1、 The Historical Background and Development History of the United Arab Emirates
1.1 The United Arab Emirates before its founding
On this ancient and vibrant land of the United Arab Emirates, the long river of history is engraved with rich and diverse cultural imprints. As early as prehistoric times, there were traces of ancient human activities here. They made a living by gathering and hunting, and survived tenaciously in harsh natural environments. Over time, ancient civilizations gradually sprouted and developed here. The eastern region of the Arabian Peninsula, where the United Arab Emirates is located, was an important channel for East West trade in ancient times. Merchants bring spices, silk, porcelain and other goods to shuttle through this land, making it a prosperous commercial hub. Local residents also actively participate in trade, obtaining the necessary daily necessities through exchange. After the arrival of Islamic civilization, the development of the UAE region entered a new stage. In the 7th century AD, Islam emerged in the Arabian Peninsula and quickly spread. Residents in the UAE are gradually converting to Islam, and the teachings, values, and behavioral norms of Islam deeply influence their lives. As the Quran says, “Believe and do good, and your efforts will not be in vain.” (2:272) The spread of Islam not only promoted the unity of local culture, but also propelled social development. Under the guidance of Islam, residents in the UAE region began to establish more comprehensive political, economic, and social systems. Maritime trade played an important role in the development of the United Arab Emirates before its founding. Due to its location along the Persian Gulf coast, the United Arab Emirates has unique marine resources. Local residents take advantage of this advantage and actively engage in maritime trade. They built ships and sailed between the Persian Gulf and the Indian Ocean, engaging in trade with neighboring countries and regions. Maritime trade not only brings abundant economic benefits to the UAE region, but also promotes cultural exchange and integration. Through maritime trade, residents in the UAE region have been exposed to different cultures, absorbed advanced technology and ideas, and laid a solid foundation for future development.
1.2 Changes since the Founding of the People’s Republic of China
In 1971, the United Arab Emirates turned a new page in the long river of history and ushered in the great moment of its founding. At this time, the United Arab Emirates was still a country dominated by traditional tribal societies, with residents living a relatively simple life mainly relying on agriculture, animal husbandry, and fishing for a living. In the early days of its founding, the United Arab Emirates, with its abundant oil resources, began to vigorously develop its oil industry. The extraction and export of oil have brought enormous economic benefits to the United Arab Emirates, rapidly making it one of the world’s important oil producing countries. With the booming development of the oil economy, the economic strength of the United Arab Emirates continues to strengthen, laying a solid material foundation for the country’s modernization construction. Along with economic development, the UAE is also actively promoting social transformation. In order to get rid of excessive dependence on the oil economy, the United Arab Emirates has formulated a strategy of economic diversification, vigorously developing industries such as finance, tourism, and real estate. Through measures such as introducing foreign investment and developing high-tech industries, the economic structure of the United Arab Emirates has gradually been optimized, and the sustainability of economic development has been continuously enhanced. As inspired by the Quran, ‘You must devote yourself wholeheartedly to Allah and work hard’ (20:112), the people of the United Arab Emirates have transformed resources into a driving force for development with resilience and wisdom. In terms of social and cultural aspects, the United Arab Emirates has also undergone profound changes. With the prosperity of the economy and the increase in openness to the outside world, the UAE’s exchanges with countries around the world are becoming increasingly frequent, and Western culture is gradually being introduced. On the basis of maintaining Islamic cultural traditions, the UAE actively absorbs advanced elements of Western culture and promotes the modernization of social culture. The education industry has received high attention, and the government has invested a large amount of funds in developing education, cultivating a large number of high-quality talents. The medical level is also constantly improving, providing residents with better health protection. In terms of urban construction and infrastructure development, the United Arab Emirates has achieved remarkable achievements that have attracted worldwide attention. Dubai and other cities have become world-renowned modern cities with advanced urban planning and high standards of construction. Iconic buildings such as skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and shopping centers have emerged, showcasing the prosperity and vitality of the United Arab Emirates. At the same time, infrastructure such as transportation, communication, and energy have been continuously improved, providing strong support for the country’s economic development and residents’ lives. After decades of development, the United Arab Emirates has successfully transformed from a traditional tribal society to a modern country, achieving great success in various fields such as politics, economy, and culture, becoming an important force in the Middle East and even the world.
