The Gulf region has long been synonymous with rapid economic growth, fueled by oil wealth, ambitious diversification strategies, and booming financial markets. Yet, 2025 has exposed a darker underbelly — one where sophisticated financial scams have eroded trust, cost investors billions, and forced regulators into damage control. From Ponzi schemes masquerading as lucrative oil investments to high-profile embezzlement cases, the year has been a stark reminder that financial crime thrives where oversight lags. The Rise and Fall of Gulf Star Investments Dubai’s Gulf Star Investments, led by the charismatic Ahmed Al-Sayegh, promised investors extraordinary returns from oil infrastructure projects. The pitch was compelling enough to attract over $1.1 billion in capital. But behind the glossy presentations and high-profile networking events lay a classic Ponzi scheme. Funds were funneled into shell companies and offshore accounts rather than actual projects. By the time authorities int...