Overseas Pakistani Friends

By Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan

Most recently the 18th international conference was held titled “The Future of Warfare in the 21st Century” at the Emirates Center of Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR). It was attended by a large number of researchers, academicians, experts of informational technology and the last but not the least renowned strategists. It was well planned and well-staged. Even the level of participation of the VIPS, guests and media was healthy and productive.

The conference comprised four sessions, during which 12 research papers were presented by prominent experts, intellectuals, researchers and officials from the UAE, the Gulf region and the rest of the world. The said conference offered a proper forum to exchange ideas and enrich discussions among experts and specialists on all the important subjects and drew a clearer vision about its limits and direction, and to highlight future options and alternatives.

The dawn of information technology has already brought about a revolution in the military and defense industries around the globe. The advanced technological revolution has been emerged into a new reality that altered previously recognized concepts of wars and armies, whereby asymmetrical warfare dominated traditional forms of conflict between adversaries. The technological evolution requires the provision of electronic warfare units in many of the world’s armies, where their role includes maintaining internal civil security and stability. Such technology advances have had implications for the quality and form of naval, air and land-based weapons, whether defensive or offensive. During two days of the said conferences experts, strategists and speakers highlighted the importance of informational technology, intelligence sharing, proper utilization of human resources, training, military and public cooperation and coexistence along with the role of private companies in the battle fields.

It was held under the patronage of H.H. General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces and President of the centre, the two-day conference was inaugurated in the presence of diplomats and a select group of researchers, security experts and media persons. The 18th Annual Conference of Emirates Centre for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR) called for international efforts to tackle terrorism, which remains one of the most prominent future challenges threatening global security and stability.

Dr. Jamal Al Suwaidi Director-General of the ECSSR thoroughly discussed the each and every aspect of the future of warfare in the 21st century in his welcome speech. He mentioned various state and non-state actors. He highlighted the growing role of information technology within traditional warfare; and the diminishing role of geography as wars are now waged in trans-border dimensions. He termed information technology crucial for the future wars. He predicted the enhanced role of informatics within traditional combat theories in naval, land and air services, and their expanded role in managing battles, decision-making and command and control mechanisms in the years to come. He rightly pinpointed the diminishing role of geography since wars are conducted across transnational spaces. He also thoroughly discussed the diminishing role of the human factor and the enhanced role of technological equipment and computer systems. According to him, margin of maneuverability and mobility and the enhanced impact and attack effectiveness through novel combat elements such as cyber warfare, which is completely different from traditional combat would be greatly affected by the emerging mix of information technologies.

He highlighted the importance of accuracy, efficacy and speed of the information infrastructures to counter the cyber-attacks on the capacities of states, command and control systems of communications and banks, financial markets, oil companies, etc. Cyber threats are the one of the leading challenges facing the national security of states in the 21st century, and the emergence of protection of state cyber space as one of the security and military priorities, he added. He accentuated the necessity of enhancing international cooperation to protect trade, economies and intellectual property in encountering current and anticipated cyber challenges. He elaborated that many researchers are increasingly convinced that cyber combatants have become a vital element within the armies of the 21st century. It explains the record increase in the cyber security allocations of many countries in spite of the reductions in military budgets in the last few years.

He identified the growing importance of deployment of small light forces with significant destructive and operational capacities to deal with sudden crises. He talked about the emergence of different patterns of challenges as a result of non-conventional security environments which would enhance the importance of understanding the present situation and information collection and analysis as a prime priority in field operational theaters, with the addition of the cyber dimension to the prevailing traditional military concepts and theories. He labeled terrorism as one of the main challenges threatening global security, since the existing counter-terrorism strategies are still partial and limited. Eliminating the roots of terrorism requires pragmatic policy to tackle the issues such as poverty, illiteracy and underdevelopment he added. He was of the view that ideological and political issues would be key drivers for the future terrorist organizations in which the e-social networks would be optimally utilized at their virtual centers for directing their operations. Easy and smooth supplies of energy and trade would be badly hit by the terrorists in the future.

Talking about the emerging geo-political and geo-strategic scenarios in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and MENA, he said there should be spirits of cooperation, coordination along with strong political commitment among the regional countries. Cyber threat is a potential security challenge he elaborated. UAE should play the key role to enhance awareness of “Internet Sovereignty” in the region since it is a leading country adapting to the digital age, knowledge economy, innovation, and IT technologies.

The panels of the first day was comprised of an inaugural session launched by H.E. Dr. Jamal Sanad Al-Suwaidi, Director-General of the ECSSR, who delivered the welcoming remarks, followed by the keynote address of H.E. Michèle Allot-Marie, former Minister of Defense and Foreign Affairs, Republic of France.

Panel I “Contemporary Threats and the Changing Nature of Warfare”

Chaired By Designation Research Papers
H.E. Saif Sultan Al-Aryani Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for National Security, UAE
Dr. Austin Long Assistant Professor at the School of International and Public Affairs and Member of the Arnold A. Saltzman Institute of War and Peace Studies, Columbia University, USA Asymmetrical Warfare and International Terrorism.
John Bassett OBE Associate Fellow, Cyber Security, Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), UK Cyber Warfare: Offensive and Defensive.’
Dr. Christopher Kinsey Reader in Business and International Security, King’s College London, and Defense Studies Department, Joint Services Command and Staff College, UK The Rise of the Contractor in 21st Century Warfare.

The first day covered discussions of the changing nature of warfare and the new challenges facing national security such as terrorism and electronic warfare. The topic of innovation in the defense industry and the future role of technology in military use were also discussed. Furthermore, on the first day of the conference, discussions were held on the changing nature of warfare and the new challenges facing national security such as terrorism and electronic warfare. It was very interactive session which diagnosed different complicated aspects of the said subject. All the speakers talked highly about the infusion of information technology in warfare in the 21st Century.

Michele Alliot-Marie, former French Minister of Defence and Foreign Affairs, in her key-note address praised the UAE leadership and the country’s peaceful approach in dealing with international affairs based on the principles of justice and respect for all. She pointed out that the UAE plays a vital role in fighting various forms of terrorism and stressed that technological innovation is crucial for any country in counter-terrorism efforts, especially cyber-attacks which pose a threat to national security as well as information security. She mentioned the importance of leadership, conflict resolution, crisis management and human resource management in the future. She also stressed the importance of information technology and intelligence sharing to counter the various threats of terrorism.

All the speakers jointly pinpointed that cyber-warfare and the rapid development and dissemination of cyber weapons threatens to far outstrip international efforts to secure cyberspace as a domain for all. John Basset, Associate Fellow, Cyber Security, Royal United Services Institute, UK said “these cyber weapons are all too often used without regard to international law and international norms. There is a real risk that unrestricted offensive cyber operations will poison and corrode wider international relations”.

Bassett said the way in which cyber-warfare is employed can range from sophisticated operations to the common kinds of hacking techniques employed by individual users of the internet. “Securing information technologies from cyber-attack requires a range of measures to ensure that operations systems are secure, that equipment is not vulnerable to hacking from external sources, and that emergency responses to protect systems from attack are effective and easily activated,” Bassett said.

He argued guaranteeing cyber-security requires a holistic approach base on the cooperation of all concerned public and private agencies. “There are several reasons why governments would want to establish effective international norms for cyber-security: to promote a rules-based approach to global problem-solving; to ensure that international norms are representative, balanced and effective and to enhance operational effectiveness, for example by sharing situational awareness information to improve network defence. Bassett said cyber-warfare and the development of related weapons might provide opportunities for agreement in the areas of arms control and shared operational effectiveness.

“At present, the attacker has the edge in cyber-warfare. This is not because the attacker has a technological advantage; it is rather that the defenders do not have their defences properly organised.”

Bassett sees that potential areas for cooperation may include: information-sharing to gain improved situational awareness for network defence for example within an alliance; evolution of a joint approach to concepts and doctrine; and better crisis management capability and resilience arrangements across security and regional alliances. Defeating the threat of cyber-attack in the future will require both a full understanding of the technologies involved and an understanding of how human nature affects the ways in which individuals seek to use technology and exploit the weaknesses of others.

Panel II “Innovation in the Defense Industry: Future Military Technology”

Chaired By Designation Research Papers
Major General (Staff) Pilot Rashad Mohamed Salem Al-Saadi Commandant of the National Defence College, UAE
Peter Singer Director of the Center for 21st Century Security and Intelligence, USA Next War: Key Trends Shaping the Future of War.
Riad Kahwaji Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Institute for Near East and Gulf Military Analysis (INEGMA), UAE Command and Control: Evolution and Requirements for Modern Arab Militaries.’
Prof. Wesley K. Wark Munk School of Global Affairs, University of Toronto, Canada Information and Intelligence in the 21st Century.’

All the speakers highlighted the importance of command and control systems in the future of warfare in the 21st century. Peter Singer briefed about the evolutionary expansion and different development stages in the warfare patterns along with weaponry. He outlined the different important tasks or policies needed to be implemented in the modern arena.

Riad Kahwaji explained the trends in the command and control systems in the globe and how the Arab militaries could adapt to it. The subject was interesting and interactive. It outlined the multidimensional benefits of having better command and control systems. It would speed-up response time. It would guarantee peace and stability in the country, he added. He emphasized the need to have communication experts, computer strategists and the last but not the least, strong political commitment to institutionalize the command and control systems in the Arab Militaries.

Prof. Wesley K. Wark displayed an interesting presentation with a mild mode. He termed financial intelligence, economic intelligence and of course human intelligence as the things to remain even in the future. He suggested that digital divide should be discourage and there should be greater informational pool in the region and the world.

The second day’s discussions included political and civil aspects affecting the future of warfare such as relations between civil and military institutions, the future role of armies in war prevention, peacekeeping, and the close and strategic relationship between arms manufacturers and military institutions. The proceedings of the conference concluded with a session on the future of warfare and stability in the Middle East, which included topics related to the region such as the purchase of weapons, nuclear weapons proliferation, and the risks facing the region’s security.

Panel III “Political and Civilian Impacts on the Future of Warfare”

Chaired By Designation Research Papers
Major General (Ret.) Khaled Abdullah Al-Bu-Ainnain Former Commander of the UAE Air Force and Air Defense, President of the Institute for Near East and Gulf Military Analysis (INEGMA), UAE
Dr. Alan Ryan Executive Director of the Australian Civil–Military Center, Australia Future Trends in Civil-Military Relations.’
Richard Gowan Associate Director for Crisis Diplomacy and Peace Operations at the Center on International Cooperation, NYU, UAE. War Prevention and Peacekeeping
Dr. Henrik Heidenkamp Research Fellow, Defence, Industries and Society, Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), United Kingdom The Private Sector’s Role in Defence: Challenges and Opportunities for Governments and Industry.

In his well prepared speech Richard Gowan, associate director for Crisis Diplomacy and Peace Operations at the New York University Centre on International Cooperation, USA said that UN needed helicopters and combat aircraft from the UAE in its peacekeeping missions. The UAE’s soft power and well-trained military can fill gaps in the United Nations peace-keeping missions around the world. “A regional power such as the UAE has the capacity to fill gaps in the United nations peace-keeping missions around the world and especially in Syria he added. He said the UAE military’s experience in Afghanistan were a valuable asset in conducting peacekeeping operations, which require the effective management of sophisticated military and development policies across a range of multi-national actors.

