Dubai, Qatar, and the Gulf Emirates' uncertain path to the future
Notes internacionals CIDOB, núm. 34
Dr. Emma Hooper, Associated Researcher at CIDOB
Date of publication: 06/2011
The image of Dubai as a consumer paradise has taken a denting over the
past two years - not just because of the financial crisis. Whilst the
country has always stood out as a bastion of liberalism within the
region, there are signs that it is not entirely untouched by regional
reactions to the nascent Arab democratic movements. These include strong
action over civil society groups speaking up for civil liberties and
rights, a new competitiveness over regional pre-eminence between the
three strongest emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Qatar; and the stance
taken by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) over the Arab Spring.
As a liberal outpost in a conservative region, Dubai has historically
prospered from its neighbours’ misfortunes. From Persian traders at the
turn of the 20th century, to the Iran-Iraq war, and the aftermath of
September 11, money has flowed into Dubai. Commerce, tourism, ship
repairs, a booming property sector and now, a new wave of instability
have all provided it with another period of opportunity.
However, there are indications that the price paid to Abu Dhabi for the
2009 financial bailout involves more than just money. The financial
picture seems to be an optimistic one. For civil liberties and the
city-state’s future growth and development, there are questions to be
answered about what type of future path Dubai wishes to tread. Will it
be able to carve its own path, or will it stand behind the forces of
conservatism?
(...)
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