Economy

With Dubai’s economy growing by 4.6% in 2013, and the emirate posting a GDP of $88.65bn, opportunities in various sectors, including Islamic finance and infrastructure and hospitality development, are drawing the attention of investors. The emirate is building up its reputation as an international centre for Islamic finance and under a new Islamic finance master plan it intends to focus on seven pillars, including finance, halal products and tourism. Meanwhile, Dubai International Airport is currently undergoing a major expansion of its runways that will see it surpass London Heathrow Airport in terms of capacity. The government has also put an increased focus on SME development and growth as it seeks to cultivate a spirit of entrepreneurship.

This chapter contains interviews with Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, UAE Minister of Economy; Hamad Buamim, President & CEO, Dubai Chamber; Lim Hng Kiang, Singapore Minister for Trade and Industry; Le Luong Minh, Secretary-General, Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN); and Donald Trump, Chairman and President, The Trump Organisation.