He stressed the need to have people having diversified expertise and professions to tackle the emerging geo-political and geo-strategic issues in the region and around the globe. United Nations badly needed experts of conflict resolution, crisis management, strategists, political scientists, personnel of global media and the last but not the least, cultural diversification oriented people from all of the world and especially dedicated people from this region in order to make the organization more vibrant and independent. He categorically said no to infantry while delivering his speech. He highlighted the success stories of the UN interventions which have stabilised Sierra Leone, Liberia and Haiti. The UN has played an important role in managing the difficult post-conflict situation in Libya after the fall of the Muammar Gaddafi regime. He was of the opinion that peacekeeping forces would also be required in Somalia, both to contain the threat of piracy and to help with the reconstruction of the country.

He ironically admitted some mistakes and failures of the UN which was highly appreciated by the participants. He pinpointed that the UN lacked helicopters and other aircraft, combat aircraft even Special Forces. He acknowledged the need of overhauling in the UN technology and logistics departments. UN has struggled to manage the flow of refugees into Turkey, Lebanon and Jordan he added.

He confessed that the crises in Libya, Mali and Syria have highlighted the limitations of international crises management. In each case, diplomats and international officials responded to the first signs of conflict with a mixture of caution and confusion, allowing violence to escalate.
He explained that while a NATO-led coalition eventually responded to the deteriorating situation in Libya with significant force, the campaign was hampered by gaps between the European military capabilities. The coalition left the post-conflict peace building to a small UN mission, which was able to facilitate credible elections, but could not prevent southern Libya slipping into chaos.

He further shared that a similar series of events is now unfolding in Mali, where the French intervention has finally brought an escalating crisis under control, but the transition to a UN-led peacekeeping force has been confused. The situation in Syria is far worse. A series of diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict have failed, in part because of tensions between Russia and the West. “Syria didn’t truly have a peacekeeping force, but a war watching one,” stressed Gowan. There may not been any effective UN intervention in Syria yet, but he claimed the organisation is ready to go back in. He wished the greater participatory roles of the Arab League and the African Union in order to durable peace in the turbulent areas. He emphasized the need to have better command, better communication and better cooperation.

Panel IV “The Future of Warfare: Conflict and Order in the Middle East”

Chaired By Designation Research Papers
Dr. Albadr Alshateri Researcher at the GHQ of the UAE Armed Forces.
Dr. Anthony Cordesman Arleigh A. Burke Chair in Strategy, Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), United States of America The Future of Warfare: Conflict and Order in the Middle East”

Major General (Ret.) Khaled Abdullah Al-Bu-Ainnain Former Commander of the UAE Air Force and Air Defense and President of the Institute for Near East and Gulf Military Analysis (INEGMA) The Future of Warfare: Conflict and Order in the Middle East”

Brigadier General (Ret.) Elias Hanna
Military Strategist and Senior Lecturer at the American University of Beirut and Notre Dame University, Lebanese Republic The Future of Warfare: Conflict and Order in the Middle East”

The whole panel spoke about the future of warfare in the Middle East region. They also highlighted the emerging conflicts and order in the Middle East. Dr. Anthony Cordesman said the Arab Gulf states would face major challenges in terms of their stability and security interests. He suggested that each state should revisit its security apparatus and streamline its national security challenges in order to establish an advanced security shield to meet the internal and external security threats. He emphasized the need to have a closed coordination among the internal security mechanism, counter-terrorism strategies and the last but not the least, civil-military stability operations. He pinpointed that Arab states must develop the professional skill to deal with the weapon of mass destruction, weapons of mass effectiveness, cyber warfare and wild card patterns of conflict and escalation. He strongly focused to have an effective mix of deterrence and defense by radically further strengthening of their security cooperation and coordination.

Brigadier General (Ret.) Elias Hanna talked about different centers of power in the Middle East. He tried his best to shed light on these emerging geo-political and geo-strategic trends on micro and macro levels with all expected regional and global spillover repercussions. He outlined the different types of weaponry existed in the region and how power brokers have been playing with the souls in the region in the shape of proxy wars and full-fledge outside support. He narrated interesting comparison of warfare based on sophisticated and simplicity mentioning the example of Israel and Hezbollah conflict. He suggested the role of leadership and HRM must be integrated to tackle the future security concerns in the region.

He termed geo-politics and geo-strategic actors important to resolve any conflicting realities in the region. He emphasized the need to have new paradigm shift in security, deterrence and defense. He tried to convince to make alternative routes of energy supplies and trade in the future. He supported the concept of diversification of resources and alternativeness in the marital philosophies and prophecies. Being a strategist he mentioned different existed axis of power, and angles of coaxes and emerging power players in the region. He also showed different models of resistance, co-existence, hegemony and anti-hegemony in the region conflicting for strategic cushion, greater political superiority and socio-economic prosperity in the days to come.

Closing remarks was delivered by H.E. Dr. Jamal Sanad Al-Suwaidi, Director General of the ECSSR. He praised all the speakers, researchers, security experts, academicians and guests who made this conference a great success in order to promote the principles of security, stability and peace in the region and beyond. The said conference provided an opportunity to discuss the future risks and threats to humanity and to explore what possible measures to be taken to protect humanity from the evils and threats of war, he added.

Suggestions and predictions are given below as:

Actors/Factors Present Assessments & Future Predictions
Terrorism Terrorism is complicated and complex phenomenon which will remain one of the most bulging future challenges threatening global security and stability.
Counter-Terrorism Strategies Existing counter-terrorism strategies are still partial and limited. There is a long way to go to achieve elements of perfection in preemptive measures and interception.
EU-GCC Partnership The level of military cooperation is at its initial stage right now which needs to be further strengthened. The well-established partnership between the European Union and the GCC can play an important role in international security in the 21st century
Cyber-Attack Cyber-attach are a potential threat in the world. It requires a range of measures at operational and tactical levels. Operations system must be secured from hacking from the external source. Emergence response and activation response must be quick.
Drones Drones have multiplier effects. It is being used as one of the most important means of countering the growth of asymmetric warfare. Role of drones in the future of warfare in the 21st century would be on the rise.
Private War Contractors Although controversial and conspiratorial in nature but it would remain in the greater picture of war and conflict engagements. Its role in logistics would be increased.
State-of-the-art Weaponry Old gadgetry of mass destruction would be replaced with the weapons of effectiveness. Smart improvised explosive devices, nanotech applications, bio-agents and genetic weaponry, chemical and hardware enhancements to the human body, autonomous armed robots, and electromagnetic pulse weaponry; all may be applied in the days to come.
C4ISRs Effectiveness of effective C4I structures combined with the best possible use of new technologies must be followed and implemented. Arab Armies may not be at easy path to install effective command and control systems in Arab armies.
Digital Divide Digital divide harms the prospects of mutual cooperation and coordination which needs to be rectified within the region and at global level too.
Counter-Intelligence It has great role to play in the future. It would be used in collaboration of drones and super computers. Climate change and expertise of economic would play an essential role in the future.
Civil-Mlitary Relations It must be further strengthened, transparent and opened. It requires more comprehensive long term strategies based on greater knowledge of organizational behavior and theory, cultural diversity, HRM, crisis management and conflict resolution.
Preemptive & Surgical Strikes It is a sensitive issue which needs thorough reconsideration and re-collaboration. International military interventions in the Middle East and North Africa must be revisited
Greater Role of Private Sector Greater role of private sector in the warfare of 21st century. But there should be some regulatory mechanism and limits.
Security Paradigm Shift Gulf Cooperation Council and MENA must reshape their existing security structures. There must be paradigm shift from conventional warfare to modern weaponry systems in order to meet the challenges of internal security and counterterrorism, asymmetric wars, conventional wars. Progress in weapons of mass destruction and cyber warfare must be preferred.
Joint Security Shield Joint security shield would be answered to many potential security challenges in the GCC and MENA. It would one of the ideal means to control the foreign infiltration, issues of civil unrest and deteriorating of law and order situation.
Reevaluation of Chinese Greater Role China’s geo-political and geo-strategic role would be further enhanced which needs to be recounted and revalued especially in the GCC and MENA.
Fault-lines of Geo-Political and Geo-Strategic Nature Serious research work is needed to pinpoint the faulty lines of red zones of geo-politics and geo-strategy in the region.
Diversification of Resources and Routes Diversification of resources (oil & gas) is the need of the hour. Renewables have a great scope in the future of warfare in the 21st century. Routes of trade & commerce and easy & smooth of energy supplies would be in the line of fire in the days to come if not manage properly.
Diplomacy War starts when diplomacy fails. Role of pragmatic/interactive diplomacy would be great in resolving the conflicting realities.

Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan

United Arab Emirates is already on the path of socio-economic prosperity and diversification of national economy. Despite, havocs of socio-economy in the region and weak economic prospects at international levels, the macro-economy of the UAE stable, strong and sustainable. Even continued global economic and financial crises, tumbling oil markets and freezing credit markets could not produce any substantial dint in the economy of the UAE.

Gradual economic liberalization, public-private sector collaboration, financial and banking reforms, industrialization, and above all diversification drive has made it one of the best destinations of FDIs, and doing businesses and projects. Most recently, Abu Dhabi launched its second five-year financial plan. It sought to set out the emirate’s short-term development priorities/programs to keep it in line with Vision 2030.

It is based on the further economic diversification in eight key sectors namely: cultural tourism, aviation, manufacturing, media, health care, petrochemical, financial services and renewable energy. Moreover, these priorities are reflected in the list of projects announced by the Executive Council in January 2012. The Abu Dhabi Louvre and the Abu Dhabi Guggenheim museums projects on Saadiyat Island will form the cornerstone of Abu Dhabi strategy of diversifying cultural tourism. On the other hand, more focus is given to capacity building in the high-tech aviation industry which will be achieved through Mubadala’s investment in Strata, investment in the aluminium, steel, copper and petrochemicals sectors. Media is the part and parcel of ongoing soft image projection drive in the country. The Executive Council is also reviewing its investments in the media sector to ensure that it generates a contribution to GDP. The proposed investments in the media sector include Abu Dhabi Media, which owns several entities including The National, and twofour54, the media zone.

Private sector is a must for achieving desired goals of socio-economy in the country. It encourages healthy competition between the service entities. It enhances levels of productivity and efficacy. It generates job opportunities. It is embraced as a strategic partner that effectively supports the public sector and contributes to the implementation of the government’s economic plans in the recently announced second five-year financial plan. Electricity, maritime transportation and aviation, among others, are critical areas of involvement for the private sector. It is assured that the investment programme must be carried out by the private sector. Investments in energy and industry would likely be given even more priority in the future. Real estate sector would play an important role in the days to come.

Abu Dhabi initiated a long-term plan for the transformation of the Emirate’s economy, including a reduced reliance on the oil sector as a source of economic activity over time and a greater focus on knowledge-based industries in the future. It provides a comprehensive plan for the diversification of the Emirate’s economy and a significant increase in the non-oil sector’s contribution to the Emirate’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by the year 2030.

It identifies two strategic areas for economic development in Abu Dhabi; building a sustainable economy, and, ensuring a balanced social and regional economic development approach that brings benefits to all. It is the result of an integrated effort among a number of public sector and joint public-private sector entities.

Short Term Economic Priorities

• Providing an open, efficient, effective and globally integrated business environment
• Pragmatic fiscal policy which is responsive to economic cycles and growth patterns
• Establishing a resilient monetary and financial market environment with manageable levels of inflation
• Driving significant improvement in the efficiency of the labour market
• Developing a sufficient and resilient infrastructure capable of supporting anticipated economic growth
• Developing a highly skilled and highly productive work force
• Enabling financial markets to become the key financiers of economic sectors and projects.

The Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 establishes a common framework for integrating all policies/plans and programs that contributes to the ongoing development of the Emirate’s economy. It encourages the local and international private sector in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. It would be a new employment opportunities for the people of the UAE. Abu Dhabi’s vision growth strategy is based on entrepreneurism, qualitative education, innovation and diversification. Small and medium enterprise development is another area of its foremost priority.

