The UAE – an unparalleled investment destination

The United Arab Emirate was created as a federation and unified independent sovereign state in 1971. In addition to Abu Dhabi, its member emirates are Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. The official language is Arabic, but English is spoken widely because of the large number of expatriates who live and work in the country.

The UAE has one of the fastest growing economies in the world. The economy has boomed since 2004, one third of which is based on oil. The hospitality, manufacturing and real estate sectors are also major sources of growth in GDP.

The UAE - modernity and tradition, side by side

Long a centre of the pearl trade and an important trading point in the Arabian Gulf, the UAE became a major petroleum power, starting in the 1960s. UAE’S most important natural resources are oil and natural gas. The first commercial shipments were made in 1962, and since then the UAE has become a leading producer of oil, and more recently, gas.

The nation’s modern history was much influenced by His Highness, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the first president of the UAE and ruler of Abu Dhabi from 1966 to 2004. His far-reaching vision and leadership is continued by his son, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the current ruler of Abu Dhabi and president of the UAE.