There are three things that we know about the United Arab Emirates, and that is it's remarkable growth and expansion over the past 25-years, it's a great place to do business, whether as a startup or as an established international company, and, it's a great destination for those seeking sun, sea, and wonderful cultural experiences that many people the world over get to appreciate and enjoy.
Dubai of course plays an integral role in bringing a substantial number of visitors to the UAE, and as the country has exponentially grown, we've seen an increase in demand for visitors to the region, but we know all too well that the luxury and phenomenon of Dubai is not the only Emirate that people are able to enjoy. There is so much to experience and appreciate in the UAE, and it's not just about the hot climate, white sandy beaches, and clear warm water, if you visit and truly explore the region, then you'll fully get it.
Some will say that the United Arab Emirates is simply a city in a desert where many can say they've been to, or that it is like Las Vegas in terms of glitz and luxury, but we can assure you, Las Vegas it is not, or is it even a close comparison. There is just a different feel to the UAE, a different vibe that is relaxed and friendly, and the lack of street crime is a huge bonus when it comes to people looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of home life and feel safe. Very few places around the world can offer such a luxury.
Of course there are rules, there are things that you shouldn't do or even say, but nobody should be put off by this. It's an Islamic country yes, but it is one that welcomes people from the world over, and in the main it is a relationship that very much works both ways. If you're respectful of the culture and truly embrace your environment, then you'll enjoy every moment, and if you want to do business ethically and professionally, then you'll capture opportunities, and this is exactly how it should be.
No, the UAE is not perfect regardless of those who say it is, there has been a negative focus on migrant workers and, with many coming from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Philippines, and Nepal, some have said that almost all are underpaid, overworked, and live in appalling conditions. This has shed a significant negative focus on the UAE Government, and, as migrant workers are not allowed to join trade unions or go on strike, those who do strike may risk prison and deportation, and this explains why numerous human rights organizations have involved themselves as they take on countless cases.
Undeterred by the above issues, the level of tourism and growth of foreign business interests has been significant over the last 10-years especially. In fact, the United Arab Emirates is currently rated as the most visited tourist destination in the world, and it would come as little surprise if those who are first time visitors, return a second time. For those in business, of course opportunity can be had almost anywhere in the world, but with its geographic location and ease of access, as well as it being a gateway to other parts of The Middle East, Europe, Africa, and Asia, the opportunity for companies to grow is extremely appealing.
Since its independence in 1971, the UAE's economy has grown by nearly 231 times to 1.45 trillion AED in 2013. The non-oil trade has grown to 1.2 trillion AED, a growth by around 28 times from 1981 to 2012. Supported by the world's seventh-largest oil reserves and aided by prudent investments coupled with a resolute commitment to economic liberalism and strong governmental oversight, the UAE has witnessed its real GDP increase by more than three times over the past four decades. Presently, the UAE is among the wealthiest countries globally, with GDP per capita nearly 80% higher than the OECD average.
All of this of course is helped by the highly admired vision of two heads of the ruling families, with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and also Ruler of Dubai. Both have played integral roles in establishing the UAE as a dominant global force and with strong resources and capabilities, they have well and truly put the country on the map. They are not alone though and, along with the ruling families of Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah, and Quwain, which, along with Abu and Dubai, make up the seven Emirates who are aligned in running a great country.
The UAE has been and continues to be an important part of TS Eight since our inception, and it also plays its part to some of our valued clients, both recreationally and professionally. Through our network and knowledge of the region, we can provide key support that many are unable to offer during travel to the UAE. Working closely with our clients to understand their unique needs, we know what to recommend in terms of luxury accommodation, fine dining, as well as activities that they may be interested in. We can advise on protocols and offer accurate cultural awareness, and we are able to tap into an exclusive network that primarily supports Ultra High Net Worth, Diplomatic, as well as members of Royalty.
Whether our clients are seeking a private tour or a specific type of suite, are looking for a vetted professional driver and luxury vehicle or require support with private aviation, we go above and beyond for those who may be visiting the region. We are also able to assist our business clients with high level meetings with Government level individuals, and, as we have participated in some of these meetings over the years and built exceptional relationships, we know who to speak with on behalf of our clients once they request our support or to ask for our help in facilitating specific meetings or introductions.
One thing you can't do in the UAE is just turn up and expect that doors will open. Relationship building is important especially for Emiratis, and they are particularly big on respect, integrity, and loyalty. These are traits that important the world over of course, but if you want to do business with esteemed Emirati leaders, then you'll need to follow the protocols required to get in the door, and understand exactly what you need to do once you get in that door and many unfortunately do not adhere to this.
Our experience over the years in the United Arab Emirates has been vast and varied; opening doors and arranging meetings, booking fine dining and sourcing luxury accommodation, providing a vetted driver and vehicle, selecting a golf course and a highly regarded pro partner, meeting with helicopter companies, handling the logistics for a business delegation at Formula one in Abu Dhabi, and then there was the time one of our Founders took the actor Will Smith, to Dubai for his first of many visits. As we said, vast and varied, but it is these experiences and the network we've established, that enable us to be viewed as a go to partner.
TS Eight's Co-Founders and Managing Partners, Brother's Glen and Gary Burton, the United Arab Emirates has been a special place for them over the past 10-years especially, though for Glen his time there goes back to 2000 when he began working in a personal security capacity for His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and also Ruler of Dubai. Although that was a long time ago, Glen knows better than anyone of the unique vision that Sheikh Mohammed had, and more so in recent years, has been able to witness the execution and development of it first-hand.
Glen and Gary have been able to enjoy frequent visits to the UAE both separately and together, recreationally and professionally, and often joined by their families, they continue to build on the established relationships they have in the country and are always keen to form new ones, relationships that are long lasting, impactful and meaningful, and one's that also help our clients at TS Eight. The UAE is indeed a region that we can offer key support in, and both Gary and Glen have created a vision that like Sheikh Mohammed, is one that is powerful and meaningful to those who put their trust in us and our experience.
If you are interested in learning more about travel to the United Arab Emirates or would like our support, please reach out to us and we would be more than happy to schedule a call with you.
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(+971) (0) 52 726 4101 (Abu Dhabi). We are a consulting, project management, and logistics coordination company that specializes in providing exclusive global support for high value people and Fortune 100 companies and we would be delighted to speak with you further about how we can help you, your family, or your company.
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