CPHpost UAE supplement 2018 by The Copenhagen Post

UNITED ARAB

EMIRATES U N I T E D I N PR O S PE R I TY, K N OWL E D G E , D E ST I N Y A N D R E S P O N S I B I L I TY

UNITED ARAB UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

U N I T E D A R A B E M I R AT E S

A WELCOME FROM H.E. FATEMA KHAMIS ALMAZROUEI, AMBASSADOR OF UAE IN DENMARK I am very honoured to have the opportunity to present to you this special edition of the CPH POST in honour of the UAE’s national day on December 2. This year marks 100 years since the birth of the Founding Father of the UAE, the late Sheikh Zayed. In his honour, throughout 2018 we are celebrating the Year of Zayed to emphasise and advocate our Founding Father’s vision of prosperity, tolerance and peace. To this day, our country continues to promote the values of Sheikh Zayed, which are wisdom, respect, sustainability and human development. The UAE’s 2021 Vision aims to drive the UAE to be one of the best countries in the world by 2021, therefore six focus areas of government action have been selected: world-class healthcare, competitive knowledge economy, safe public and fair judiciary, cohesive society and preserved identity, sustainable environment and infrastructure, and a first-rate education system. I am very pleased that these visions, values and goals are included in the objectives of the UAE Embassy in Denmark, where issues such as empowerment and the rights of women and girls, countering extremism and terrorism are also Danish priorities. Another important goal for the embassy is to enhance trade relations and investments between our countries. I am delighted that Denmark and the UAE maintain a strong commercial relationship, with a lot of interest from both sides. This was underscored in February this year, when former Minister of Environment and Food, Esben Lunde Larsen, led a large Danish business delegation to the UAE. I was furthermore pleased to host H.E. Mariam Al Mehairi, the UAE’s Minister of State for Food Security, in Copenhagen. Her visit emphasised the potential for co-operation on issues, such as food security and agriculture, from which the UAE can learn a lot from Danish capabilities and innovations in ensuring quality food for all.

From October 2020 to April 2021 the UAE is proud to be hosting the first World Expo in the Middle East, Africa or South Asia. The vision for Expo 2020 Dubai is to include contributions from every nation, from companies large and small, from NGOs, educators and experts from all over the world. We believe that the Expo 2020 Dubai will play a unique role in bringing humanity together in a spirit of peace, understanding, commitment and joint endeavour, and I am looking forward to seeing many Danish citizens at Expo 2020 in Dubai. In 2019 the UAE is also proud to be hosting the World Future Energy Summit, the Special Olympics World Games, and the World Road Congress. These are examples of the Emirati openness and the many diverse opportunities that exist in the UAE. Finally, I wish to thank all of the UAE’s partners in Denmark, from both public and private institutions. I am extremely happy to aid the promotion of the bilateral relations between our two countries, to help strengthen cultural and social relations, and to further understanding between our peoples and countries.

HISTORY

UAE – A MODERN FEDERATION WITH A BACKGROUND IN ANTIQUITY Although the present country was only founded in 1971, people have been living in the area for thousands of years THE ARRIVAL OF ISLAM A major milestone was the arrival of Islam in the area. Amr bin al’As and Abu Al-Ala’a Al-Hadrami – envoys from the Prophet Mohammed – arrived in 630 AD. Amr bin al’As visited Oman and Sohar and brought the Prophet’s message to the kings of Oman, while Abu Al-Ala’a Al-Hadrami visited Bahrain for the same purpose and the region accepted the new faith with alacrity. Islamic civilisation flourished in the Gulf region during the Umayyad Caliphate (661-750) and Abbasid Caliphate (7501258). Sea trade prospered between the Gulf region and other areas in South East Asia and the East African coast. Sources mention trading between the Gulf communities and the merchants of Venice.

Sheik Zayed bin Sultan Al-Nahyan, Sheik Rashid bin Sa’eed Al Maktoum, Sheik Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi and Sir Geoffrey Arthur, a British diplomat in the Gulf, prior to the signing of Friendship Treaty between the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom at the Hospitality Palace in Jumeirah, Dubai, on 2 December 1971 Photo: Al Ittihad Newspaper The present United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation consisting of seven different sheikdoms located on the south eastern coast of the Persian Gulf and the north western coast of the Gulf of Oman. The country came together on 2 December 1971 when six of the emirates – Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah – combined. Ras al Khaimah completed the picture by joining the federation on 10 February 1972. NEOLITHIC BEGINNINGS But if we look much further back, people have been living in the Arabian Peninsula from around 6000 BC. Archaeological excavations reveal that ancient civilisations flourished in the region; traces have been found going back to the Neolithic and Palaeolithic periods (60003500 BC) and up to the end of the Iron Age (1300-300 BC). In the Palaeolithic period, Bedouin communities appear to have lived on fishing and plant collecting. This era was characterised by the emergence of pottery, evidence of which has been found in Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Abu Dhabi.

