This week on The Business a seismic shift in the economy of the Middle East as the state of Dubai's finances is laid bare.
Joining Aditya Chakrabortty in the studio are head of business Dan Roberts , business editor Deborah Hargreaves, and Observer economics editor Heather Stewart.
The Guardian's Brian Whitaker, author of What's Really Wrong With the Middle East, says a property boom and a lack of transparency in government meant Dubai's bubble had to burst eventually.
Plus we look ahead to next week's pre-budget report. With the nation's finances in such a mess, what options are left open to the chancellor?
And as the housing market splutters back to life, we'll find out how hard it remains to get a mortgage - especially for first time buyers.
Tell us your experiences and post your comments on the show below.
