Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a federation of seven emirates located in the Persian Gulf region. The emirates include Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Quwain, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah. Abu Dhabi is the largest emirate in terms of land area and plays a central role in the country's economy and politics.
The region has been inhabited for thousands of years by Bedouin tribes, primarily relying on livestock, fishing, and date farming. Before the discovery of oil, the emirates were known for maritime trade and pearl diving, exporting pearls to India and Europe. The emirates came under British influence in the 19th century, mainly to protect maritime routes.
In 1971, after the British withdrawal, the emirates formed a federation under the leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, regarded as the founding father of the UAE.
Abu Dhabi holds approximately 90% of the UAE’s oil reserves, making it the economic engine of the country.
Although oil remains dominant, Abu Dhabi is heavily investing in diversification, particularly in:
- Technology and industries: Free zones designed to attract international businesses such as Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
- Tourism: Projects such as Saadiyat Island with attractions like the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, the Zayed National Museum, the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi.
- Renewable energy: Development of Masdar City, an eco-friendly city.In 2023, the total
In 2023, non-oil GDP was:
AED 1.43 trillion at current prices, achieving a growth rate of 9.9 per cent since 2022
AED 1.25 trillion at constant prices, reflecting a 6.2 per cent growth compared to 2022.
The UAE does not levy income tax on individuals. However, it levies 5 per cent value added Tax as well as excise tax on specific goods and corporate tax on the net income or profit of corporations.
The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) is one of the largest sovereign wealth funds globally, managing assets estimated in the hundreds of billions of dollars.
Approximately 10 million people live in the UAE, with 1.5 million in Abu Dhabi (2023 figures).
Nearly 85% of the UAE's population consists of expatriates, mainly from South Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and other regions.
Abu Dhabi is renowned for its ambitious projects, such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Etihad Towers, the Aldar Headquarters, Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
The city benefits from modern highways and a world-class international airport.
The UAE plays a significant role in the Gulf region and beyond, with strategic alliances, particularly with the United States and Europe.
The Arab Emirati Dirham (AED) is pegged to the US dollar (USD). 1 USD = AED 3.6725.
The UAE passport holds the 1st position globally.
The UAE follows a moderate foreign policy that reinforces balanced relationships with the international community. It adheres to the principles of peaceful co-existence, mutual respect and non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries.
The UAE is a leading player in the global campaign against human trafficking, terrorism and in maintaining human rights.
Islam is the official religion in the UAE. Expatriate residents practice their respective religions by virtue of the UAE’s policy of tolerance and co-existence, and religious inclusion.
The UAE hosts major events such as Expo 2020 in Dubai (postponed to 2021 due to COVID-19) and actively participates in UN initiatives.
With modern infrastructure and iconic attractions, the UAE attracts millions of tourists annually.