The Bronze Age period from 3200-1300 BC can be divided into three distinct periods. The first one is the Jebel Hafeet period from 3200-2500 BC, named after tombs found at Jebel Hafeet near Al Ain Abu Dhabi. Then comes the Umm Al Nar period from 2500-2000 BC so dubbed after the monuments found on Umm al Nar Island in Abu Dhabi in the mid1950s. The final pe-riod extends from 2000-1300 BC and has been named the Wadi Suq period after a site discovered there situated between Al Ain and the Omani coast. IRRIGATION AND CULTIVATION During the Iron Age, finds have revealed the first use of irrigation systems that enabled groundwater to be extracted for continuous cultivation in the dry climate. Villages that used the falaj irrigation system have been discovered in the areas of Rumaila and Qarn bint Saud in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, Althegaibah and Umm Safat in Sharjah, and the large fortified settlements in Muwaileh and Tell Abraq in Umm al Quwain and Sharjah.

Islamic power in the Arabian Peninsula remained a significant force until the fall of Islamic Spain in 1492. After that, although the Ottomans who ruled from 1281 to 1924 had limited control over the Arabian Peninsula it dwindled, and from the 17th century, Western European powers started making serious advances in the Gulf region. THE EUROPEANS ARRIVE Several European countries arrived in the Arabian Peninsula; some to explore and others to seek control of the coasts. The Portuguese came first, arriving in around 1498 after Vasco de Gama’s successful circumnavigation of the Cape of Good Hope. By 1515, they had fought their way into the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Oman and established themselves there by force of arms. By 1560 they had established a semi-monopoly in the pepper and spice trades and had taken over the role of intermediary for trading between the ports of the Indian Ocean from the indigenous merchants. Portuguese power waned throughout the 17th century and they began facing competition from the British and Dutch. The Ya’arabi forces ousted the Portuguese from Julfar and Dibba in 1633, retook Sohar in 1643 and recaptured Muscat in 1650.

U N I T E D A R A B E M I R AT E S

Barjeel is the traditional Emirati architecture, distinguished by its deep holes in the walls traditionally used as an air conditioning system, here seen in the Liwa Desert in the emirate of Abu Dhabi.

4 Photo: UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Co-operation

DUTCH AND BRITISH ACTIVITIES Bandar Abbas became the centre of the commercial and political activities carried out by the Dutch and British in the Gulf. However, a falling out took place in 1622 when the British East India Company moved its gulf factory to Bandar Abbas and the Dutch refused to pay them customs duty. Subsequently, the Dutch trading station at Bandar Abbas became more active and successful than the British one. In 1623 the Dutch concluded an extremely profitable agreement in the silk trade with Shah Abbas I and by the 17th century, they had become the dominant naval power in the Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf. However, by the 1750s, Dutch power had weakened due to wars with the British and French and they lost their holdings in most of the Indian Ocean. BRITAIN IN THE ASCENDANCY By 1720s, trade by the British in the Gulf had grown. The British were primarily concerned with asserting their naval power to safeguard trade links to India and keeping any European competitors out. Around the beginning of the 18th century the Qawasim section of the Huwalah tribe had gained power, mainly in Musandam and the northern and eastern areas of the Arabian Gulf. Worried that the Qawasims might interfere with their desire to control the maritime trade routes between the Gulf and India, the British launched a series of attacks that culminated in the defeat of the Qawasims in 1820. A General Treaty of Peace was signed with the sheikhs of the Arab coast and the foundations of a new British policy of “steady control combined with friendly intercourse” was laid. The seven sheikdoms were formerly known as the Trucial States, in reference to the treaty relations established with the British in the 19th Century. These treaties led to peace and prosperity along the coast and supported a lively trade in high quality natural pearls which lasted until the 1930s. A further treaty of 1892 devolved external relations to the British in return for protectorate status. STRIKING OIL The British reign continued for the next 75 years or so during which their interest in the area grew. However, their policy of not interfering in the affairs of the emirates changed – amongst other reasons because of the prospect of discovering oil.

