Abu Dhabi's twin strategy of privatisation and diversification is stimulating strong growth says Oxford Business Group

Spear heading the research for the second authoritative business annual on the emirate, 'Abu Dhabi 2007', Editorial Manager, Patrick Wrigley said: "A number of concrete steps have been taken in the last few years to encourage competition and the emphasis on industrial diversification through the establishment of free zones is a prime example of Abu Dhabi's vision for the future".

The trend towards privatisation is evident according to Wrigley, with a focus on utilities, healthcare and education. "The private sector not only offers solutions to the current economic expansion, but also provides a catalyst for further growth and development" he said. Real estate and manufacturing are also seen as sectors which offer considerable growth potential with significant public and private investment.

The second book follows on from the highly successful, inaugural 'Emerging
Abu Dhabi' 2006 and increasing demand for timely, accurate analysis necessitates the ongoing publication of new research that brings the latest trends and developments to an extensive base of business subscribers.

Produced in cooperation with the Executive Affairs Authority of the Government of Abu Dhabi, 'Abu Dhabi 2007' will provide comprehensive overviews and analysis of the emirate's political and macroeconomic environment, as well as trends in all the major economic sectors, including banking, capital markets, insurance, I.T. telecoms, real estate, construction, tourism, energy and media.

Written by a team of international analysts based on the ground for six months, the 200-page research-based book is widely anticipated with forward subscriptions up 10% on last year's inaugral edition and a projected world wide distribution of over 75,000.

According to Tatjana Marinko, OBG's Abu Dhabi Manager:

"The second edition will be an extensive, independent, unbiased and accurate economic report on the Emirate with the quality and range of interviewees making 'Abu Dhabi 2007' the most authoritative economic assessment of the emirate available to date."

'Abu Dhabi 2007' will be available in the second quarter of next year.