According to the recently published report of the Saudi American Bank group (SAMBA), the UAE economy would achieve more than GDP 3.3 percent. High public spending, Dubai’s economic recovery and inflows of safe investment in the UAE economy may boost its economy around 3.3 per cent in 2013 despite an expected fall in crude output. Its real GDP registered around 4.9 per cent in 2011 and 4.2 per cent in 2012 and growth will likely remain relatively high this year while its fiscal system will continue to record largely surpluses.

It further elaborated that most of the 2013 growth would be in the non-oil sector, which could expand by around 4.1 per cent. Growth in the hydrocarbon sector was put at 1.5 per cent, far below the 2012 growth of 5.9 per cent. In current prices, the report showed the UAE GDP would rise by 4.6 per cent to a record high of about $395.8 billion in 2013 from $378.3 billion in 2012.

The report showed an “increasing shift” towards higher capital, including off budget, and social expenditures. The latest figures of the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) said that the UAE has pumped nearly US$55.5 billion into foreign markets over a period of 32 years to emerge as the largest capital exporter in the Arab world. It accounted for nearly 31 per cent of the total Arab foreign direct investment (FDI) outflow of around US$175.8 billion during 1980-2011. The UAE attracted more than US$85.4 billion in terms of FDIs.

Concluding Remarks

Abu Dhabi Vision 2030 is the collective wisdom of its visionary leadership, economic managers and commitment of its important organs and departments alike. It reflects its high aims to achieve high standards of productivity, efficiency and the last but not the least, banking stability. It shows a blueprint of further socio-economic prosperity, knowledge-based economy, innovation and above all diversification of energy demand and supply.

Booming tourism industry, healthy service sector, strong monetary and fiscal indicators and high ratios of inflows of FDIs would be useful to achieve and consolidate the national drive of diversification and lesser reliance of oil and gas traditional resources of energy in the days to come.

Wife of Honorable Saudi Arabia Ambassador in Pakistan

Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan

(She is proactive in the promotion of various socio-economic and cultural activities and programs in the country. She has been rigorously engaged in the welfare of children of lesser of God in Pakistan i.e. Sweet Homes and Orphanage Centers etc. She is great speaker having scholarship/expertise on Islam, Diplomacy, and Event Management. She is great advocator of strong bilateral relations between the two countries. She tends to stage different folk and musical shows in Pakistan for the lively interaction and promotion of better understanding of cultures).

Which of the major sector of your economy/society where women are contributing good things?

Saudi Arabian women are now leading in many fields. They are now in more profitable propositions. They have proved themselves as successful entrepreneurs, marketing gurus, media expertise, event managers, prudent bankers, efficient lady doctors, business leaders and the last but not the least, computer experts. Opportunities are unrestrained and prospects are even brighter for the women to excel in the future in many diversified fields.

Do you have Women Chamber of Commerce in your country? What is its role in the fields of SME, IT and other sectors of economy?

Yes, we have Women Chamber of Commerce which is playing a decent role in the promotion of women empowerment in the country. It is providing basic skills to all the interested women in the country.

According to a research study at present, there are more than 20,000 firms owned by Saudi women; these range from ordinary retail businesses to various types of industry. The number of women registered in local chambers of commerce and industry is on the increase day by day. The Jeddah chamber, for example, has more than 2000 women members out of a total membership of 50,000. In Riyadh chamber, the figure is over 2,400 out of a total of 35,000 members and this represents a fourfold increase in just ten years. Businesswomen registered with the Eastern Province chamber number more than 1,000 out of a total of 14,000.

Moreover, the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce has recently established the “Khadija bint Khwailid Center” to provide services for businesswomen facilitate business opportunities and provide guidance to encourage women to run their own business.

Saudi businesswomen appreciate the efforts of the government as well as the local chambers of commerce for supporting them and providing them with service. Due to an increase in the number of Saudi businesswomen, the government has had to revise its 30-year-old labor laws and business proceedings to include women.

Now, Saudi women have substantial assets in real estate, jewelry, precious stones and metals. The new opportunities offered to women would include media and marketing, IT, banking and investment.

With the support of public-private sectors, efforts are being made to establish women specific projects that will employ more and more qualified Saudi women. The government has also allocated land for industrial projects that will employ women. Plans are also under way to establish an Industrial Training Institute for Women in Jeddah; the institute plans to train Saudi women in the manufacture of readymade dresses. One of the main salient features of Saudization drive aims to employ more women in the public and private sector.

What is the level of women entrepreneurship in your country?

Saudi Arabia’s macro-economy is stable and sustainable. It widens the scope of women entrepreneurship in the country. Gradually and surely Saudi women entrepreneurship level is on the rise in many fields. Now they have their own businesses. Information technology, software houses, handy crafts, stones polishing etc. are the new businesses owned by women in the country. Women entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia are now establishing and managing more small and medium sized entities than at any time in the past and this trend is growing.

Saudi men have traditionally been the entrepreneurs but our women are no longer standing in the shadows. They have stepped into the light and have become the backbone of society. We in the Saudi Arabia Kingdom are fortunate to have well educated, financially powerful women.

Do Saudi Arabian women have the right of suffrage (Vote)?

The government has already announced the right of suffrage to be given in the future. Nevertheless, they are performing excellent jobs in Shura Council and Chambers of Commerce which are done through majority vote. Saudi women are also doing wonders in local councils. So they are not debarred from the voting in true sense.

Why women are suffering in most of the Muslim Countries? Suggest some measures to eliminate it.

Our religion Islam guarantees the role of women in the formation of a healthier and productive society. I think Islam protects the concept of partnership, participation, persuasion and progression associated with women for the wellbeing of the family, clan, group, society or a nation. It has multiplier socio-economic effects. It would enhance the levels of civility, responsibility, dutifulness and above all self-reliance. There should be no obstacle for the onward march of feminist participation or contribution in the world.

What are your comments about some of the European countries legislation towards Muslim women?

With the passage of time, Muslim women have become citizenship of these European countries. They have been living in these countries for many generations. They respect the law of the land but in return law of land should respect their basic rights of privacy, veil, education or dress code etc.

Would you please tell us some ongoing social (health, education etc.) projects sponsoring by your country in Pakistan?

In time of national crisis or natural calamities, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia stood first with the government and people of Pakistan. The government of Saudi Arabia has been initiating many notable projects in the fields of education, health, clean drinking water, agriculture, and communications. Most recently, Saudi Development Fund has already launched many meaningful projects in the country for the helping the suffering and struggling people from poverty, disease, hunger and insecurity etc. Moreover, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Relief Camp has its office in Islamabad taking care lots of projects related to education, health and clean drinking water. It is also taking care about rehabilitation activities in the different troubled parts of the country ravaged from terrorism. We would glad to announce that this Camp is considering to build new 5000 homes with full of various educational, health centers.

Do you think that there should be close cooperation between women chamber of commerce between the two countries?

We share a strong bond of affinity among the women of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. We stress the need to have greater collaboration between the women of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia for strengthening socio-cultural ties between the two countries. I believe that regular interaction between the women of two countries could be beneficial for their joint collaboration in various fields. Our Embassy in Pakistan, Islamabad has already taken many initiatives for encouraging the Saudi and Pakistani women to interact for mutual benefit.

What are the media images of women in your country?

It stands for respect, dignity and responsibility. Saudi media gives true reflections of Islam associated with women. Our media is responsible towards their rights of privacy, veil, clothes and they are not used for the maximization of profits and achieving larger market shares in the race of cut-throat competition of survival.

How you respond different programs of Pakistani government towards greater empowerment of its women?

I personally think that women empowerment programs of Pakistan’s government would definitely further increase the productive role of women in the development. It would further enhance women participation in the decision making and improve living standards. It would consolidate their financial independencies in the days to come.

How you define the different roles of Saudi Arabia women?

Women have been rigorously engaged with the socio-economic prosperity of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia since its inception. They played very important role in the building of a strong family, productive society and of course a progressive nation. They are now more independent in their decision making within the parameters given by constitution, society and Islam.

In Saudi culture, women have their integrity and a dignified special life. A Saudi Arabian women acts as a trustworthy life partner to her husband, a caring mother to her kids, an obedient daughter to her parents and the last but not the least, a lovely sister to her brothers.

Islam protects the basic rights of women which have already been institutionalized in every walk of life in Saudi Arabia. With the passage of time, women have achieved remarkable positions in every sector of economy, politics, education, nursing, business, investment and small and medium and enterprise. Women in Saudi Arabia have been given the right to vote and run in future municipal elections. Allowing women to stand and vote in municipal elections is a big step towards political reform. The right for women to join the all-male Shura Council could turn out to be even more significant as it is the most influential political body in the country. Now we have the country’s first co-educational university, a first female cabinet member, and our government has already promulgated many laws against domestic violence.

What is the importance of family to Saudi Arabian women?

In every sociological paradigm and political science philosophy, a family has been treated as one of the most important unit of societal development, political interaction and the last but not the least, reaching to national concusses. To us family is the first place of learning, center of love and affection, hub of reliability and definitely an ideal place for character building. Saudi Arabian women tend to work very hard to tame and teach their children valuable lessons and unlimited blessings of Islam, native culture, traditions and heritage etc. They always prepare them to meet with the challenges of life with zeal and full of confidence.

What are the educational and health facilities of your country women?

Education and health are the basic rights of each and every Saudi Arabian woman. They are equally treated with men in the fields of education and health. Women are primarily engaged to study service industries or social sciences. Education, medicine, public administration, natural sciences, social sciences, and Islamic studies are deemed appropriate for women. But now they are adopting new professions of their own choices too.

In my beloved country facilities of education and health are provided free of cost form primary to highest level and from simple surgery to complicated heart operation. We have educational center, schools, colleges and universities along with medical care center, dispensaries and hospitals throughout the country.

Would you please share with us some mega social projects with special reference to women in Saudi Arabia?

Many meaningful mega projects are being carried out in both public and private sectors in the country. New schools, technical educational centers, mother care centers, colleges, universities are being built throughout the country to consolidate the role of women in the development of the country. Constructive, productive and above all supportive environment-oriented activities/programs/projects are being provided to women in Saudi Arabia to make them more useful for the country in the future. Now, even private sector is proactive to initiate woman-oriented projects in the country which is very encouraging.

What is the literacy rate of Saudi Arabia women in the population?

Education is one of the basic rights of women in Saudi Arabia. Education is the first giant step towards knowledge which stands for blessing and peace. Visionary leadership of Saudi Arabia has been positive for women education in the country since its independence. Many effective national policies and programs have been drafted and implemented which are now paying dividends. Till 1950s the literacy rate was not encouraging. But afterwards, there has been gradual improvement in this particular sector. Now literacy rate is excellent and up to the mark.

Do you have any discrimination towards women in your native country?

We have no discrimination or spirits of apartheid against women in Saudi Arabia. Their basic rights are protected by Islam and our constitution. They have the rights to live a decent and qualitative life. They have the liberty to excel in business, education, medical profession, research, engineering and many other related fields.

How you elaborate the Islamic status of a woman?

Islam provides us complete code of life. Much earlier than the dark ages of Europe, and subjugation of male domination taboos around the ancient world, Islam blessed women a complete set of rights, not confined to property, education, respect, dignity and health for more than fourteen centuries.

The Islam gave women economic and social rights long before such rights were attained by Western women. From the beginning of Islam, women have been legally entitled to inherit and bequeath property, holding their wealth in their own names even after marriage, without obligation to contribute that wealth to their husband or their family. Islamic rights of women are highly appreciated even in the West.

How you differentiate Saudi Arabian woman with Pakistani woman?