In order to avoid foreign interference, the British retained control over the granting of oil concessions and decreed that no banking concessions would be granted to foreigners. A consequence of signing these oil concession agreements was the necessity to determine previously undefined boundaries, which led to the outbreak of inter-emirates disputes that became particularly crucial after World War Two. As a result, in the 1950s, the British became involved in delineating and marking off the boundaries to meet the security requirements of the oil companies that were exploring in the interior of the Trucial States. THE RISE OF THE TRUCIAL STATES In 1952, the Trucial States Council, a consultative and advisory body of the rulers of the seven emirates, was formed under the chairmanship of the Political Agent to promote the idea of a union among them. In 1965, it was taken over by the rulers themselves giving rise to the Trucial States Development Council and the Political Agent stepped down from the chairmanship in the following year. The council extended its activities to internal welfare and accelerated the area’s development. In the course of its numerous meetings, the sheikhs were able to create a common cause that paved the way for the subsequent emergence of the United Arab Emirates in 1971. The production of oil in Abu Dhabi in 1962, and later in Dubai and Sharjah, placed the area in a prominent position in world economic and political affairs. Rapid development and modernisation generated by oil wealth was accompanied by another significant internal development: the desire for unification. In early 1968 the British government announced its intention to withdraw from the Gulf by the end of 1971. Two of the most influential Trucial Rulers, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan of Abu Dhabi and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum of Dubai agreed to found a federation. The two invited other Trucial Rulers to join the federation. On November 30, 1971, the British left the Trucial States bringing to an end the era of British supremacy in the area. THE UAE TODAY The country came together on 2 December 1971 when six of the emirates – Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah – combined. Ras al Khaimah completed the picture by joining the federation on 10 February 1972.

The original six emirates adopted a provisional constitution and approved Abu Dhabi as the provisional capital. Sheikh Zayed of Abu Dhabi was elected as the first President of the United Arab Emirates, while Sheikh Rashid of Dubai was elected Vice-President; both to serve a five-year term from 2 December 1971. The agreement setting up the federation stipulated that its purpose was to: - cement ties between the members in all fields; - co-ordinate plans for their development and prosperity; - to reinforce the respect of each one of them for the independence and sovereignty of the others; - and to unify their foreign policies and representation, and its higher policy in international, political, defence, economic, cultural and other matters. It further laid down that the Supreme Council would be responsible for issuing the necessary federal laws and that it would be the supreme authority in deciding on issues of reference, and shall take its decisions by a unanimous vote . The new UAE government unified the armed forces in the mid-1970s by virtue of Article 138 of the Constitution, which provides for a unified training and command for the UAE army, navy and air forces. It further provided that the appointment and discharge of the Commander in Chief of these forces and the Chief of the General Staff shall be by a Federal decree and that the Federation may have Federal Security Forces. The UAE enjoys full sovereignty and independence. It has its own flag, coat of arms and national anthem. All UAE citizens carry the unified nationality of the United Arab Emirates, which is recognised internationally. Today, the UAE is a modern country with a highly diversified economy, with Dubai in particular developing into a global hub for tourism, retail, and finance, home to the world’s tallest building, and largest man-made seaport.

Sources: bit.ly/2QSUcr8 bit.ly/2IYysHB bit.ly/2OZ06JM

U N I T E D A R A B E M I R AT E S

S H E I K Z A Y E D B I N S U LT A N

SHEIK ZAYED – NATION BUILDER AND VISIONARY The United Arab Emirates may not have come into being at all without the drive and acumen of this remarkable man This year marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of the founding father of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nayhan. To commemorate this, 2018 has officially been declared ‘The Year of Zayed’ and a series of events – both domestic and international – have been planned to showcase his legacy and promote his values. But who was Sheikh Zayed and how did he come to play such a large part in shaping the UAE? THE EARLY YEARS Sheikh Zayed was born in Abu Dhabi on 6 May 1918, the youngest of the four sons of Sheikh Sultan Bin Zayed. Moving to Al Ain in 1927, early on he developed a passion for traditional Arab pursuits such as falconry, riding thoroughbred camels and horses and archery. Zayed lived in the desert with Bedouin tribesmen, familiarising himself with the life of the people, their traditional skills and their ability to survive under the harsh climatic conditions. In 1928 tragedy struck when his uncle, Saqr bin Zayed Al Nahyan, was assassinated. Zayed’s eldest brother, Sheikh Shakhbut bin Sultan Al-Nahyan, then became ruler of Abu Dhabi. THE RULER’S REPRESENTATIVE In 1946 Sheikh Zayed was appointed his brother’s representative in the eastern region. During the twenty year period he spent in this post, he gained a reputation as a natural-born leader who ruled by example. Zayed established himself as a well-known, popular and respected leader who was eager to listen to all his subjects, and whose decisions were based on consensus of the views of all the various tribes in the region. There were frequent trips to all the corners of the regions so Zayed could keep his finger on the pulse of his people regarding their needs.

