While many observers seem to be preoccupied with the future of Dubai and the UAE, it might be prudent to draw their attention to where the country actually stands today. The credit crunch, in fact, serves as a perfect opportunity for us to show the world that our ambitions were well placed and that many of the developments undertaken were not only very well timed but, it could even be argued, may even have been rather restrained. Read more »
The National
‘Tournalists’ who catch the Dubai bashing syndrome
Since Dubai has taken a front seat in the international limelight, we in the UAE have grown used to welcoming journalists from across the world. Recently, though, there has been a slew of reporters coming hoping to uncover a “dark side”. Thankfully, the UAE has largely ignored this negative campaign and has continued with its development, looking towards the future. Read more »
Presidents who share a motto: ‘Till death do us part’
There is a worrying addiction displayed by leaders of Arab republics who seem to continue pursuing perpetual tenures in their presidencies. Having assumed the helm of power and absolute authority that comes with the presidency, it seems to be difficult for Arab republic leaders to go back to a civilian life and they instead opt to perpetually extend their tenure. Indeed, it would be wise to remind such presidents that power is elusive and impermanent. Read more »
The Arnie factor: why America is far from perfect
The United States has spent most of the new century trying to export its democracy, sometimes by violent means. This democracy, though, is far from ideal. Read more »
Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak – the Emirati Sheikh of Hearts
In this article, Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi discusses the many positive impacts that Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak, or the “Emirati Sheikh of Hearts,” has contributed to the UAE, as well as to Sultan personally. Read more »
It’s not enough for the UAE just to recognise Kosovo
This month the United Arab Emirates became the first Arab state to recognise Kosovo, the newest country in the world. It would be wrong of the UAE, the US, Europe and the rest of the civilised world to neglect Kosovo once again, after they encouraged and endorsed its independence. Extremism knows no global financial crisis; it breeds in the unlikeliest of places, and where better than in the bosom of Europe? Read more »