Women of both the countries do not share any significant difference. Both have their own traditions, cultures, heritages and histories to embark on. Both live a respectable life according to the teachings of Islam.

Who is your role model in life and what is life to you?

Being Muslim, Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be upon Him) is our ultimate role model. His whole life holds the best and Immaculate Conception perfection to all of us. Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be upon Him) is teacher and preacher to all human beings irrespective of race, color, cast and origin.

What are the social and cultural activities of your country’s women?

Women of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia tend to participate in many interrelated social and cultural activities permitted by our religion Islam, traditions, culture, history and heritage. Women have unique role to perform in the country. They are the custodian of our proud social and cultural events.

What is your message to women of Pakistan?

My message is of hope, struggle, hard work and respect. The women of Pakistan must actively participate in the overall growth of their families because family is the nucleus of productivity, positivity and prosperity. I pray to Allah Almighty for the success of all the women living in Pakistan.

Mehemood Ul Hassan Khan

Despite regional economic meltdown and global weak recoveries the United Arab Emirates (UAE macro-economy has performed well. Its macro-economy is strong and stable. It has achieved the elements of sustainability based on diversification drive, active role of private sector and the last but not the least, export-oriented model.

High GDP Projection

According to the latest published report of the ministry of economy the UAE’s real GDP is projected to grow by up to four percent in 2013, strongly supported by robust tourism, trade, industry, strong recovery in real estate and service sector. Furthermore, in current prices, GDP is expected to reach to a record high of Dh1.39 trillion during 2013 from an estimated Dh1.33 trillion, an increase of about 4.5 per cent. The International Finance (IIF) report showed the UAE’s GDP reached to its highest ever level of around US$375 billion in current prices last year from US$352 billion in 2011, an increase of about 6.5 per cent. The 2012 GDP was more than double its level of nearly US$181 billion in 2006. Inflation has been successfully managed from a record high of 14 per cent in 2008 to below one per cent in 2011. Inflation in 2012-2013 would be around 1-1.2 per cent.

Dubai Department of Economic Development (March, 2013) report expects the economy to expand at 4 percent this year. Keeping in view, the figures for the first six months of 2012 the GDP may reach to 4.1 per cent during 2013.

Strong Macro-Economy

The UAE economy has achieved an annual growth rate of 6 per cent during the past two decades, which shows the country’s competitiveness and economic growth. The Washington-based Institute for International Finance (IIF) appreciated the UAE strides in socio-economy development. According to its latest report, the UAE maintained its position as the second largest Arab economy in 2012 after its gross domestic product (GDP) swelled by US$23 billion in current prices. It has been retaining its the second largest Arab economy after Saudi Arabia for more than 10 years because of a steady and rapid growth in its GDP as a result of high public spending, a steady increase in private sector investment and oil productivity of oil sector. The report further showed the UAE’s economy accounted for more than a quarter of the GCC”s GDP of US$1.482 trillion in 2012 and nearly 14 per cent of the combined GDP of MENA countries.

Despite the massive increase in its population over the past years, the UAE maintained its position as one of the richest nations and the third in the Arab region, with its per capita reaching one of its highest levels of US$45,731 in 2012. The report estimated the UAE macro-economy to continue its rise to reach US$395 billion in 2013 and a record high of around US$410 billion in 2014.

Export-Oriented Model

Right from the inception, the UAE has been moving towards an export-oriented model. Its continued economic liberalization, reforms and policies has already transformed its economy to self-reliance and export-oriented model. The Federal Customs Authority (FCA) says that the UAE non-oil exports show a stable growth, confirming the good reputation of these exports in the global markets. It says the value of the UAE non-oil exports rose in the first nine months of 2012 to Dh135.7bn compared to Dhs84.4bn in the same period of the last year”. Moreover, the total foreign non-oil trade (minus the free zones trade) in the first nine months of 2012 surged by Dh99bn to Dhs783.5bn compared to Dh684.9bn in the same period of the last year.

According to the FCA statistics, gold has been the major item in the UAE export structure at a top of the major ten exported goods with Dh79.8bn, followed by ethylene polymers in the basic forms with Dh5.3bn, jewelry and jewels with Dh4.9bn, crude aluminum with Dh3.3bn, propylene polymers in the basic forms with Dh2.9bn, petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous minerals with Dh2.4bn.

The diamond came at the top of the major re-exported commodities in the first nine months of 2012 with Dh26.4bn, followed by jewels and pieces of jewelry with Dh20.3bn, cars with Dh11.1bn, phones including mobiles or other wireless networks with Dh8.3bn and fiber glass with Dh4.2bn.

Demographic Division

Regions Non-Oil Trade Percentage %
Asia- Pacific Dh326.1bn 42
Europe Dh222.2bn 29
MENA Dhs110.6bn 14
America & Caribbean Dhs64.9bn 8
Western and Central Africa region Dh23.2bn 3
COMESA Dh20.8bn 2.7
GCC Dh65.7bn
Source: FCA (March, 2013)

UAE commercial diplomacy has achieved immense success in these years. It has already secured and consolidated strategic allies and business partners.

High Inflows of Foreign Direct Investments

Foreign Direct Investment (FDIs) is the life line for joint ventures and high exports. It is necessary for value-addition. It is must for even technology transfer. It abridges budgetary deficits. It promotes industrialization and activates the positive role of private sector in the national economy. It generates employment.

UAE open door policy has attracted high inflow ratios of FDIs. The government is taking the necessary steps to establish the rules that facilitate investments. Now, the UAE is ranked second among Arab countries attracting foreign investments in the last decade. According to the World Investment Report (2012) issued by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), foreign direct investments (FDI) flowing into the UAE amounted to $ 7.7 billion of the total amount of FDI to GCC countries, which was $ 26 billion in 2011. Now, many foreign companies and investors consider the UAE as a safe haven for investments because of its political stability and safe heaven for the investments. It also has a strong infrastructure and is considered a leading hub for trade, logistics and services in the region. It is highest connected country in the GCC and MENA too.

Moreover, the EC Harris Built Asset Consultancy’s “Infrastructure Investment Index”, which is a report that ranks 40 countries across the globe according to how attractive they are to infrastructure funds is ranked UAE 4th globally. It shows the UAE strong commitment towards economic facilitations and incentives for the interested businessmen and investors.

UAE: easiest Arab place for starting projects

Facilitation of doing business and staring of projects are must for rapid industrialization, attraction of FDIs and promotion of joint ventures in the country. In this regard, UAE government is doing its level best to provide every possible facility to all the interested businessmen and investors.

Most recently, the World Bank in its report titled “Ease of Starting Business Index” ranked the UAE THE easiest Arab place for starting projects. It is achieved because of UAE smooth procedures and simple tax system. It improved its ranking from 46 in 2012 to 22 in 2013 indeed a giant leap. The index, part of the “Ease of Doing Business Index” covering 185 countries, also classified the UAE as the top nation in the world in terms of paying taxes after it was ranked seventh in 2012. The tax sub-index covered total number of tax years, labour tax, total tax rate to profits, time needed to pay tax and profit tax, which was put at zero, indicating the UAE does not impose taxes on corporate earnings.

The index, published in the latest monthly bulletin of the Kuwaiti-based Inter-Arab Investment Guarantee Corporation (IAIGC), showed the UAE was ranked 13th in the world in terms of dealing with construction permits, seventh in getting electricity for the project, and fifth in trading across borders. UAE government is ready to take measures to further improve the investment climate, expedite procedures, allow full foreign ownership and issue a landmark debt law. The Ministry of Finance said last month the debt law, which will also tackle bankruptcy, has been drafted and would be approved soon.

High Performance of UAE Bourses

Stock Exchanges are at their lowest ebbs around the globe. Abu Dhabi-based Arab Monetary Fund (AMF) said the UAE bourses emerged as the star performers in the Arab world in the first few weeks of 2013, with the markets of Abu Dhabi and Dubai gaining more than $4 billion to offset a decline in most other regional exchanges. The bulk of the growth was witnessed in the bourses of the UAE.

Furthermore, Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange recorded the biggest rise in the region, with its market capitalisation surging from around $82.7 billion at the start of 2013 to $86.1 billion. Dubai’s market capitalisation grew from about $55.9 billion to $57.6 billion in the same period. This means the total increase in the UAE market capitalisation was $4.1 billion. Future prospects are healthy and positive as good results recorded by most banks and other listed firms last year.

Stable Consumer Confidence

The recent report (March, 2013) of the MasterCard has revealed the results of the latest MasterCard Index of Consumer Confidence, which indicates that Consumer Confidence in the UAE is steadily rising, with a score of 91.4 as compared to 86.0 in the previous edition of the Index released 6 months ago.

According to the report the consumers in the UAE are ‘extremely optimistic’ in their overall consumer confidence score, and are positive about all five indicators measured in the Index. When compared to the previous edition of the survey, consumers are more optimistic about

Indicators Present Pervious
Quality of Life 95.6 88.6
Employment 95.2 88.9
Economy 94.6 89.1
Stock Market 86.9 77.0
Source: MasterCard Report (March, 2013)

UAE: Tops in region in travel & tourism

UAE land of tallest building, unlimited sea places, grand hotels and infinite gifts/discoveries of the nature has topped once again in travel and tourism in the GCC and MENA. The Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2013, released by the World Economic Forum (WEF) recent report has endorsed it. UAE has already built a cultural resource base, attracting both leisure and business travellers, with several and growing international fairs and exhibitions and increasingly diverse creative industries. Report titled “Reducing Barriers to Economic Growth and Job Creation” the UAE is blessed by a strong affinity for Travel & Tourism. Its world class international hubs for global air travel along with high standards of hospitality makes it one of the best destinations for the regional and international tourists. I addition to this, its effective marketing and branding campaigns, easy policy rules and regulations, foreign investments policy and the last but not the least, a liberal visa regime are the few factors of its achievements in the Felds of travel & tourism. The emirate’s tourism industry is set to receive 2.5 million tourists in 2013, up from last year’s record 2.3 million tourists.

UAE: Lowest rate of software piracy in Middle East

Due to its continuous reforms and regulatory bodies mechanism, the UAE has the lowest rate of piracy in the GCC and MENA. Microsoft and the International Data Corporation (March, 2013) acknowledges the UAE contribution in anti-piracy drive and institutionalization of laws. The rate of counterfeit software in the UAE was 37 per cent in 2011, the lowest in the region and better than the global average of 42 per cent.

Concluding Remarks

United Arab Emirates macro-economy is stable, strong and sustainable. All the main indicators of its economy are healthy, positive and productive. Export-oriented model paves the way of higher foreign exchange. National drive of diversification of economy speeds us active participation of private sector, industrialization, manufacturing sector and above all lesser dependence on oil and gas reservoirs.

UAE pursuits of alternative/renewables are paying dividends. It is regional leader and global brand name in renewables especially in solar and wind energy mix. Service sector is at its peak and one of main contributors in the GDP. Banking industry is performing extraordinarily. A future prospect of UAE’s macro-economy is positive and healthy.

Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan

The 11th International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) 2013 was held in UAE, Abu Dhabi during February 17-21, 2012. More than 1,112 companies from some 59 countries participated in the strategically most important tri-service exhibition for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

It was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates. It was organised by the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC) in coordination with the UAE Armed Forces GHQ. Tawazun was the main sponsor. IDEX 2013 provided an ideal business environment for international defence companies and top decision makers in the land, air and sea sectors

First held in 1993, is the largest joint defence exhibition in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. IDEX takes place biennially under the patronage of HH Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and is organised by ADNEC (Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company) in association with the UAE Armed Forces GHQ. It was a unique platform to establish and strengthen relationships with government departments, businesses and armed forces.