He kept an open majli (Arab council), maintained close ties with people and personally oversaw the implementation of reforms. Zayed was described by the famous British explorer and travel writer Sir Wilfred Thesiger in his book ‘Arabian Sands’ as “a strongly-built man, with a brown beard. He was shrewd and sharp-witted, and his manner was quiet but masterful”. Thesiger remarked that “he had a great reputation among the Bedouin. They liked him for his easy, informal ways and his friendliness, and they respected his strong character, his shrewdness and his physical strength. They said admiringly ‘Zayed is a Bedouin. He knows a lot about camels, can ride them like us, is a sharpshooter and a skilful fighter.’” THE REFORMIST RULER OF ABU DHABI The discovery of oil in the late 1950s transformed the economic landscape of Abu Dhabi, ushering in the beginning of its development. In 1962, as the Emirate began exporting oil, it was immediately apparent that an innovative kind of governance was needed to address these new challenges and to optimise the utilisation of oil revenues. The Al-Nahyan family unanimously elected Sheikh Zayed as the new Ruler of the Emirate on 6 August 1966, inaugurating a new phase in the history of Abu Dhabi. Zayed began a program of major reforms. Modern education, healthcare, public housing, and general urban development were all prioritised. He knew that in order for the reforms to succeed, it was vital that his people participated in them and were behind them. Foreign expertise was also drawn on when necessary.

Sheik Zayed Bin Sultan Al-Nahyan and Sheik Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan in 1974, discussing the model of the Islamic city, today known as Emirates University Photo: The National Archive, UAE Ministry of Presidential Affairs Only a few days after assuming office he announced the establishment of a modern formal government, with its ministries and departments. Zayedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s priorities included building new roads, the construction of a bridge to link Abu Dhabi Island to the mainland and the establishment of schools, houses, medical services, a seaport and an airport. In a very short time, Abu Dhabi was transformed beyond recognition. Thousands of local people moved into modern homes. Modern roads were built over the desert and fresh water and electricity supplies were connected to every house. In addition, for the first time the desert Bedouin were also able to receive medical services from clinics. The educational system was overhauled and changed from being a religious-based system to a modern one. Literacy classes were instituted for those who had not been able to receive education in the past. UAE PRESIDENT In 1968, Britain announced its intention to withdraw its bases from East of Suez by 1971. Already from 1952, the seven emirates had been working towards a union of the Trucial States and this decision provided further impetus in that direction. Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai at the time, signed the Al Samih agreement on 18 February 1968 which set the stage for discussions on a possible union of the seven emirates.

Ultimately, this led to the unification of the Emirates under the title United Arab Emirates although Bahrain and Qatar both decided to declare their independence. The UAE was founded on 2 December 1971 and Sheikh Zayed was unanimously elected as its first president for a five year period. Zayed was subsequently re-elected several times and Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum was elected vice president. Zayed kept close eye on the new state, particularly when it came to areas in need of development. As well as that, he prioritised the economy, education, heritage and culture. Thanks to Zayedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s acumen and broad-mindedness, the UAE soon got a good reputation amongst Arab and foreign countries. Security and stability in the region only strengthened its reputation further. GULF CO-OPERATION COUNCIL Sheikh Zayed was a leading light in the foundation of the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC). His vision was to bring together the Gulf countries that shared not only similar economies, but also a history based on common tribal social structures. The GCC charter was signed by the heads of its member states consisting of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates at their first summit that was held in Abu Dhabi on 25 May 1981.

U N I T E D A R A B E M I R AT E S

S H E I K Z A Y E D B I N S U LT A N

“ZAYED REALISED THAT SOLE DEPENDENCE ON OIL WAS NOT A VIABLE LONG-TERM STRATEGY, AS IT WOULD RUN OUT AT SOME POINT ...” MODERNISING THE INFRASTRUCTURE Zayed realised that sole dependence on oil was not a viable long-term strategy as it would run out at some point. He therefore focused on developing the manufacturing sector in the UAE as well. The development of the country’s infrastructure was another pressing issue. From the very start of his rule, road construction, telephone lines and the establishment of national media were recognised as vital to link up the seven Emirates. The new roads, international airports and seaports quickly enabled the UAE to play a prominent role in the modern industrial world and to take its well-deserved place among the world’s most highly developed industrial nations. THE END OF THE ROAD On the 19th of Ramadan 1425 A.H., corresponding to 2 November 2004 United Arab Emirates, Zayed died aged 86. He was buried in the courtyard of the new Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi.

Zayed’s eldest son, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan had been taking an increasing role in government, beginning in the 1980s. Directly after his father’s death, he became the Ruler of Abu Dhabi, and was ratified as the President of the United Arab Emirates by his fellow rulers in the Supreme Council. Sources: bit.ly/2P31T0v bit.ly/2pTXpen bit.ly/2RSR53t

Publisher: CPH POST | Editor: Hans Hermansen Journalist: Stephen Gadd Magazine Designers: Thomas Missmahl & Roann Villarosa Info: hans@cphpost.dk Tel: +45 2420 2411

THE SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE IN ABU DHABI. THE MOSQUE IS ONE OF THE WORLD’S LARGEST, WITH A CAPACITY OF 40,000 WORSHIPPERS AND VISITORS Photo: UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Co-operation

R E L AT I O N S B E TWE E N D E N M A R K & UA E

TOLERANT AND OPEN SOCIETIES WITH FRIENDLY TIES is the third-biggest export market for Danish companies. The major part of the imports from Denmark consists of industrial machinery such as equipment for green technology, medical and pharmaceutical medicaments, IT and telecommunication technologies, as well as dairy products.

