UAE: Abu Dhabi

Like the majority of stock markets around the world, the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) has endured an element of uncertainty since the onset of the global financial crisis. However, with the index on an 11-week high, and positive trading signals for the first half of the year, the capital's bourse can look to the future with a degree of optimism.

Dubai's transport sector is about to enter a new era, with the launch of the initial stage of the world's largest fully automated metro system scheduled for early September.

In order to meet the housing needs of local residents, Abu Dhabi's government and developers are working together to deliver a number of projects in the capital.

While Abu Dhabi continues to buttress its credentials as an aspiring leader in green technologies with new investments, the emirate is already beginning to reap the benefits of previous similar policies and is hoping that initial successes will pave the way for further renewable energy projects.

OBG talks to Duncan Hedditch, CEO, Emirates Aluminium (EMAL)

Looking to capitalise on early signs of a banking recovery emerging in the UAE, the Central Bank has turned its attention to improving corporate governance within commercial banks in a bid to further boost confidence in the sector.