United Arab Emirates has been put on the armaments industry map again by the successful holding of successive IDEX. In War Theater it is said “self defence is the best defence”. Weakness has always been one of the key factors of foreign aggression and infiltration which ended up to subjugation, socio-economic embargos and above all political isolation. Strong Deterrence’s Model has become the symbol of national sovereignty and pride. It depends on domestic armaments industry which always guarantees safety of the national strategic assets. It protects the desired goals of foreign policy and commercial diplomacy.

It has been the policy of the UAE to promote its own local military/defence production industry for the best solutions of its protection from any kind of aggression since its inception. The International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) have now counted amongst the most established and prestigious international defence shows/exhibitions which provide an excellent opportunity for the manufactures to share expertise and technological achievements and enhance their global presence.

IDEX and Global Peace

The International Defence Exhibition and Conference 2013 now paved the way towards mutual understanding and cooperation between the nations jointly involved in serving the global cause of peace where UAE keeps playing its dominant role in the GCC and Middle East.

IDEX 2013

The grand opening ceremony of IDEX 2013 was attended by a high-profile officials, foreign delegations and ministers. Large numbers of senior civilian and military officials along with defence ministers, chiefs of staff, top commanders as well as VIP guests, dignitaries, diplomats and leaders of the world defence industry attended the opening ceremony today.

An international conference named “The Gulf Defence” was also held. It was organised by the Institute for Near East & Gulf Military Analysis (INEGMA), the conference provided an excellent prelude to the formal opening of the IDEX exhibition. It provided an important forum to address developments in the defence industry as leaders and decision makers from around the world gather for IDEX. This year’s technology focus reflected the increasingly significant role of advanced systems, such as unmanned systems and network-centric architecture, in reinforcing regional security.

It was the ultimate biennial event for participants to establish and strengthen ongoing relationships with governments, businesses and armed forces across the region. Exhibitors showcased the latest technology and products; demonstrated capabilities of live equipment, and host guests and clients at private presentations and networking events.

Highlights of IDEX 2013

Specifications Details
Unmanned Systems
A focused Unmanned Systems Area was introduced for the first time, together with a one-day technology workshop, under the principal sponsorship of Abu Dhabi Autonomous Systems Investments (ADASI) and with the support of the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUSVI).
Helicopter Pavilion It was located outside at the ADNEC Marina, this area will provide outside display space for rotary-wing aircraft to be displayed and viewed.
Live Demonstrations IDEX continued to offer exhibiting companies the prime opportunity to demonstrate equipment and crafts. Daily choreographed displays were took place daily on the water and on the purpose-built demonstration track.

Leaders Perceptions about IDEX 2013

Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, highlighted the strategic importance of IDEX. They agreed that it has grown to be counted among the world’s most important defence shows in terms of the increasing number of participating countries and exhibitors, the quality and types of showcased products, and the number of visitors it draws from many countries from near and far.

Both leaders also stressed that under the stewardship of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE works to achieve humanitarian stability and security, not only within the country, but also globally, and has ensured excellent relations with all states, due to its balanced policy. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum explained that IDEX is not an arms market, but an information gathering platform for updating such information through viewing the latest innovations and modifications to air, land and sea weapons and to reconnaissance, observation and communication equipment and logistic tools.

“We continue to have the ambition to live up to the global and international competition, so we have harnessed all capabilities to achieve our strategy. We have spared no effort to invest in the national human capital to qualify it with science and knowledge and to polish its experience with training Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan added.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan praised the regular holding of IDEX by saying “Among the essential and significant aspects of organising these high-quality military exhibitions is to give national companies and establishments an opportunity to promote their status as specialised manufacturers and producers adopting the highest international quality standards and competing with global corporations, and, ultimately, to be able to provide advanced products, technologies and solutions.

IDEX 2013 and Notable Foreigners/Diplomats

The IDEX also attracted foreign officials. High ups from France rigorously participated in IDEX and showed great interest in the development of the UAE military assets and local industry. Yemeni Defense Minister Mohammed Nasser Ahmed also attended the IDEX 2013. Italian Undersecretary of State for Defense, Filippo Milone, on behalf of the Defense Minister Giampaolo Di Paola, participated as well. The US Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State at the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs Thomas Kelly; the British Minister for Defense Equipment, Support and Technology Philip Dunne; the Delegate to the Minister of National Defense of Algeria Abdelmalek Guenaïzia and the Minister of Defense of Bosnia and Herzegovina Zekerijah Osmic also visited the IDEX 2013.

IDEX 2012 and Local Expertise

It is hoped that with successful execution of IDEX 2012, it would give a big boost to Abu Dhabi’s defence productions capabilities. According to the official figures over 1,112 exhibitors from 59 countries showcased their latest technologies and weapons. More than 80,000 visitors showed their keen interest in the displayed items. Six defence ministers, 12 chiefs of staff and 15 military leaders also attended the IDEX 2013.

During the IDEX 2013, the UAE Armed Forces signed 55 contracts worth Dh14 billion, to procure arms and ammunition and service agreements with local companies. General Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces appreciated the support given by the UAE leadership to the initiatives aimed boosting industrial sector and increasing productivity in a way that would contribute to the economic diversification and enhance competitiveness of the UAE made products. He also praised the capabilities and skills of the Emirati youth who proved themselves in advanced and specialised industries.

“Our youth have great potentials and we are confident that they can take precision and advanced manufacturing capabilities to new levels. We are proud of our national industry making its presence strongly felt under one roof with the leading industrial houses,” he said. General Sheikh Mohammed said the UAE had developed a clear plan for developing advanced industries “which is bearing fruit today.” He also expressed appreciation to international companies which entered partnerships with the national companies, leading to the transfer of technology and know-how.

UAE’s Contributions

The UAE was hosted the largest country pavilion at IDEX 2013. More than 147 UAE-based companies exhibited, spanning over 12,500 square metres (sqm) of exhibition space. The UAE succeeded to achieve a global reputation for staging and organising security and defence exhibitions. Its soft image has been enhanced.

Abu Dhabi’s Tawazun Holding displayed its might to the overseas visitors. Forty-companies showcased guns, missiles, ammunition, rocket launchers, heavy military vehicles and other sophisticated weapons. It was a proud moment for the leadership, which built the capability in less than five years, and has already made the nation self-reliant in several areas of defence productions and creating several business opportunities.

The spokesman for the UAE Armed Forces Staff Major General Obaid Al Ketbi, said: “The UAE is proud to host IDEX, the largest land, air and sea defence exhibition in in the MENA region and one of the most strategically significant defence exhibitions on the world stage.”

Following is given the detail of UAE companies which rigorously participated in the IDEX 2013.

Names Names
Abu Dhabi Aviation Continental Aviation Services
Abu Dhabi Mar Cummins Middle East FZE
Abu Dhabi Ship Building Dry Docks World
Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority Eagle Tugs
Action Target; Action Target Earth
ADASI Elcome International LLC
ADCOM Systems Emiraje
ADM Kiel Emirates Advanced Investments
AGP FZE Emirates Classification (TASNEEF)
Al Fahad Smart Systems Emirates Defence Technology
Al Fattan Ship Industry Emirates Inflatable Boats Libra Est.
Al Jaber Land Systems Emirates Shooting Equipment Co.
Al Jundi Journal Euro Holography LLC
Al Masaood Bergum WLL Exalto Emirates
Al Masaood Travel Excel – Altec
Al Naboodah Protection LLC Excel Industry Co. LLC
Al Seer Marine Supplies of Equipment Co. Ltd Fighter Gifts
Al Shaheen Flir
Al Taif GAL
Al Tuff International Hard Shell FZE
Al Wasl Trading Group Hawker Pacific Airservices Ltd
Alhallami Group High Impact Technology
Alhamra Group Higher Colleges of Technology
Ali & Sons (Audi Abu Dhabi) Honeywell
Ammroc Horizon
Ares Security Vehicles LLC Hotzone Solutions Middle East Consultants & Trainings
ASIS Boats LLC Hydra Trading
Austal Ships INEGMA
Babcock International Group plc Injazat Data Systems
Bayanat INKAS
Beltechexport FZE Integrated Logistic Solutions
Bin Hilal Enterprises Intelligent Safety Glass LLC
Burkan International Armored Group
C4AS International Golden Group
Caracal
CMN

Isherwoods Joint Aviation Command
Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research KP
Leader healthcare FZCO LOC8 Equipment Trading LLC
Logistik Unicorp FZE Lowa
Maelstrom Footwear Mahindra Emirates Vehicle Armouring FZ LLC;
Marlow Masder United Arab Emirates
Massif MDC General Services Holding Company LLC
Microsoft; Motorola Solutions, Inc.
MP3 International Mystery Ranch
NAS Nation Shield – GHQ of UAE Armed Forces
National Bank of Abu Dhabi Naval Advanced Solutions
Nimr United Arab Emirates NIMR Automotive
Nobiskrug Patagonia
PETZL Privinvest
Promostar Publishing & Advertising; Rabdan
Ras Al Khalimah Free Trade Zone Authority Remaya
Revision Sakthi Aerospace Products Design Services
SecuTronic FZE Sofia Trading
Solas Marine Services Group Solite Electro Technology
Spectec Middle East Specturm
Steelforce Middle East FZCO Stratign FZCO
Streit Group FZE Sultan RoyalBlue
Superhouse Middle East Swarovski Optics
Tactical Solutions Middle East Trading Agencies LLC TADS
TAS Tawazun
Tawazun Dynamics Tawazun Training Center
TechWise Global JLT Telecommunications Regulatory Authority
The Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research The International Security & National Resilience Exhibition and Conference 2014
The Security Review Thuraya Telecommunications Company
TIP TPI
Transworld Aviation FZE TSSDMC
UAE University Ultra Electronics
Vision Technologies Systems Yahsat
Zone Group UAE
Source: IDEX 2012

It is seemed that over the past two decades, IDEX has helped participants and exhibitors alike establish valuable strategic partnerships while facilitating knowledge-transfer amongst the world’s leading defence companies, the UAE, and our friends and allies.

With the conclusion of Idex-2013, the second Naval Defence Exhibition, (NAVDEX) which doubled in size since its inception with over 80 exhibitors, was also concluded. Reflecting the strategic significance of the exhibition, exhibitors from 2013 have already booked more than 50 per cent of the exhibition area for IDEX and Navdex 2015.

UAE Strong Presence at IDEX 2013

The strong presence of 147 UAE-based companies, occupying the largest of 38 country pavilions, reflected the emerging prominence of its national defence industry. It was another giant step towards economic diversification as desired by Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030. It highlighted UAE advancements in the fields of aerospace and defence. Local companies of the UAE especially Abu Dhabi achieved significant progress in these areas, establishing the foundations of an industry that would support economic development for decades to come.

UAE and Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX)

Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) is the main sponsor for the concurrent Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX) 2013, which featured a revamped maritime security zone designed to address emerging trends in the region’s naval defence market. “NAVDEX presents a unique opportunity for ADSB to showcase our industry-leading offerings to government and private sector decision-makers.

Amongst those with the largest space reserved include Tawazun, headline sponsors of the exhibition, with 2,918sqm reserved, and Mubadala Development Company, the Abu Dhabi based investment and development company, with 1,870sqm reserved.

UAE Prominent Participants

Names Demonstration
Abu Dhabi Autonomous Systems Investments Advanced line-up of unmanned, remotely controlled vehicles across air, land and sea
Caracal Range of leading edge hand guns and rifles
NIMR Multi-purpose vehicles specifically designed for tactical missions in harsh environments such as arid deserts, modern urban warfare, deep infiltration missions, reconnaissance, border surveillance and support logistics
Al Taif Technical Services Services exhibited its systems engineering and integration capabilities for defense systems, as well as a range of their prototyping and small lot production of critical components in support of its MRO activities
Bayanat Showcased their fully integrated end-to-end geospatial services that include aerial, hydrographic and field surveying and geodesy, spatial data management, various types of maps (topographic, hydrographic and aeronautical) and 2D and 3D data models production in addition to related advisory services.