H. H. SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM, VICE PRESIDENT AND PRIME MINISTER OF THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES AND RULER OF DUBAI, MEETS DANISH PRIME MINISTER LARS LØKKE RASMUSSEN Photo: UAE Prime Minister’s Office

Denmark and the United Arab Emirates have enjoyed a long and fruitful co-operation dating back many years At present, the Danish Confederation of Industry estimates that around 5,000 Danes live and work permanently in the UAE. However, historical ties between Denmark and the area later to become the UAE started before the emirates became a federation. For example, back in 1958 and again in 1970, Danish archaeologists excavated in Abu Dhabi at the invitation of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

between the two countries. Both are members of the International Coalition against the terrorist group IS in Iraq and Syria and co-operate closely in international institutions and at United Nations levels. A DEVELOPING RELATIONSHIP When it comes to trade, the two countries have enjoyed fruitful trading relations since the 1970s. As the UAE economy has developed, so has the relationship with Denmark.

When it comes to diplomatic relations, formal relations between the two countries can be traced back to 1975. Troels Munk served as Denmark’s first extraordinary and administrative ambassador to the UAE and the first official visit to the UAE took place in the same year. Three years later, a Danish Embassy was established in Abu Dhabi and the UAE followed suit by opening an embassy in Copenhagen.

Figures from the national statistics keeper Danmarks Statistik reveal that in 2017, Danish exports to the UAE generated 3.7 billion kroner, which equates to 0.55 percent of Denmark’s total exports worldwide. The most important export group was pharmaceutical products.

Nowadays, in the field of security, there is strong co-operation

Of all the countries in the Middle East and North Africa, the UAE

Danish exports in general to the UAE rose by 16.8 percent compared to the previous year.

There has also been a royal dimension. Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark has visited Abu Dhabi on two occasions – in 2010 and in 2014. During the latter visit, he was promoting sustainable energy and development in connection with the World Future Energy Summit and visited the Danish stand at the ‘The United Arab Emirates and Denmark – Partners for Global Sustainability’ event. TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY In the last decade the UAE’s exports have diversified away from petroleum to focus on more sustainable commodities. Today, a large proportion of the UAE’s exports to Denmark consist of machinery, manufactured items, aluminium and metals, transport equipment, ceramics and foodstuffs. In February 2018, a Danish delegation visited Dubai with the aim of promoting sustainable Danish solutions within food production and water tech. The Emirates are making considerable investments in technology, waste management and sustainable energy. Denmark has been closely involved in projects in Dubai, a city that has set ambitious goals for sustainability. Among other things, there is a sustainable school, designed by Danish architects. The sustainable city will also include a Green Sport Hub comprising a sustainable sports academy, hotel, retail space, etc. with focus on Danish sustainable materials and solutions. Residential eco-villas are also planned. The Danish Trade Council has also been in dialogue with the water authorities in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah and the Agriculture Center in Abu Dhabi in order to promote Danish solutions for improving water management. As the country at present relies largely on desalinated seawater and bottled drinking water, sustainable solutions are needed within water recycling, smart irrigation systems, water meters and other appliances.

U N I T E D A R A B E M I R AT E S

EXPO 2020

UAE AIMS TO BRING THE WORLD The first World Expo in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region represents an unprecedented opportunity for new business, new ideas and new connections. BY: ROSS MCPHERSON The United Arab Emirates will host the next Bureau International des Expositions’ (BIE) World Expo in Dubai in 2020, under the theme of ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’. Expo 2020 Dubai will bring together more than 200 participants, including 180 countries, companies, NGOs and innovators to share ideas and help build a prosperous, sustainable future. Expo expects to record 25 million visits, with 70 per cent of visitors to come from outside the UAE – the highest proportion in the 167-year history of World Expos. The UAE stands as a fast-growing international hub for business, holiday goers and culture. It is often described as being at the crossroads of east and west and is a central city of the MEASA region, an area that consists of the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, and which covers a combined population of 3 billion and hot emerging economies, with a joint GDP of USD 7.4 trillion. Expo 2020 Dubai will be the first World Expo to take place in this region, making the 2020 event a momentous occasion, symbolising the growing influence, importance and future of the region.