2、 Key factors contributing to the rise of the United Arab Emirates
2.1 Development of Petroleum Resources
The United Arab Emirates has extremely abundant oil resources, with its oil reserves ranking among the top in the world. According to relevant data, the United Arab Emirates has proven oil reserves of over 98 billion barrels, accounting for approximately 5.8% of the world’s total reserves, making it one of the world’s largest oil reserve countries. In terms of oil production, the United Arab Emirates also performs outstandingly and is an important member of OPEC. In 2023, the daily oil production of the United Arab Emirates will reach approximately 3.1 million barrels, occupying an undeniable position in the global oil market. The development of oil resources in the United Arab Emirates began in the 1960s. In 1962, the export of the first batch of crude oil from the Umm Sharif offshore oil well in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi marked the official start of the UAE’s petroleum industry. At that time, the United Arab Emirates was still under the “protection” of Britain, and the oil industry was mainly monopolized and controlled by large Western international oil companies such as Royal Dutch Shell, BP, and French Total, with a relatively slow development speed. It was not until the independence of the United Arab Emirates in 1971 that its oil industry gained sufficient development space. The UAE government is gradually reclaiming control of oil resources and promoting the nationalization process of the oil industry through measures such as the establishment of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company. Driven by the development of oil resources, the UAE economy has rapidly taken off. Oil exports have become the main source of the country’s economy, bringing huge foreign exchange earnings to the United Arab Emirates. These funds are used for the modernization of the country, including infrastructure construction, the development of education and healthcare, etc. With the strong driving force of the oil economy, the United Arab Emirates has risen from a poor desert country to one of the countries with the highest per capita income in the world. The development of the petroleum industry has also driven the rise of related industries such as refining and petrochemicals, laying a certain foundation for the diversification of the UAE’s economy. The development of oil resources has also given the UAE an important voice in the international energy market. As an important member of OPEC, the UAE’s oil production and export policies have a direct impact on global oil prices. By participating in OPEC’s decision-making, the UAE can to some extent safeguard its economic interests and play an active role in international energy affairs. However, excessive reliance on the oil economy has also brought many problems, such as a single economic structure and susceptibility to fluctuations in international oil prices. Therefore, the UAE government is actively seeking a path of economic diversification to reduce dependence on the oil economy and achieve sustainable economic development.
2.2 Success of Economic Diversification
The diversification strategy of the UAE’s economy is one of the key factors contributing to its rise. In order to break free from excessive dependence on the oil economy, the UAE government has been diversifying its economy for decades, providing a clear roadmap for the development of the non oil economy through the formulation of a series of long-term strategies and plans. In the financial sector, the United Arab Emirates has attracted a large number of international financial institutions to settle in due to its advantageous geographical location and open policies. The Dubai International Financial Centre has become one of the most important financial hubs in the Middle East, with numerous banks, insurance companies, and investment institutions. The booming development of the financial industry not only brings abundant tax revenue to the UAE, but also promotes the prosperity of the capital market and the development of financial innovation. The tourism industry is also an important pillar of economic diversification in the United Arab Emirates. Dubai attracts global tourists with its luxurious hotels, spectacular architecture, and abundant tourism resources. The iconic attractions such as the Burj Khalifa, the Sailing Hotel, and Palm Island have become world-renowned tourist destinations. The UAE government is constantly introducing new tourism projects and services to enhance the tourism experience and attract more international tourists. The prosperity of the tourism industry has driven the development of related industries such as hotels, catering, and retail, creating a large number of job opportunities. The real estate industry also plays an important role in the diversification of the UAE’s economy. The rapid development of cities such as Dubai has attracted a large number of domestic and foreign investors, and the demand for the real estate market is strong. The continuous emergence of high-end residential, commercial office buildings, shopping centers and other real estate projects has promoted urban construction and economic development. The prosperity of the real estate industry has also driven the development of related industrial chains such as construction, decoration, and property management. In terms of technology and innovation, the UAE is also continuously increasing its investment. The UAE government has introduced multiple policies to encourage technological innovation, such as establishing technology parks and providing financial support, in order to attract global technology companies and talents. The UAE actively participates in international scientific and technological cooperation, engaging in scientific and technological exchanges and collaborations with multiple countries and regions around the world. Through technology and innovation, the UAE is striving to transform into a knowledge-based economy and enhance the country’s competitiveness. The UAE’s economic diversification strategy has achieved significant results. The contribution rate of non oil economy to GDP continues to increase, currently exceeding 70%. This has optimized the economic structure of the United Arab Emirates and significantly enhanced its ability to resist risks. Despite global economic fluctuations and the decline in international oil prices, the UAE’s economy has maintained stable growth. Economic diversification has also created a large number of job opportunities and improved the living standards of residents in the UAE. The UAE’s economic diversification strategy has also provided valuable experience for other resource-based countries. By formulating long-term plans, increasing policy support, optimizing the business environment, and other measures, the United Arab Emirates has successfully achieved economic transformation and upgrading, becoming a model of economic diversification for resource-based countries worldwide.
