Abu Dhabi tops list of World's "10 Emerging Business Cities

In its January/February 2006 issue, Middle East Travel described the business and travel infrastructure in Abu Dhabi as among the best in the Middle East. It said the emirate receives more than 46 international airlines that serve many destinations between Europe and the Far East. It also explained the advanced facilities enjoyed by Abu Dhabi, including Zayed Port and Abu Dhabi International Airport that currently undergo massive development to met growing demand in the years to come.

The magazine said Abu Dhabi had adopted an ambitious plan to enhance industrial development as a strategic option to diversify its sources of income and reduce the dependence on oil as a sole revenue generator. It noted that non-oil sectors' share in the GDP had risen by seven per cent annually, and the share is expected to reach Dh 20.9 billion by the end of 2006.

The magazine said the Abu Dhabi government had embarked on major plans to attract local and foreign investments, cooperating with the emirate's Chamber of Commerce and Industry to attract private capitals to participate in the development process.

Middle East Travel anticipated that Abu Dhabi will be one of the most prosperous cities in the world. Other cities that featured in the magazine include Guangdong (China), Hyderabad (India), Capetown (South Africa), Doha (Qatar) and Sao Paulo (Brazil).