UAE: Abu Dhabi

At present, some of the world’s largest steel and aluminium outfits are no longer based in Europe, North America or Asia, but in the UAE. This is the result of regional economic dynamism and careful long-term planning by the UAE’s leadership, with the government of Abu Dhabi playing an essential part in that strategic thinking. Indeed, the Abu...

When Abu Dhabi’s government looked at the future course of the economy’s development, preparatory to publishing the emirate’s long-term master plan, Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, one area they were keen to see expand exponentially was petrochemicals.

Although it has risen to become a strong contributor to GDP and diversification over the past 15 years, Abu Dhabi’s real estate sector is feeling the pressures of an economic slowdown, brought on by a period of depressed oil prices and spending cuts that have affected markets across every property segment.

Renewed demand for more affordable housing in Abu Dhabi has come about as a downward readjustment of housing allowances has strained rents in the high-end residential sector. Developers are now shifting their strategies to include new mid-market developments. This has enabled double-digit returns on rental yields for some, making the mid-...

As Abu Dhabi accelerates efforts to diversify its economy away from a reliance on hydrocarbons, development of Al Maryah Island has become a top priority for real estate and construction. An international financial free zone and mixed-use real estate development, the island is expected to become a major financial and business district,...

Many of Abu Dhabi’s light and heavy industrial businesses are located in its specialised economic zones (SEZs), which have proven popular because of the range of attractive benefits they offer. Although the benefits may vary from zone to zone, in general they include the possibility of 100% foreign ownership, something not currently possible...