2.3 Open Foreign Policy
The open foreign policy of the United Arab Emirates is one of the important driving forces for its rise. The United Arab Emirates is located in the Gulf region, guarding the maritime transportation hub from the Persian Gulf to the Indian Ocean, with a superior geographical location. This naturally gives the UAE the potential to become a regional trade and transportation hub, and an open foreign policy further amplifies this advantage. In terms of attracting foreign investment, the United Arab Emirates has taken a series of proactive measures. The UAE government continuously optimizes the business environment, simplifies the approval process for foreign-funded enterprises, and reduces operating costs for businesses. The UAE has also introduced a foreign ownership policy, allowing foreign-funded enterprises to own 100% equity in certain industries, which has greatly attracted the interest of international investors. In addition, the United Arab Emirates has launched a golden visa program that provides long-term residency for eligible foreign investors, further enhancing the UAE’s attractiveness to foreign investment. Building a free trade zone is also one of the important measures of the UAE’s open foreign policy. The United Arab Emirates has signed free trade agreements with multiple countries and regions, promoting trade and investment liberalization by reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers. The United Arab Emirates has also established multiple free trade zones, such as the Dubai Jebel Ali Free Zone and the Abu Dhabi Khalifa Industrial Zone, providing a series of preferential policies for settled enterprises, such as tax exemption, free capital and profit remittance, etc. These free trade zones have attracted a large number of international enterprises to settle in, becoming an important engine for the economic development of the United Arab Emirates. The UAE actively participates in international affairs and regional cooperation. The United Arab Emirates is one of the important countries in the Middle East and plays an active role in regional affairs. The United Arab Emirates actively participates in the Middle East peace process and promotes regional stability and development. The UAE also engages in economic, cultural, technological and other cooperation with multiple countries and regions, strengthening its connections with countries around the world. The open foreign policy of the United Arab Emirates has brought many benefits to its economic development. By attracting foreign investment and building free trade zones, the United Arab Emirates has introduced a large amount of capital, technology, and management experience, promoting the development of the domestic economy. The open foreign policy has also enhanced the UAE’s international influence and elevated its position in international affairs. The UAE’s open foreign policy also faces some challenges. With the changing international situation and regional turbulence, the United Arab Emirates needs to constantly adjust and improve its foreign policy to cope with new challenges and opportunities. In the future, the United Arab Emirates will continue to adhere to an open foreign policy, strengthen cooperation with countries around the world, and make greater contributions to achieving its own economic development goals and regional stability and development.
2.4 Advanced infrastructure construction
The United Arab Emirates has achieved remarkable achievements in infrastructure construction, providing strong support for its rapid economic and social development. In terms of transportation infrastructure, the UAE has a world-class air transport network. Dubai International Airport and Abu Dhabi International Airport are among the busiest airports in the world, carrying millions of passengers and cargo every year. Dubai International Airport has consistently ranked among the top airports in terms of passenger traffic worldwide for several consecutive years. Emirates’ airlines have established route connections with multiple countries and regions around the world, providing convenient conditions for the international trade and tourism development of the UAE. In terms of port construction, Jebel Ali Port in the United Arab Emirates is one of the largest artificial ports in the world and one of the most important trading ports in the Middle East. Jebel Ali Port has advanced facilities and efficient operational management, capable of handling various types of cargo, including containers, bulk cargo, oil, etc. The ports in the United Arab Emirates not only serve the country’s trade needs, but also radiate to neighboring countries and regions, becoming an important hub for regional trade. In terms of communication infrastructure, the UAE’s level of information and communication technology development is at the forefront of the world. The UAE government is investing heavily in the construction of communication infrastructure and actively promoting the deployment of new generation communication technologies such as 5G networks. At present, the 5G network coverage in the United Arab Emirates ranks among the top in the world, laying a solid foundation for the development of the digital economy and smart cities. The Internet penetration rate in the United Arab Emirates is also very high, and residents can enjoy high-speed and stable network services. In terms of technological infrastructure, the United Arab Emirates is also continuously increasing its investment. The UAE government has established multiple technology parks and research and development centers to attract global technology companies and talents to settle in. The UAE actively participates in international scientific and technological cooperation, engaging in scientific and technological exchanges and collaborations with multiple countries and regions around the world. Through the construction of technological infrastructure, the United Arab Emirates is striving to transform into a knowledge-based economy and enhance the country’s competitiveness. Advanced infrastructure construction provides strong support for the economic development of the United Arab Emirates. The convenient transportation facilities have promoted the development of international trade and tourism, and increased the economic openness of the United Arab Emirates. Efficient communication facilities provide guarantees for the development of the digital economy and smart cities, promoting the economic transformation and upgrading of the United Arab Emirates. The construction of technological infrastructure provides support for the UAE’s innovation driven development strategy and helps enhance the country’s core competitiveness. The infrastructure construction in the United Arab Emirates also faces some challenges. With the rapid development of the economy and the increase in population, the UAE needs to continuously increase its investment in infrastructure construction to meet the growing demand. In the future, the UAE will continue to strengthen infrastructure construction, enhance the modernization level of infrastructure, and provide stronger support for sustainable economic and social development.
