← All country profiles

Middle East

United Arab Emirates

A Gulf hub connecting energy wealth with global commerce

Overview

The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates with an economy combining oil and gas with trade, finance, aviation and tourism. Abu Dhabi is a major centre of energy production and investment, while Dubai has developed a substantial international services and logistics economy.

Ports, airports and commercial zones link the federation to markets across Asia, Africa and Europe. Investment in advanced technology and clean energy is part of its diversification agenda, while exposure to global trade, property cycles and the demands of a hot, water-scarce environment remain important considerations.

On the rise

Logistics, financial services and investment in new technologies give the UAE reach beyond hydrocarbons — with deeper local capabilities and sustainable resource use important to long-term resilience.