In addition to the above given table Masdar, the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, Advanced Integrated Systems, Bin Hilal Enterprises, Emirates Defence Technology, International Armored Group, Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority and Al Fattan Ship Industry. Universities participating in the pavilion include the Higher Colleges of Technology, UAE University and Khalifa University of Science and Technology were remained the star performer during the 5 days international event i.e. IDEX 2013.

Strategic Significance of IDEX 2013

The IDEX 2013 has a long history of growth. It has already influenced the armaments decisions of countries situated in the Middle East, Africa and the Asia. It gathered attention from the world’s defence and homeland security industry during the 5 days international event.

Due to IDEX UAE has become the forefront of defence and military industries in the region which would reduce the country’s dependence on oil and on imports from foreign countries of such weapons. Its military industries had established international reputation with capabilities ranging from air to land to maritime and manufacturing. Its military Industries have pursued more sophisticated, high tech capabilities, benefitting from joint ventures with major international companies that has led to technology transfer and helped increase Emirati experience and skills.

One of the main objectives of the UAE was to become self-sufficient in the defence industry. UAE is doing its best to be self-sufficient through joint ventures that provide its national cadres with sufficient knowhow and knowledge to invent equipment and devices that meet our future needs. During IDEX 2013, the UAE Armed Forces inked deals worth Dh14.1 billion to purchase weapons and equipment. More than 70 per cent of the amount has been awarded to local companies.

The UAE defence industries cover the production of a wide range of products including portable arms, ammunition, naval vessels (construction and repair) and inflatable boats, aircraft systems (unmanned, structural parts, spare parts, engine maintenance and repair, ground support equipment), vehicles and vehicle superstructures. The IDEX 2013 would be great boost for its local defence industry in the days to come. IDEX 2013 helped to create partnerships without running into too many bureaucratic hurdles. Sellers and buyers meet directly and they finalised the deals on spot.

Different Fields Description
Domestic Defence Industry It would be better for the domestic defence production industry to compete and match with regional or any international companies. It provided a ideal platform to UAE local defence industry.
Defence Exports The country’s defence exports may be increased in the GCC because a larger number of the UAE local defence manufactures.
Boost to Service Sector It would further boost the service sector. Facilitations process with regard of fairly economical cost as compare to individual company trips in the exhibitions may also be speeded up.
Manufacturers & Suppliers It facilitated manufacturers and suppliers of defence and security technology in securing contacts and contracts within the Middle East and surrounding regions.
Transfer of Technology The chance of transfer of technology would become higher afterwards.
Decision Making Process The decision makers easily selected the state-of-the-art weaponry systems in the IDEX 2013.
Soft Image Projection It promoted the UAE and its institutions and allowed foreigners the opportunity to learn more about the country’s achievements, cultural aspects and Arabic and Islamic traditions
Promotion of State-of-the-Art Infrastructure It would further enhance UAE’s pursuits to build state-of-the-art infrastructure, providing government facilities and competent nationals, experienced in organising and hosting international exhibitions.
FDIs & Joint Ventures High hopes of attracting FDIs and joint ventures
Ready Reference to Instructors and researchers Firsthand knowledge about the latest machineries, equipment and arms production in the region and around the globe. Facilitation for the instructors and researchers etc

IDEX: A Historic Perspective

Since its inception in 1993, IDEX has grown tremendously to become a globally recognised tri-service defence exhibition and the largest event in the Middle East and Africa. The International Defense Exhibition & Conference, or IDEX, is a biennial arms and defense technology sales exhibition. According to many prestigious regional and international defence journals IDEX is the largest arms exhibition in the Middle East. The business conducted at the 2005 IDEX totaled 2 billion US dollars.

Every time IDEX has always been attracted a growing attention of international decision-makers and key military and government representatives. The strong representation of individuals/private sector from the GCC and MENA countries make IDEX a primary mechanism to reach these influential audiences/manufactures.

IDEX Details/Year
I Originally it was launched on February 14th 1993, with the active participation of more than 350 companies, representing 34 countries.
II It was conducted in March 1995. It saw the participation of more than 600 companies from 55 countries, with more than 45,000 visitors during the 5 day event.
III It was honoured by the visit of H.H. President Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan the late President of the UAE and Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces who toured the entire exhibition in 1997.
IV It saw further growth, with 848 companies from 41 countries receiving 70 military delegations. It was held in 1999.
V It attracted 865 companies from 43 countries and numerous delegations led by Heads of State, Ministers of Defence, Chiefs of Staff and Heads of Military Procurement. It was held in 2001. It further enhaced UAE status as the host nation.
VI It maintained the show’s reputation as an important platform for the announcement of military contracts and as a reflection of the strategic importance of the region. It was executed in 2003.
VII It was planned in 2005. It had grand success.
Source: IDEX Home Page

Afterwards, the IDEX series continued to see growth across the show with substantial visitor numbers, exhibitors and delegations participated at the event.

Main Deals

According to Major General Obaid Al Ketbi, Chairman of the organising committee for the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX 2013) a total of DHS5.2 billion of defence contracts was awarded by the UAE with 17 international and national contractors. The US Wisconsin-based defence contractor Oshkosh Corporation won the biggest deal of Dhs1.4 billion to provide the UAE Armed Forces with 750 Mine Resistant Ambush Protected All-Terrain Vehicles (M-ATV).

The UAE also signed a Dhs 722 million contract with the UAE’s International Golden Group (IGG) to purchase Predator-EPs and integrated technical support, Al-Ketbi said in a press conference at the venue of IDEX 2013. Another contract worth 472.7 million was signed by the Armed forces with Russia’s KBP to buy different types of ammunition.

The third largest deal worth Dhs 720 million was won by Tawazun Holding; the UAE’s strategic investment holding company focused on defense and specialized manufacturing, to supply CIRIT laser guided missiles. CIRIT, manufactured by Rokestan, is the first Turkish-made laser-guided missile.

The other deals announced included a contract worth Dhs 215 million with global consulting firm Booz & Company which will provide consultation and support, a contract worth Dhs 350 million with UAE’s IGG, Germany’s SAP and USA’s IBM to provide IT support for the Forces’ supply system.

Italy’s Fincantieri won a deal worth DHS140 million to provide technical support to Abu Dhabi’s anti-marine ship. The Armed Forces also sealed a deal worth Dhs 375.4 million with ADSB to install Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) systems on its vessels, Al-Ketbi added.

The other deals, according to Al-Ketbi, include a contract worth Dhs 345 million with the UAE’s Knowledge to provide strategic consultation for the Land Forces, a Dhs 56 million deal with South Korea’s Hanwha Corporation to provide the Armed Forces with ammunition and explosives, a DHS30 million deal with the UAE’s Naval Advanced Solutions to provide technical support for the Armed Forces’ vessels, a Dhs 11.7 million contract with the UAE’s Al Jisr Company to provide the Armed Forces with chemical equipment, a Dhs 46.3 million deal with France’s CEFA to provide spare parts, a Dhs 27.2 million contract with the UAE’s Telecommunications to provide telecom equipment and spare parts and a Dhs 157 million with the UAE’s Advanced Military Maintenance Repair and Overhaul Centre (AMMROC) to provide upgraded avionics for the UAE’s C130 Hercules transport aircraft.

Some of the most substantial local deals made by the UAE Armed Forces included the purchase of Dh829.8million of small arms ammunition and Dh720m of laser-guided rockets from Abu Dhabi based Tawazun, the principal sponsor of Idex.

The UAE oil firm, Adnoc, concluded a mammoth contract worth Dh1.1bn to manage operating facilities and provide fuel for aircrafts and vehicles. There were also significant deals done with the United States for unmanned Predator drones in the shape of a Dh722m contract. But by far the biggest single deal was for 750 mine-resistant, ambush-protected all-terrain vehicles worth Dh1.4bn, also built in the US.

IDEX and Pakistan’s Defence Industry

Pakistan’s defence production industry has made significant progress in developing indigenous capabilities for production of sophisticated weapon systems and has the capacity to export its products from small arms to jet fighters. 24 high-profile and auxiliary defence production companies from Pakistan participated in the exhibition. Visitors and experts from different parts of the world showed keen interest in Pakistani products.

Pakistan Ordnance Factories, Heavy Industries Taxila and Global Industries & Defence Solutions, especially the Al Khalid tank were the star performer during the 5 days event. Experts appreciated the quality and efficiency of the tanks the best in the world, like targeting the enemy at night and auto-tracking of enemy tanks were the star performer. Pakistan participated the IDEX 2013 with three vessels including a submarine, a multi-purpose auxiliary craft called Jurrat, which has been built in Pakistan with full integration of weaponry; and Shah Jahan, modified as per the requirements of our own armed forces. All the three vessels are equipped with the indigenously produced weapon systems.”

Concluding Remarks

IDEX and NAVDEX have given the chance to create strategic partnerships in accordance with Abu Dhabi’s vision for 2030 to diversify the local economy. IDEX 2013 provides excellent opportunity to develop better understanding and friendship, networking of the defence industry for trade and joint ventures and, more importantly, seeking affordable solutions to prevent war through conventional balance. IDEX has become a meeting place for defence exhibitors and delegations, analysts and trade visitors seeking affordable solutions to meet challenges faced by the defence industry.

UAE defence firms received the lion’s share of the contracts with 35 deals signed with the Armed Forces. Navdex, the naval and maritime security section of Idex, also grew in size from 60 companies two years ago to 80 in 2013. Daily live demonstrations featured a host of attractions for visitors, including aerial acrobatics and choreographed marine displays from a range of participating countries.

Preparations are already under way for IDEX and NAVDEX 2015, with plans to expand the area’s promenade and dredge a deeper canal that can allow for a greater number of larger ships to moor at the site. More than 50 percent of the exhibition space has already been booked for IDEX 2015. Undoubtedly, IDEX 2013 was a great success.

Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan

The leadership and government of the United Arab Emirates are taking all possible measures to tackle the looming danger of water scarcity. Water security has become mantra of every government around the globe, especially in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Middle East region. It is one of the key strategic assets for human survival on the planet. It is an effective tool of achieving micro or macro socio-economic goals around the globe and Arabian Gulf too. From ancient civilizations to modern times of to-day, water has had been remained driving force for collaboration, integration and socio-economic development. It has been one of main reasons for stability, sustainability, peace, and the last but not the least green revolutions throughout the human history.

International Water Summit (2013)

Most recently, an international Water Summit was held during the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week in Abu Dhabi. Technologists, scientists, decision makers and researchers were participated the said summit. The International Water Summit was a major new global platform for promoting water sustainability in arid regions. It provided the unique opportunity to network and do business with global leaders, municipalities, utilities, contractors, consultants and top decision makers from the public and private sectors within the Middle East and around the globe. The Ministerial Panel gathered a distinguished group of policy makers, entrepreneurs, innovators and visionaries from around the world to create an international think-tank dedicated to sustainable development during the said international water summit (IWS) 2013.

An international conference was held on January 16-17 that provided a platform for exchange of ideas, presentation of cutting-edge research, benchmarking of successful strategies and insight into the thoughts and vision of water industry leadership and technical innovators. During IWS an exhibition was staged and which showcased state-of-the-art products and solutions by water industry experts from around the world.

