Al Ain
From The Report: Abu Dhabi 2014
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The government has overseen Al Ain’s development in line with the policies laid out by the current ruling family of Abu Dhabi, which is committed to maintaining the traditional character of their ancestral home. Al Ain’s heritage and the area’s many natural attractions have made it a popular tourist destination for Emiratis and foreigners alike. Under Plan Al Ain, Jebel Hafeet and the surrounding Hajjar Mountains will be given national park status, with the goal of protecting the area from development and making it more accessible to visitors. The region is expected to attract considerable and sustained investment from both domestic and foreign investors, and a wide variety of industries will likely benefit from the anticipated increase in economic activity.

Articles from this Chapter

Overview

Striking a balance: Pursuing sustainable development while preserving the region’s heritage and traditional character
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Located 160 km to the east of Abu Dhabi City, in the centre of a large oasis that has been inhabited for thousands of years, the “garden city” of Al Ain is known for its long history and traditional character. Unlike the gleaming towers of the capital, Al Ain is made up mostly of low-rise buildings in a traditional Arab style. The birthplace of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the UAE, the city is home to a number of important historical and cultural sites. The government has…

Analysis

Focus on manufacturing: New industrial activity to boost local employment and revenues
OBG
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As of mid-2013 the city of Al Ain, Abu Dhabi’s second-largest urban area, was in the early stages of an industrialisation drive that could completely transform the local economy. Under Plan Al Ain 2030 and the government’s long-term development strategy, the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, the city is slated to become a regional centre for aerospace, defence and agribusiness, among other activities. As well as contributing to economic diversification, a key objective is to create jobs for the…