THE EXPO 2020 DUBAI SITE IS CURRENTLY BEING CONSTRUCTED AND WILL BE ONE OF THE SMARTEST, FASTEST, AND BEST-CONNTECTED PLACES ON THE PLANET Photo: EXPO 2020 Dubai

WHAT IS A WORLD EXPO? World Expos are organised by the BIE to bring great, forward thinking innovative minds together to share ideas, showcase innovation, encourage collaboration and celebrate human ingenuity. They have a long history of bringing people from all walks of life together. The first one was hosted by the United Kingdom in 1851, where 25 countries attended. Over the years, innovative, world-changing technologies have been presented. For example, the te-

TOGETHER AT EXPO 2020 legraph (1851), typewriter (1876), Ferris Wheel (1893), x-ray machine (1901), electrical outlets (1904) and television broadcasting (1939). THE EVENT LOCATION The Expo 2020 Dubai site has been under construction since 2016, with a unique and beautiful design that reflects the sustainable roots of the UAE and Expo. The site covers 4.38 square kilometres and includes a village that will host the participants’ staff, consisting of residential units, shops, restaurants and cafes for comfort. The site will be one of the most connected places on the planet, physically and virtually. Legacy has been at the forefront of planning since the beginning. At least 80 percent of the Expo-built structures will be transformed as part of a new and exciting urban hub called District 2020. It will continue to be used as a home for forward thinking technology, strategic industries and education. UNIVERSAL THEMES Expo 2020 Dubai’s theme ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’ is based on the belief that innovation and progress are the result of people from different fields and backgrounds, who would not normally collaborate, coming together in new and unique ways to share ideas. Expo 2020 Dubai provides a platform to encourage creativity, innovation and collaboration in line with its three sub-themes: Opportunity, Mobility and sustainability: The organisers stress that: “We will work towards opening new opportunities to individuals and communities to help them achieve their needs today and inspire them to pursue their future aspirations. We will focus on providing easier access to knowledge, markets and innovation by working on solutions and technologies that will facilitate the movement (mobility) of people, goods and ideas. We will strive to protect and preserve our environment for future generations by doing more with less (sustainability).” AN EMERGING MARKET The UAE has 5 international airports that connect more than 300 cities globally. Expo 2020

Dubai will help foster important international networks that will connect people to the MEASA region’s population of 3 billion minds, innovators and young potential. Located within an eight-hour flight of twothirds of the world’s population, Dubai is a gateway between east and west. Home to more than 200 nationalities and benefiting from a youthful and skilled population, it offers a progressive, dynamic and enabling environment in which tomorrow’s leaders can access new technologies and bring their ideas to life. Dubai is the ideal setting for Expo 2020, which aims to offer the world a glimpse of what the future will look like.

“FROM THE BEGINNING, WE ARE DETERMINED TO PUT YOUTH AT THE HEART OF OUR PLANs ...” Expo 2020 Dubai understands that small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) are the backbone of any economy and supports the full involvement of SMEs around the world in the delivery of an exceptional World Expo. Expo has committed to allocating 20 percent of its direct and indirect spend to SMEs. Expo’s USD 100 million innovation and partnership programme Expo Live provides funding, business support and exposure to projects that have a positive impact on society or the environment, or both. With the belief that innovation can come from anywhere to everyone, Expo Live currently supports 70 Global Innovators from 42 countries, including Danish startup Be My Eyes, which is virtually connecting sight-impaired people with sighted volunteers to help with daily activities. A PUSH FOR THE FUTURE Youth have been at the heart of Expo 2020 since the beginning. Expo aims to inspire, educate and excite young people through a variety of programmes. This includes the Expo School Programme, which has connected with more than 40,000 students and 800 teachers from more than 620 schools across the UAE. Educators will also be given the opportunity to attend workshops with experts in the field to make sure students get the most out of Expo 2020 Dubai.

U N I T E D A R A B E M I R AT E S

C U LT U R E & T O U R I S M

UAE : EVERYTHING A TOURIS Art, culture, breathtaking nature and modern cities – the UAE has it all in spades

MEN PREPARING ARABIC COFFEE USING THE TRADITIONAL BEDOUIN METHOD ON THE FIRE Photo: UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Co-operation BY: LAURA GEIGENBERGER In 2020 Dubai, the largest and most populous city in the United Arab Emirates, will host the World Expo. It will be the first time that the famous event has been staged in a Middle Eastern country. In tandem with the upcoming Expo, the UAE has big plans to become one of the world’s leading tourism destinations. While the city of Dubai already leads the way in terms of worldwide fame, much of the UAE’s appeal has as yet gone unnoticed by most travel enthusiasts. Too bad, for the entire UAE offers everything a tourist’s heart could possibly desire – from lots of sun, beautiful beaches and public parks through exquisite cuisines available from all over the world to recreational sites.

