engagement, notes Middle East Institute-NUS research fellow Jing Lin.
Jing Lin
03 Nov 2025
Politics
Egypt’s tightrope: Chinese funds, US arms and a new capital
The story of China-Egypt relations is one shaped by historical ebbs and flows, fast-paced but uneven development, and a set of emerging risks that may determine the sustainability of this latest golden era, says Middle East Institute-NUS research fellow Jing Lin.
Jing Lin
04 Aug 2025
Politics
No troops, no demands: China’s new appeal in a war-weary world
China’s limited engagement in the Iran-Israel conflict has not made it irrelevant in the Middle East. On the contrary, it has enhanced its appeal, especially among countries seeking partners beyond traditional power politics, says Middle East Institute-NUS research fellow Jing Lin.
Jing Lin
09 Jul 2025
Politics
ASEAN vs GCC: Why one embraces China, the other hesitates
The inaugural ASEAN-GCC-China Summit signalled an interest in building a pragmatic model of global south cooperation that blends political flexibility, economic complementarity and cultural dialogue, says Middle East Institute-NUS research fellow Jing Lin.
Jing Lin
04 Jun 2025