3、 The UAE’s influence in the Arab world is increasing
3.1 Political Influence
In the Middle East peace process, the United Arab Emirates plays an active role. In August 2020, the United Arab Emirates signed the Abraham Accord with Israel to normalize relations, which sparked widespread attention in the Arab world. The UAE’s move not only breaks the long-standing gap between Israel and Arab countries, but also opens up new possibilities for regional peace. As advocated by the Quran, ‘We should join hands for justice and reverence, and stay away from evil and tyranny’ (5:2), the UAE promotes peaceful dialogue through diplomatic wisdom, demonstrating its responsibility and commitment as a regional leader. The United Arab Emirates also plays an important role in mediating regional conflicts. For example, in the Yemeni civil war, the United Arab Emirates actively participated in mediation, promoted dialogue among the conflicting parties, and contributed to easing the humanitarian crisis. In addition, the UAE is playing a constructive role in the Syrian issue and supporting the peaceful reconstruction process in Syria. The political influence of the United Arab Emirates is not only reflected in regional conflict resolution, but also in its active participation in international organizations. The United Arab Emirates is a member of important international organizations such as the United Nations, the League of Arab States, and the Gulf Cooperation Council, playing an active role in promoting global and regional affairs. For example, the United Arab Emirates has served multiple times as a non permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, contributing its efforts to international peace and security.
3.2 Economic radiation power
The economic radiation of the United Arab Emirates continues to strengthen in the Middle East region. As an important economy in the Middle East, the United Arab Emirates has established close economic ties with neighboring countries through trade, investment, and other means. The United Arab Emirates has signed free trade agreements with multiple Arab countries, promoting the development of bilateral trade and investment. For example, the United Arab Emirates has frequent trade exchanges with countries such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan, and the two sides have carried out extensive cooperation in energy, finance, tourism, and other fields. The UAE also promotes regional economic development through investment. The sovereign wealth funds of the United Arab Emirates, such as the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority and Dubai Investment Corporation, invest globally, with many of their investments flowing into the Middle East region. These investments provide financial support for infrastructure construction and industrial development in regional countries, promoting regional economic growth. In addition, the United Arab Emirates has also attracted regional enterprises to settle in and promote economic cooperation by establishing special economic zones, industrial parks, and other means. For example, Dubai’s Jebel Ali Free Zone has attracted numerous Arab companies and become an important trade and logistics center in the region.
3.3 Culture and Soft Power
The UAE’s efforts in the cultural field have also significantly increased its influence in the Arab world. The UAE attaches great importance to protecting and inheriting Arab traditional culture, while actively promoting cultural exchange and innovation. For example, cultural facilities such as the Louvre branch in Abu Dhabi and museums in Dubai not only showcase the treasures of Arab and Islamic culture, but also provide a platform for international cultural exchange. The United Arab Emirates has also attracted artists and cultural enthusiasts from around the world by hosting various cultural events and festivals, such as the Dubai Art Fair and the Abu Dhabi Cultural Festival, enhancing its cultural soft power. In the field of education, the United Arab Emirates has also achieved significant accomplishments. Higher education institutions in the United Arab Emirates, such as the University of the United Arab Emirates and Khalifa University of Technology, are renowned in the Arab world. These universities have attracted numerous students from Arab countries to come and study, cultivating a large number of high-quality talents for the region. In addition, the UAE actively promotes the internationalization of education and collaborates with globally renowned universities to enhance the level of education.