Main topics discussed/highlighted during the ISW are given below as:

a) Global and local water governance and cross boundary cooperation
b) The water challenges presented to arid and water scarce regions
c) Water and energy for sustainable development
d) Water network efficiency
e) Tariff, Tax and Transfer
f) Supply and demand management
g) Desalination
h) The water energy nexus
i) Energy Conservation and cost efficiency
j) Providing water solutions to rural communities
k) Water resource classification, allocation and management
l) Clean technologies and renewable energy integration into water production
m) Water production, technology and processes to positively impact environment
n) Public and private partnerships to promote water industry diversity and effectiveness
o) Future challenges affecting water availability
p) Reducing consumption, recycling and reuse

Importance of water

Water is indeed blood vessel for the life on earth which in endangered due to many socio-economic, geo-political and geo-strategic reasons. It was warned during the summit that more urgent policy measures must be taken as the population of the GCC grows. In addition to this according to international water summit organizers the population of the Middle East would reach from 360 million to more than 600 million by 2050 so, sincere efforts must be initiated of allocating the precious resource i.e. blue or liquid gold, water.

UAE successful Pilot Project

According to the Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Company (January, 2013), each person in the UAE uses 350 litres of water a day, compared to the 160 to 180 litres recommended by the World Health Organisation. Moreover, ground-water supplies that sustain agriculture in the emirate are dwindling. In UAE, a successful pilot project using tertiary-treated wastewater to irrigate crops will be initiated to produce an estimated 6 million gallons a day. Other potential uses for recycled water, including sustaining whatever parks and other green spaces that can be feasibly maintained in an arid environment, should be followed.

Demand-Supply Parity

The executive director of the International Water Resources Association says “by 2030, we will withdraw 20 to 30 per cent more water than our existing reliable supplies.” He shared that re-use was crucial. “The Colorado River is reused six to seven times before reaching the sea.

The Global Water Intelligence’s Re-use Markets says 4,000 trillion litres is extracted a year. Only 10 per cent of that is collected and only seven trillion litres, or a small fraction of 1 per cent of the total, is treated. Globally, agriculture accounts for 83 per cent of water used. But with the world population expected to rise from seven billion people to nine billion by 2050, so will demand. It was warned that allocation of water for human, industrial and agriculture consumption should be rationalized as soon as possible for protecting our present and securing our next generations.

Masdar’s announcement

During the Sustainability Week, International Water Summit Masdar, the Emirate’s clean-energy company announced to build the UAE’s first large-scale water desalination plant to be powered by renewable energy. Masdar is looking for interested technology partners for three trial projects to run until the end of 2015, before construction on the plant begins the year after. Dr Sultan Al Jaber, the company’s chief executive said “The aim of the pilot programmes is by 2020 to have a large-scale, commercially viable water desalination plant powered by renewable energy whether it is solar, geothermal or other sources, or maybe even a combination.”

Abu Dhabi’s desalination plants

According to the official data the UAE relies on desalination plants for more than 90 per cent of its potable water. In 2011, Abu Dhabi’s desalination plants produced more than 2,700 million litres of water. Moreover, Abu Dhabi relies on combined-cycle electricity and water plants, powered by natural gas, which are responsible for almost a third of the UAE’s greenhouse gas emissions.

“Energy-intensive water desalination will continue to play its role, yet we have to start thinking about innovative ways of utilising technologies that will allow us to harness natural resources, like solar, wind, geothermal, to desalinate water,” he added.

Masdar’s Priorities

Masdar says it will cover half of the cost of the plant and its partners will cover the other half, but no figure has been announced. Forty-eight companies have already been shortlisted for the programme and their ideas will be evaluated by a technical committee of experts from Masdar, UAE University, the Environment Agency, Abu Dhabi and the Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority.

Many countries in the region especially, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Qatar have already initiated many diversified but integrated policies/programs to cope this emerging serious problem.

It has now been labeled as blue gold due to its precious nature. It has multiplier effect on different sectors of production and survival. It has been intertwined with human health, energy, environment and the last but not the least, socio-economic development.

UAE and especially, Abu Dhabi shows great commitment for new desalination capacity. To meet the challenge, large-scale dual purpose power/desalination plants are built to reduce the cost of production of electricity and water.

Abu Dhabi diversified policy initiatives and Agriculture Sector

Razan Al Mubarak, secretary general of the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi said agriculture is the largest consumer of ground water and effective measures have been taken to increase its efficiency. She said one option was to update an existing law from 2006 that gives the agency the right to oversee ground-water wells. The law was followed by a decree banning the drilling of any new wells. The said law could be amended to give the agency authority over how much water users were allowed to take from each well and to deal with the illegal sale of ground water by well-owners, she added.

She pinpointed that “In areas of Abu Dhabi such as Al Ain, Al Shweib and Liwa, 50 years ago groundwater was easily accessible,” she said. “The groundwater was between half a metre and a metre below the surface and wells could be dug by hand.” She warned that overuse of the water for agriculture, forestry and the oil sector has tapped a substantial amount of the reserves and at some places ground water depletion is so significant that the water table has dropped by as much as five metres a year.

Depletion of water levels

In 2011, total demand for water in Abu Dhabi was 3,313 million cubic metres. Two thirds, 67 per cent, of this demand was filled by ground water reserves, 29 per cent from desalinated water and 4 per cent from recycled water. From 2009 to 2011 the amount of water used in irrigation fell by 7 per cent, possibly as a result of growing fewer water-intensive crops such as Rhodes grass. However, more needs to be done and the agency has made extending the life of Abu Dhabi’s groundwater reserves a strategic priority.

In addition to possible changes to the law, other approaches supported by the agency involve supporting agriculture in greenhouses and the use of hydroponic systems, which can be as much as 80 per cent more water efficient she explained.

Inefficient use of potable water also has serious financial implications. In 2011, it cost on average Dh10.43 to produce a cubic metre of water through desalination. Emiratis receive water free, and expatriates are charged Dh2.2 a cubic metre. The difference is covered by the Government.

UAE/ Abu Dhabi

Strategic Measures

(a) Building of World’s largest underground reservoir

It has started to build the world’s largest underground reservoir, with 26,000,000m3 of desalinated water. It will store enough water for 90 days when completed. The reasoning is that the UAE is now wholly dependent on desalination to survive.

(b) Underground artificial water reserve

It will construct an underground artificial water reserve, a man-made aquifer storing desalinated water deep underground in an economical and environmentally sound manner to be used in case of emergency. The strategic reserve, on which construction started earlier this year, will increase Abu Dhabi’s reserve capacity from three days (the current reserve capacity) to 90 days.

(c) Policy Guidelines

Moreover, the Abu Dhabi Declaration issued by the 31st Summit of the Supreme Council of the GCC further links water security with energy and food security, and calls for collaborative action to change regional water consumption patterns.

Practical Measures

(d) Installation of water filters
It has planned to install water filters, which would enable consumers to reduce water consumption by up to 50 percent throughout the Emirate by 2013. Now schools are competing with each other to reduce water wastage. In Abu Dhabi, which is building Masdar, the $20bn futuristic city to be run on renewable energy, the environment agency is spearheading a massive drive to reduce water use. More than 2,000 mosques in Abu Dhabi have been fitted with water-saving devices, which are saving millions of gallons of water a year when people wash before prayer. Other UAE states are expected to follow.

(e) Use of renewable/alternative energies mix in desalination of water

Construction of smaller dams would improve rain capture and groundwater recharge, and the use of cloud seeding to enhance rainfall. Moreover, water and wastewater treatment would be turning point in the region. The regional water industry has set to spend an estimate of USD 50 Billion to expand its wastewater, water reuse and service water projects in 2011.

Suggestions

(a) Think globally, act locally by slowing population growth, drastic reduction of pollution, better supply and demand of available water resources along with water conservation.
(b) Declare water security a national interest by gradually imposing reasonable tariffs (e.g. Egypt, the Alexandria Water Company introduced a clever tariff system, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority introduced a slab tariff system a few years ago. The more water people consume, the higher the slab category they fall into, resulting in a higher cost for water).
(c) Paradigm shift is immediately needed in irrigation system especially use of freshwater in agriculture sector in these countries. Abu Dhabi government has already taken a concrete step by introducing necessary legislation.
(d) Introduction of modern irrigation techniques, plastic greenhouses, better crop rotation and other up-to-date technology and practices. Masdar has become sign of inspiration and regional leaders by using renewables mix in the region and around the globe. It has lots of functional plans and projects to overcome this looming problem.
(e) Launch of massive public campaigns about the importance of water, and its optimal utility through education. UAE government and especially Abu Dhabi emirate use to launch public awareness campaigns throughout the country for optimal conservation of water resources.
(f) Bring healthy changes in eating (lesser rice) and the lifestyles (say no to swimming polls).
(g) Develop local food stuff (drought resistant) as these will reduce the need for water.
(h) Develop ecological agriculture adaptable to climate change conditions. Masdar and other related departments are doing their combined efforts to introduce environment friendly agriculture in the country.
(i) Provide financial support to protect the interests of farmers and increase their active participation in alternative energy usages.
(j) Improve the development of new technologies in the agricultural sector.
(k) Develop hybrid crop varieties that use less water to produce the same amounts.
(l) Instead of looking at investments in major exporter nations such as the US, the EU and Australia, the GCC has tended to focus on countries that are geographically close to the GCC.
(m) Desalination drive must be generated through alternative energy mix with dual purpose.
(n) More focus should be on fish farms, a mangrove plantation and fields to produce salicornia, a crop which is also known as samphire, a salad-like vegetable often served with fresh fish. (an advance stage in UAE, Masdar Institute of Science and Technology).

Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan

Most recently, the People’s Republic of China during Communist Party Central Committee (CPC) 18th meeting changed its top leadership and the reins of governance and decision making power has been handed over to Xi Jinping, the new president of China. It fully reflected the will of the Party, which is thriving and full of vitality, and the wishes of the people across the nation. It was indeed biggest shake-up of the party’s leadership in a decade. Xi Jinping is now CPC (of the 82 million-member) general secretary, but also head of China’s army. Hopefully, the giant change will further enhance its awareness of crises, innovation, objectives, and missions on the new journey. The seven new members of China have been selected for the next decade.

China being the 2nd largest economy is immediately needed four consensuses, namely the consensus on reform and opening up, consensus on social harmony, consensus on the scientific outlook on development, and consensus on distinct Chinese characteristics. The new leadership is well aware of these goals which need to be achieved in the days to come.

Objectives

The 18th party congress has set two main objectives in its recent meeting. To achieve these goals the new leadership must ensure an annual growth of at least 7.5 percent for both GDP and incomes in the next eight years. According to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development report (December 2012), titled “Looking to 2060: A Global Vision of Long-term Growth”, China is the 2nd largest economy after the USA may surpass it as the world’s largest economy as early as 2016. So, after successful transition of China, hopes are very high to achieve all desired goals of socio-economy in the country. Objectives are crystal clear which reflect the collective dreams of Chinese people. These are given below as:

Objectives Details
Macro-Economy/GDP Doubling both GDP
People’s per capita/incomes Further substantial increase in per capita income

Personal Dossiers

The given below table shows that the new PSC members are better educated than their predecessors. Both Xi and Li hold PhDs (Xi’s in law from Tsinghua University and Li’s in economics from Peking University). Majority of them are young, energetic.

