UAE

ECONOMY AND GOVERNANCE

The economy of the United Arab
Emirates (or UAE) is the 5th largest
in the Middle East (after
Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Egypt ,and
Iran), with a gross domestic
product (GDP) of US$421 billion
(AED 1.5 trillion) in 2020.
 The UAE economy is heavily reliant on revenues
from petroleum and natural gas, especially in Abu Dhabi. In 2009, more than 85%
of the UAE's economy was based on the oil exports. In 2011, oil exports accounted
for 77% of the UAE's state budget. In recent years, there has been some economic
diversification, particularly in Dubai. Abu Dhabi and other UAE emirates have
remained relatively conservative in their approach to diversification. Dubai has
far smaller oil reserves than its counterparts.
• Tourism is one of the
bigger non-oil sources of
revenue in the UAE. A
massive construction
boom, an expanding
manufacturing base, and
a thriving services sector
are helping the UAE
diversify its economy.
Nationwide, there is
currently $350 billion
worth of
active construction projec
ts.
Outward investment
A investment institutions were created by the
government to promote manage
investments made by the UAE abroad:
Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA)
Abu Dhabi Investment Council (ADIC)
Mubadala Development Company (MDC)
International Petroleum Investment
Company (IPIC)
Dubai World
Dubai International Capital (DIC)
 Real estate

• The development in
the real estate and
infrastructure sectors
during the recent year
has contributed in
making the country a
global touristic
destination. The
contribution of
tourism in the Emirati
GDP increased from
3% in the mid-1990s
to more than 16.5%
by the end of 2010.
• Constitutional federation​
​
​
The United Arab Emirates is
a constitutional
federation established in December
1971. This page provides a
brief about the political system
and government in the UAE.​
Political
identity
The UAE has its own
flag, coat of arms and
national anthem. All
citizens of the UAE
carry the unified
nationality of the
United Arab Emirates,
which is recognised
internationally. The
UAE consists of seven
emirates
• Key developments in the political system
• Over the years, the UAE has taken many steps to develop its
political system, make it more receptive to the needs of the
socio-economic progress of the country and to ensure that that
UAE's population is equipped to cope with the challenges of
global development.
• The UAE's elections of the Federal National Council in 2006 and
the creation of the electoral college were landmark steps
designed to enhance public participation in the UAE political
system.
• Having followed the practice of nominating all its 40 members
between 1972 and 2006, since 2006, 20 members of the FNC
were elected by an electoral college and 20 were nominated by
the rulers of the respective emirates.
• In 2008, the Supreme Council also approved constitutional
amendments to further empower the FNC and increase its scope
of influence and coordination with the Cabinet.
FOREIGN POLICY

• The UAE's foreign policy is based on the belief in the

need for justice in international dealings between
states.
• This includes the necessity of adhering to the
principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of
other countries and the pursuit, whenever possible,
of peaceful resolution of disputes, together with
support for international institutions, such as the
United Nation
• The political system is based on
the Constitution which explains
the main rules of the political and
constitutional organisation of the
country. The Constitution
demonstrates the main purpose
of the establishment of the
federation and its objectives at
the local and regional levels. It
guarantees all UAE citizens equal
rights and opportunities, safety
and security, and social justice.
UAE SOFT POWER COUCIL

• The formation of the UAE Soft Power

Council aims to support the country’s
National Agenda and build the UAE’s
position as a global example of leadership
and excellence.
• It seeks to reinforce the country’s position
and consolidate its values of respect and
appreciation with governments and citizens
across the world.
• Parallel to its economic and military
strength, the UAE’s long-term plan is to
promote a strong coherent international
policy, build diplomatic relationships and
introduce and influence the UAE’s culture,
values, history, knowledge and vision to all.