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With one of the most vibrant economies in the Middle
East, the UAE has served the region well as a model of
stability and resiliency amidst the global economic
downturn. The favorable business environment,
cultivated over many years of strategic planning and
careful implementation, proves right the government’s
wisdom and leadership foresight.
Today, more opportunities continue to emerge from the
highly diversified sectors of the economy. Lessons
learned have only helped formulate improved policies
further enhancing the fundamental benefits enjoyed by
international investors including zero taxation,
minimal barriers to entry, and 100% ownership in the
free zones, among others. Even in the most challenging
times, the country continues to scale the heights of
progress. The World Bank, in its latest report ranks
the UAE as the best performing trade logistics
service-provider in the Gulf region. Businessmen with
acute sense of opportunity can grasp, that this year
offers an ideal time to consider either direct
investment or partnership in the Middle East via UAE.
The ensuing global crisis puts to the test UAE’s core
strengths, consequently displaying the country’s
ability to successfully confront economic storms.
Equally glaring, is the tenacity shown by partners
from the private sector who has risen to the
challenges. I salute such loyal partners in progress
like Global Resources, for their faith in the
government’s long term vision, as they steadfastly
promote the UAE as the region’s best economic hub. In
particular, Global Resources’ continued publication of
the annual Golden Rainbow UAE Freezones Directory has
encouraged more and more international and local
investors to look into the advantages of setting up
business in the country.
On behalf of the UAE government and our people, I wish
to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Global
Resources for yet another outstanding edition of the
UAE Freezones Directory. As it has helped thousands in
the past, I am confident that this book will continue
to serve not only investors, but the whole UAE
business community in general.
Lubna Bint Khalid Al Qasimi,
Minister of Foreign Trade