Names of Standing Committee Age Details
Xi Jinping 59 General secretary, Presidency & head of China’s army
Li Keqiang 57 At present vice premier, to succeed Wen Jiabao as prime minister
Zhang Dejiang 66 At present vice premier and Chongqing party chief, to succeed Wu Bangguo as NPC chairman.
Yu Zhengsheng 67 At present Shanghai party chief, to succeed Jia Qingling as chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).
Liu Yunshan 65 At present party propaganda chief, to oversee party operations and propaganda affairs.
Wang Qishan 64 At present vice premier, is appointed as head of the CCP’s Central Commission for Disciplinary Inspection (CCDI), the party’s top anti-graft watchdog.
Zhang Gaoli, 65 At present Tianjin party chief, to be executive vice premier.
Source: Foreign Ministry of China (2012)

Reshuffling of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA)

During 18th CPC meeting, the high officials of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) have also been reshuffled. The move has also given hints about the reorganization of the policy-setting Central Military Commission (CMC).

New Chiefs Names Age
The General Staff Department (GSD) General Fang Fenghui 61
General Political Department (GPD) General Zhang Yang 63
General Logistics Department (GLD) General Zhao Keshi 65
General Armaments Department (GAD) General Zhang Youxia 67
Source: Asia Times (November, 2012)

In addition to the above table, General Ma Xiaotian, (aged 63) and General Wei Fenghe (58) have also been appointed commander of respectively the Air Force and the Second Artillery (which is in charge of the country’s nuclear armory). The management also named a dozen-odd new deputy and assistant chiefs of the headquarters units as well as the Navy, Air Force and Second Artillery.

Six Challenges

Many regional prominent economists and political gurus pinpoint many short term challenges to newly appointed Chinese leadership. These are given below as:

Challenges Details
Demographic There is shortage of labour force. Cheap workers are no longer exists. The population ages rapidly becoming older.
Social A social fabric is under threat from the widening gap between the urban and rural divide.
Environmental China is emitting more CO2 gases than the US which may create a natural disaster in the future. Ecological balance must be maintained.
Economic In search of new economic model based more on consumption, social services, and higher value-added production and innovation should be mantra of the new leadership.
Political Current political system gradually needs to be revised for the benefit of all stakeholders.
Geopolitical It phenomenal peaceful rise is under threat as the country has become embroiled in a number of quite serious spats with its neighbours and has strained its relations with the US.

Strategic Challenges

Xi Jinping in his first press conference, acknowledged the challenges ahead, including improving people’s livelihoods and tackling corruption, and confidently pledging to overcome them. “Our people have an ardent love for life. They wish to have better education, more stable jobs, more income, greater social security, better medical and health care, improved housing conditions, and a better environment,” Xi said. New leadership may face problems to tackle menace of corruption, losing touch with the people’s concerns, being sticklers for formalities, and a bureaucratic approach adopted by some Party officials is the few national issues

On the national front, new leadership may face socio-economic and political reforms to more transparency in governance structure and steps to curb the prevalent corruption within the society and communist party ranks. Moreover, ageing population, widening rich and poor gap besides environmental issues also require priority attention.

(a) Macro-Economic Sustainability

China’s economic success has lifted 500 million people out of poverty. According to recent official figures of the Japanese government and the IMF (2011-2012), China surpassed Japan and succeeded to become world second largest economy after the US. The country of 1.4 billion souls achieved it after three decades of spectacular socio-economic growth. During this period despite global economics recessions and financial crunches, China’s economy stood firm, stable and sustainable.

In recent years, China has started to reshape the existing global economic order and system by virtue of its growing dominance of international trade, its huge deposits of foreign exchange reserves and United States government debt and its voracious appetite for oil, coal, iron ore and other natural resources.

China has become a major driver of global growth. China the new economic superpower has begun to assert greater influence in Asia, Africa and Latin America by promoting bilateral trade, investments and joint ventures of multibillion dollars. China is also the biggest investor in Central Asia region.

China has continued to climb up the economic league tables by investing heavily in infrastructure and backing a $586 billion stimulus plan in 2009-2010. According to the latest data of the World Bank (January, 2011), China’s economy is forecast to expand about 10 percent in 2011 continuing a remarkable three-decade streak of double-digit growth.

New Chinese model of economic growth

During the recent time of global economic and financial crises the government of China introduced new economic growth model due to which it has succeeded to mitigate the bad effects of ongoing global economic recession on its macro-economy.

(a) Role of the state, concentrates much more on increasing domestic demand for the products of the expanding industrial base.
(b) Relies on building trading ties with the countries in its immediate neighborhood.
(c) Paradigm shift in structure of the economy.
(d) Mega projects of urbanization in order to discourage migration process
(e) Exports-oriented policies and mechanism
(f) Equitable exchange rate management
(g) High levels of domestic savings invested in United States Treasuries.
(h) Active participation of private sector
(i) Renewal of agricultural sector especially in western provinces such as Xinjiang and Gansu.

Yet the economic model that worked so well during the early years of China’s development now needs to change. Economy must be rebalanced to give more weight to consumers instead of investment, much of which is government-led and wasteful. State-owned companies which dominate many sectors need to be opened up to free and fair competition. And, instead of championing these state-owned giants, the government must give more support to small and medium-sized companies, because these are likely to be the providers of future growth and jobs in the days to come.

Due to ongoing global economic recession and global financial crunch, maintaining and sustaining of China’s economic supremacy would be one of the main tasks for the new leaders of China in the days to come. According People’s China, China’s GDP is US$7.3 trillion five times more than 10 years ago. It trailed the US, Japan, Germany, Britain and France in sixth place. China’s growth miracle was built on the export market, which has slowed dramatically as the euro zone struggles and the US remains sluggish. There is a need to reorganize the economy to boost the domestic market.

There is also an urgent need to reduce the widening financial gap between the very rich and the very poor. According to the Economist, per capita GDP has also increased five times from $1,000 to $5,500. GDP growth is on track to exceed 7.6 per cent this year, and reach 8 per cent next year, the trade surplus is set to rise visibly from last year, and investment is likely to outpace consumption in the next few quarters. Issues of structural imbalance namely, the current supportive investment and credit policies to stay largely unchanged need to be revised as soon as possible.

(b) Better Financial Management

Gradual interest rate liberalisation of the past year to be sustained and for the renminbi to strengthen slowly over the couple of years ahead is required. Given the stronger tone of recent economic data, pressure to ease policy has eased.” Easing of monetary policy is appreciated Stimulate domestic consumption must be encouraged at once.

(c) Maintaining of Social Fabrics

The country’s middle class and urban population is rapidly growing and they demand high quality, premium products and services. The export-led model of development is no longer viable. As recent figures show, 9.5 per cent of China’s GDP growth in 2011 came from domestic demand and only 0.8 per cent came from net exports. Concrete efforts should be carried out to maintain the real social fabrics of China for the wellbeing of all the masses.

(d) Reassessing of explosive growth on the expense of environment

China’s explosive growth has created some of the world’s most complex environmental challenges. It is now the world’s biggest emitter of greenhouse gases, accounting for some 29 percent of total emissions in 2011, up by 9 percent from 2010. Climate change is threat to many countries around the globe. Compromise on ecological degradations must not be prolonged any more.

(e) Foreign Policy

The new leadership faces a “stark choice” between focusing more on domestic issues and less on foreign affairs and the “more assertive foreign policy” that had begun under President Hu Jintao over the past two or three years. One China Policy would remain the mantra of new leadership. Commercial diplomacy especially in Africa and Latin America would be intact in the years to come.

Conflicts and crises with the U.S. and territorial spats with Japan and other neighbors have worsened in recent months as the leadership focused on the power transfer which should be first priority of the new leaders. China’s foreign policy towards so-called water disputes is based on principles which reflect its legitimate rights on it. It has been pursuing nonviolent policy to assert its genuine claims on it. Time and again, the government and leaders of China reaffirms its peaceful engagements to resolve these issues with all its neighbors. The recent change in the US foreign policy towards, Asia has already brought paradigm shift in all the stakeholders’ outlook and China is rigorously engaged to dismantle the ill wills of imperialism.

(f) Freedom of speech

Freedom of speech is the perquisite of a decent society and dynamic country. In this regard, Chinese government has already initiated many effective measures in the recent years. China has now a vibrant social media culture in the country. An estimated 40 percent of China’s 1.3 billion population is online. Chinese Weibo and Qzone web pages have grown hugely popular throughout the country. Freedom of speech would be pressing demand to be met in the days to come for the new leadership.

(g) Political Reforms

Every country has its own system of governance depending upon its culture, tradition, historic perspective and the collective will of the people. System is a secondary thing and delivery is the main item for the wellbeing of the people. The delivery system must be free from every kind of dogma, stigma, discrimination and above all undue due advantage in the country. China has its own unique system of governance and delivery which has already achieved wonders in every sphere of life. Politics stands for rapid economic development in the age of globalization 3.0. Politics stands for qualitative life and protection of basic necessities of life. Chinese government is doing its best effort to match with the increasing demands of political liberalization and articulation in the country.

Gradual political reforms would be good for the leaders and people of China during the next decade. In this regard, the new leadership may face pressing challenges from an increasingly politically conscious and activist public at large.

(h) Reallocation of Water Resources

Water is a strategic asset. Water is life and has multiplier effects. Blue gold has changed the parameters of national priorities and vested interests of foreign policy. Easy and smooth supply of clean drinking water is an emerging problem in some parts of China. The new leadership may face gigantic task to overcome this emerging socio-economic problem.

Dynamic and Vibrant China

China adopted foreign-capital-led, export-oriented industrialization model more than 30 years ago which is now paying the dividends. Moreover, the model of foreign capital-dependent, export-oriented industrialization is now at the center of debate in the party and government

Although, GDP remained less than 8 percent but future prospects are very bright and healthy. It is an urgent need to have more harmonious society and balanced economic growth model for the years to come. In the past, its economic development traditionally favoured the city over the countryside and the coasts over inland regions. During the previous years, China’s coastal provinces accounted for 61 percent of the country’s economic output. Heavy investment in inland provinces has helped to achieve a balanced growth strategy due to which share of GDP was 58.5 percent last year. Urban incomes also outpaced rural incomes under Deng’s rule and in the latter half of Jiang’s reign. By 2008 rural incomes averaged less than 30 percent of urban disposable incomes. Since then, according to official figures (2011-2012) rural incomes have regained some ground. Mr Hu also sought more balanced growth. But his efforts to expand the role of household consumption failed. Its share of GDP averaged an astonishingly low 37 percent from 2003 to 2011, compared with 46 percent during Mr Jiang’s term.

Concluding Remarks

China has more than 5000 years old civilization based on the principles of survival, striving and thriving, honesty and dedication. China is the land of Confucius, pioneer of uprightness in the realms of civility, politics, law and business. China represents the collective wisdom of its diversified cultures, factions and philosophies. It is the ideal combination of traditions and modernity, struggle and service and the last but not the least, competition and competency. It is the great country where humanity meets with spirituality to surpass the genie of innovativeness.

It seems that China’s socio-economic vibrancy, go-political prominence and geo-strategic supremacy will depend on Xi Jinping visionary capabilities. President Xi will need to promote the concept of institutionalised checks and balances within the CPC for increased political transparency and address China’s economic issues such as the growing income disparities, inflation, a property bubble and the rapid expansion of giant state-owned monopolies at the expense of the private sector.

Xi Jinping will also need to manage the growing economic disparity between Chinese citizens. Certain major socioeconomic groups, including farmers, migrants, the urban poor and elderly often find themselves increasingly marginalised as a result of China’s rapid economic growth which needs to be revised as soon as possible.

China like any other economic superpower confronts different short and long term problems such as: shortages of natural resources, environmental degradation, the side effects of large-scale urbanisation, the prospect of an ageing society, inadequate healthcare and social welfare, public concerns about food and product safety, tensions between the central and local governments and ethnic conflicts which must be foremost priorities of the new leadership and hopefully, President Xi Jinping and his team can easily resolve these issues in the days to come.