A major repository of historical venues, museums and galleries, the UAE contains some of the world’s most interesting mosques, museums and relics from all around the Emirates. And for nature lovers, wild mountain ranges and green oases are the perfect place for sport activities, star-gazing or just to recover after an exhausting day in one of the UAE’s busy cities. Before embarking on a tour through the Emirates, one thing should be clarified: the dress code and tourist behaviour in the UAE. “Actually,” said Fatima Khamis Al Mazrouei, the UAE ambassador in Denmark to Diplomacy magazine, “our country is no different to other western countries regarding dress code.” So there you have it. Decent behaviour, however, is of course only common courtesy – just like anywhere else.

ST COULD DESIRE DUBAI IS A ‘NO-BRAINER’ Every visit to the UAE must begin in the global hub of the Middle East – the city it is most known for: Dubai. The capital of the Emirate of Dubai is located on the Persian Gulf’s southeast coast and has been fascinating the world with its massive construction projects and astonishing architectural wonders. Burj Khalifa has been the tallest building in the world since its topping out in late 2008. The tower’s design embodies the structure of the ‘spider lily’, a regional desert flower which inspired architect Adrian Smith’s vision for the iconic tower. Not only does the structure feature the world’s tallest art gallery as well as lounges, health and wellness facilities, four pools and two observation decks, it also encompasses thousands of square metres of residential and office space. Aside from the stunning view over Dubai in general, the observation decks offer visitors a unique aerial view of the Dubai Fountain. The UAE’s most recently opened structure, the Dubai Frame, is intended as a metaphorical bridge, symbolically connecting the emirate’s past with its present. The accessible building promises spectacular panoramic views across the city from its elevators, a glass walkway and its restaurant, which serves coffee 150 metres above the ground. The city is also home to the second-largest shopping mall in the world by total land area. The Dubai Mall contains an unbelievable 1,200 shops in just one mall! Forget about the fountain systems of Las Vegas! Dubai owns the world’s largest choreographed fountain system. Set on the Burj Khalifa Lake, the 275-metre-long Dubai Fountain is illuminated by 6,600 lights and 50 coloured projectors, and can shoot streams of water to up to 153 metres into the air. The shows are enhanced with classical and contemporary music from Arabia as well as from other countries. To make these spectacular shows even more memorable, visitors can take boat rides on the fountain’s surrounding lakes.

Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building at 828 metres, adjoined with the Dubai mall, the world’s largest mall with 1,200 retail stores covering 1 million square metres. Photo: UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Co-operation

In a city full of world record breaking wonders and awe-inspiring architecture, the artificially created group of islands, Palm Jumeirah, has become one of Dubai’s most intriguing and enticing areas. Due to its shops, hotels, restaurants, and beach clubs, it has become one of the best places in Dubai for relaxation and sun-bathing. Its most essential attractions include, for example, the Aquaventure Waterpark, lessons in windsurfing or kayak tours.

“Every visit to the UAE must begin in the global hub of the Middle East - the city it is most known for: Dubai” 13

U N I T E D A R A B E M I R AT E S

C U LT U R E & T O U R I S M

EXCITEMENT AND RELAXATION FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Whether to relax after the exhausting hustle and bustle of Dubai or to escape the wet and cold winters in Denmark – the UAE offers countless choices for relaxation, fun and entertainment for both singles as well as families. Legoland Dubai and Legoland Water Park are ideal for families with children between the ages of 2-12 looking for a all-year-round theme park destination in the Middle East. The parks are hands-on experiences which allow families to take part in full-day Lego-themed adventures, with interactive rides, water slides, models, building experiences and much more. Overlooking the crystal blue waters of the Arabian Gulf is the luxurious and newly refurbished Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa. With 19 acres of landscaped gardens, award-winning restaurants, three swimming pools, direct beach access, a wide range of recreational activity offers and entertainment for children, the resort is the perfect choice for enjoying a holiday in Dubai. An ultimate family holiday in Dubai must include Atlantis Dubai – the iconic 5-star-hotel and luxury resort on the Palm Islands. Its main attraction, the Aquaventure Waterpark, features 17 fun-filled hectares of adrenaline-pumping and heart-thumping fun that delight kids and adults alike. MOSQUES GALORE There are mosques galore in the UAE, many of which are so ornate and beautiful that they attract and fascinate practising Muslims and tourists alike. However, while tourists are happily invited into most of them, they still serve the main purpose of acting as a place of worship for practising Muslims, so humbleness and respectful behaviour is in order. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in the UAE’s capital city Abu Dhabi, stands out not only as one of the world’s largest mosques, but also by its outstanding design. The mosque’s architects from Britain, Italy and Iraq incorporated a a variety of styles from different Muslim civilizations in its design, thereby creating a truly diverse and inspirational house of prayer. As a celebration of cultural diversity, the mosque’s opendoor policy invites people from all around the world to admire its onion-top domes and the world’s biggest chandelier and carpet, both meticulously handmade, for free. Named after its location in Al Bidya, a village in the Fujairah Emirate, the Al Bidya Mosque was used by locals for their Friday prayer until very recently. This building is different from other Arab mosques as every one of its four domes consist of multiple small domes mounted on top of each other. Decorative carvings, illuminated either by the daylight or by lamps, grace the interior walls.

