OBG talks to Mahmood Ebraheem Al Mahmood, CEO, Al Qudra Holding

Mahmood Ebraheem Al Mahmood said that the plan had highlighted the important part that the private sector would play in ensuring a balance is found between improving efficiency and meeting social responsibility as the government looks to secure long-term sustainable economic growth.

In an exclusive interview with Oxford Business Group (OBG), global publishing, research and consultancy firm, Al Mahmood, said:

"When you look at everything we talk about, one way or another it comes back to the 2030 Plan. As a government they are saying 'we want to deliver and the private sector is invited to play an important role'."

The interview will feature in The Report: Abu Dhabi 2009, the most comprehensive and accurate review of the Emirate's economy available, which is soon to be published by OBG. Rated as the premier source of information for foreign direct investment into the emirate's economy, it will be a vital guide to the many facets of Abu Dhabi, including its macroeconomics, infrastructure, political landscape, banking and sectoral developments.

The Report: Abu Dhabi 2009 has been produced by a team of OBG analysts based in Abu Dhabi who conducted some two hundred interviews with leading political and economic figures. Al Mahmood is one of the leading business figures interviewed in The Report: Abu Dhabi 2009, where the full version of his interview will appear.

Al Mahmood stressed that within its role of leading development, the private sector would be careful to promote a geographical balance.

"As investors working with the government, we have to have some checks and balances, meaning we cannot neglect some areas," he said.

Al Mahmood warned of the pitfalls of focusing solely on Abu Dhabi City, which, he said, could lead to mass migration of people and investments there.

He also highlighted the importance of striking a balance between supply and demand as both the private sector and government explore ways of improving labour market efficiency and attracting investors.

"In the process, a certain workforce is needed and a certain talent is required. So our laws and regulations are at a level that is not overwhelming for investors but does not neglect the rights of the workforce," he said.

Al Mahmood is optimistic that the focus which the government is giving to Abu Dhabi's infrastructure projects will help the economy to weather any fall-out from the global financial crisis.

"The infrastructure investment stimulus is there and no projects have been cancelled. There are also very interesting initiatives coming up in both health care and education, and all of it is coming on-line with no delays," he said.