The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a country known for its breathtaking architectural marvels, luxurious lifestyle, and rich cultural heritage.
From the towering Burj Khalifa to the pristine beaches of Abu Dhabi, the UAE has become a top destination for tourists and expats from all over the world.
But what makes the UAE so special? Is it the oil wealth, the visionary leadership, or the ambitious plans for the future?
In this article, we will explore the various factors that make the UAE a unique and fascinating place to visit, live, and do business.
We will delve into the history, culture, economy, and society of the UAE to understand what sets it apart from other countries in the region and the world.
Join us on this journey to discover the secrets of the UAE’s success and allure.
What Makes UAE So Special?
1. Stunning Architecture
The UAE is known for its impressive architecture, with some of the world’s most iconic buildings in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, dominates the Dubai skyline, while the Burj Al Arab, the world’s most luxurious hotel, is a masterpiece of design and engineering.
Other notable buildings include the Emirates Towers, the Dubai Mall, and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques.
2. High Standard of Living
The UAE offers its residents and visitors a high standard of living and quality of life.
The country has world-class healthcare facilities, including the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, and a thriving education system that attracts students worldwide.
The infrastructure is also excellent, with modern transportation networks, advanced telecommunication systems, and state-of-the-art buildings and facilities.
3. Strong Economy
The UAE has a strong and stable economy driven by its abundant natural resources, strategic location, and business-friendly policies.
The country is a major player in the global economy, focusing on industries such as oil and gas, tourism, and real estate.
The UAE is home to many multinational corporations, and its ports and airports are important hubs for trade and commerce.
4. Rich Culture and Heritage
Despite its rapid modernization, the UAE has managed to preserve its cultural heritage and traditions.
The country offers a rich tapestry of history, art, and culture that is unique and captivating.
Visitors can explore traditional souks, watch camel races, and attend cultural festivals such as the Dubai Shopping Festival and the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.
5. Visionary Leadership
The UAE’s success is also attributed to its visionary leadership, which has steered the country toward a brighter future.
The rulers of the UAE have demonstrated a remarkable ability to embrace innovation, sustainability, and social progress, earning the UAE a reputation as a forward-thinking and progressive nation.
Several visionary leaders have contributed to the success of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over the past few decades.
Some of the prominent names include:
Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan – The UAE’s founding father and the country’s first President.
Sheikh Zayed played a crucial role in the UAE’s development, particularly in social welfare, education, and environmental conservation.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum – The UAE’s Vice President and Prime Minister and the Ruler of Dubai.
Sheikh Mohammed is known for his progressive and forward-thinking approach to governance, particularly in economic development, innovation, and sustainability.
Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan – The UAE’s current President and Sheik Zayed’s son.
Sheikh Khalifa has continued his father’s legacy by promoting social welfare, environmental conservation, and economic diversification.
6. Tax-Free Living
One of the main tax privileges offered in the UAE is tax-free living for individuals.
Unlike many other countries, the UAE does not impose income tax on its residents.
This means individuals can enjoy 100% of their income without paying taxes.
The UAE also has no wealth, capital gains, or inheritance tax.
7. Low Corporate Taxes
In addition to tax-free living, the UAE also provides significant tax privileges to businesses.
The corporate tax rate in the UAE is very low, with most businesses paying only 5% tax on their profits.
Additionally, there is no value-added tax (VAT) in the UAE for many goods and services, which makes the country an attractive destination for businesses.
What Are Some of the Must-see Attractions in the UAE?
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is home to many attractions, from stunning natural landscapes to world-class shopping and entertainment venues.
Some of the must-see attractions in the UAE include:
Burj Khalifa: The tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai offers incredible city views from observation decks.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Located in Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate designs.
Dubai Mall: One of the largest shopping malls in the world, the Dubai Mall is home to hundreds of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, including an indoor theme park, an aquarium, and an ice rink.
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: This theme park is dedicated to the famous Italian car brand and features high-speed rides, racing simulators, and interactive exhibits.
Palm Jumeirah – This artificial island off the coast of Dubai is shaped like a palm tree and is home to luxury hotels, restaurants, and residences.
How Is the Country Working to Address Environmental Challenges?
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made sustainability a key priority in its development plans, recognizing the importance of protecting the environment and promoting sustainable practices.
The country has taken several steps to address environmental challenges, including:
Renewable Energy
The UAE has made significant investments in renewable energy, to derive 44% of its energy from renewable sources by 2050.
The country is home to the world’s largest single-site solar park and is exploring other renewable sources, such as wind and hydrogen.
Sustainable Cities
The UAE is investing in developing sustainable cities, such as Masdar City in Abu Dhabi, designed to be a zero-carbon city powered entirely by renewable energy.
The country is also exploring sustainable urban design and green infrastructure to reduce the environmental impact of cities.
Water Conservation
The UAE is a desert country with limited freshwater resources, so it has implemented several water conservation measures.
This includes investments in desalination technology, wastewater treatment, and using treated wastewater for irrigation.
Waste Management
The UAE has implemented comprehensive waste management systems, including recycling programs and waste-to-energy projects, to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.
Biodiversity Conservation
The UAE is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, and the country has implemented measures to protect and conserve its biodiversity.
This includes establishing protected areas, wildlife conservation programs, and initiatives to reduce the impact of human activity on natural habitats.
The UAE is working to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development through these and other initiatives.
The country recognizes that sustainability is essential for its citizens’ well-being, the environment’s health, and the long-term success of its economy.
Reference
Harn, J. (n.d.). 11 Things That Make Dubai Truly Unique. Culture Trip. https://middle-east/united-arab-emirates/articles/11-things-that-make-dubai-truly-unique/
10 Things You Should Know About the UAE. (2019, August 9). US News & World Report. https://www.usnews.com/news/best-countries/articles/2019-08-09/10-interesting-facts-about-the-united-arab-emirates
“10 reasons why The UAE is the best country in the world”. (n.d.). “10 Reasons Why the UAE Is the Best Country in the World.” https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/10-reasons-why-uae-best-country-world-samer
https://www.thrillophilia.com/. (2014, November 18). https://www.thrillophilia.com/. https://www.thrillophilia.com/destinations/uae/places-to-visit