MADINAT JUMEIRAH RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBOURHOOD OVERLOOKING DUBAI Photo: UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Co-operation WHERE CULTURAL HERITAGE AND MODERN ART COME TOGETHER The rich cultural history of Arabia has also left its mark on the UAE, leaving it with lots of unique cultural experiences for tourists to enjoy. The Qasr al-Hosn is the oldest stone building in the city of Abu Dhabi and is currently the subject of extensive historical, archaeological and architectural research. The fort houses a museum containing artefacts, weapons and pictures that tell the stories of the country’s rich history. To experience what traditional life in Dubai was like during the mid-19th century, one must go the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Located along the Dubai creek, the district is a key heritage site in which much of the original infrastructure, for example traditional wind towers, are preserved. Cultural activities, museums, art galleries, special events and traditional food provide visitors with extensive information about the past – a time when skyscrapers didn’t exist. In addition to its traditional cultural heritage sites, the UAE has also created new possibilities for visitors to experience internationally renowned art and exhibitions. Artists and art-lovers alike will find inspiration in the Saadiyat Cultural District, a unique area dedicated to culture and art on Saadiyat, an island located 500 m east of Abu Dhabi. Unprecedented in scale and scope, it is set to house the world’s largest single concentration of top-drawer cultural assets including for example the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum – both open since 2017 – and soon the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.

The Emirate of Sharja has invested considerable amounts of resources into the building of a strong cultural identity. Its efforts have been rewarded with recognition as the UNESCO’s ‘Arab Capital of Culture’ in 1998 and ‘Islamic Culture Capital in 2014’. Sharjah, where Islamic history has strong roots, is a city-state that can be seen as a gateway to the wonders of Islamic heritage. It is not surprising that it has played host to the world’s most important Islamic art and culture events for many years. TRUE PARADISE FOR NATURE LOVERS The Middle East is more than just flat desert and stones; in fact, it is a true paradise for nature-lovers. Home to nature reserves, mountains and national parks, the government has made it its mission to preserve and protect its unique flora and fauna from the consequences of the UAE’s rapid development as a major business centre. The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR) was the UAE’s first national park. Carefully planned management within the park’s 225 square-kilometres has resulted in a protected environment for the last of the desert wildernesses. The desert reserve was created for the protection of endangered species and for the conservation of the natural desert habitat and heritage. In Abu Dhabi, the 5 square kilometres of wetlands, sands and dunes in the Wathba Wetland Reserve also buzz with life – literally. More than 250 different bird and 37 plant species have been spotted here, as well as a rich variety of both dragon and damsel flies. Found within the city of Abu Dhabi, Mangrove National Park is a dense, luxuriant concentration of mangrove trees pro-

tected by the government. Usually found growing in the sea waters of tropical coastal areas, mangrove trees act as a natural windbreak, protect against tidal surges and purify the surrounding water. The park is thus a haven for all nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts and bird lovers – as well as those wanting to spend some time in harmony with nature. Much can be done in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, home to the tallest mountain in the UAE – Jebel Jais. A key feature of the mountain range is the abundance of wadis and hiking and mountain bike trails. Furthermore, the spectacular Hajar Mountains offer breathtaking sceneries which can be experienced from one of the camping spots or in Bedouin-style camps. For mountaineers looking for a mountain closer to central Dubai, craggy mountain peaks and an untamed environment make the mountain of Hatta the ideal spot for mountain biking, hiking trips and kayaking. The 147,000 date palms of the Al Ain Oasis, part of the Abu Dhabi Emirate, have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011. It was only after the construction of an Eco-Center and an extensive system of shaded pathways that the oasis opened its gates to the public. Another watering place, Liwa Oasis, lies 220 km south-west of Abu Dhabi Island on the northern edge of the Empty Quarter (the Ruba’ Al Khali Desert) and is one of the largest oases on the Arabian Peninsula. Home to dunes of many different coloured sands and date plantations, the oasis is an important contribution to the Emirate’s agriculture. The Abu Dhabi government is currently developing Liwa’s potential as a tourist attraction by establishing communal facilities and amenities in the area.

THE UAE DESERT PROVIDES VAST OPPORTUNITY TO EXPERIENCE MANY DIFFERENT TYPES OF ACTIVITIES. ONE OPTION IS CAMEL RIDING, THE TRADITIONAL BEDOUIN MODE OF TRANSPORTATION, WITH THE CAMEL BEING KNOWN AS THE SHIP OF THE DESERT.

Photo: UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Co-operation