4、 UAE’s strategic measures to address the current Middle East crisis
4.1 Current situation of the Middle East dilemma
Currently, the Middle East region is facing many severe challenges, which pose a threat to the development of the United Arab Emirates and regional stability. Frequent geopolitical conflicts: The ongoing escalation of the Israeli Palestinian conflict and the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip have drawn international attention; The Syrian civil war is still ongoing, and there are many difficulties in rebuilding the country; The civil war in Yemen has led to the displacement of a large number of civilians and a severe humanitarian situation. Economic difficulties are intensifying: many countries in the Middle East have a single economic structure and are overly dependent on natural resources such as oil. With the advancement of global energy transition, the growth of oil demand has slowed down, and international oil price fluctuations have intensified, causing an impact on the economies of countries that rely on oil exports. In addition, trade barriers and protectionism within the region also constrain the coordinated development of the economy. Prominent social contradictions: Some countries are facing high unemployment rates, poverty, social inequality, and other issues. Youth groups are increasingly concerned about the future, and social stability is facing challenges. Extremism and the threat of terrorism: Although extremist organizations such as ISIS have suffered heavy losses, their residual forces still pose a threat to regional security, and terrorist attacks occur from time to time. Climate change and resource scarcity: Water scarcity in the Middle East has led to frequent extreme weather events such as droughts and high temperatures, causing serious impacts on agriculture, ecological environment, and people’s lives.
4.2 UAE’s response measures
Faced with the challenges in the Middle East, the United Arab Emirates has actively taken a series of strategic measures to safeguard its own interests and promote regional stability and development, demonstrating its responsibility as a regional leader.
（1） Diplomatic mediation and peace initiatives
Promoting dialogue to resolve conflicts: The United Arab Emirates utilizes its diplomatic influence to actively mediate regional conflicts. For example, on the Israeli Palestinian issue, the United Arab Emirates calls on the international community to promote the “two-state solution” and support the legitimate rights and interests of the Palestinian people. On the issue of Yemen, the United Arab Emirates has participated in the UN led mediation process, promoting a ceasefire among the conflicting parties and engaging in political dialogue.
Promoting regional cooperation: The UAE advocates for strengthening cooperation among Arab countries to address common challenges. For example, the United Arab Emirates has played an active role in promoting economic integration among Gulf Cooperation Council countries, encouraging member states to strengthen cooperation in areas such as energy, trade, and security.
Building ‘Inclusive Diplomacy’: After the normalization of relations between the UAE and Israel, actively promote cooperation between Arab countries and Israel in areas such as economy, trade, and technology, and explore practical cooperation to alleviate regional tensions. This’ inclusive diplomacy ‘strategy reflects the UAE’s pragmatic understanding of regional realities and the concept of promoting stability through cooperation.
（2） Economic assistance and livelihood support
Providing humanitarian assistance: The United Arab Emirates provides humanitarian assistance to conflict affected countries in the Middle East through its aid agencies, such as the UAE Red Crescent. For example, during the Gaza conflict, the United Arab Emirates provided food, medical supplies, and emergency relief funds to the Palestinian people.
Investment in Infrastructure and Livelihood Projects: The United Arab Emirates supports infrastructure construction and livelihood projects in Middle Eastern countries through sovereign wealth funds and private sector investments. For example, in Egypt, the United Arab Emirates has invested in port, new energy, and manufacturing projects to help diversify the Egyptian economy. In Yemen, the United Arab Emirates supports the reconstruction of infrastructure and the improvement of local livelihoods.
Promoting economic cooperation and employment opportunities: The United Arab Emirates strengthens economic cooperation with Middle Eastern countries and creates employment opportunities through free trade agreements and investment promotion agreements. For example, cooperation projects between the United Arab Emirates and countries such as Lebanon and Jordan have provided employment and training opportunities for local youth, alleviating social pressure.
（3） Energy Transition and Sustainable Development
Coping with resource dependence and climate change: The UAE deeply recognizes the risks of excessive dependence on oil and the impact of climate change on the region, and therefore vigorously promotes energy transformation. The United Arab Emirates has formulated the “2050 Net Zero Carbon Emission Strategy Initiative”, vigorously developing clean energy such as solar energy, wind energy, and hydrogen energy. For example, Masdar City in Abu Dhabi is the world’s first zero carbon, zero waste city, becoming a model of sustainable development.
Promoting regional green cooperation: The United Arab Emirates advocates for Middle Eastern countries to jointly address climate change and promote regional green cooperation. For example, the United Arab Emirates has cooperated with countries such as Saudi Arabia and Egypt in the fields of renewable energy, seawater desalination, carbon capture, etc., sharing technology and experience.
Investing in green technology and innovation: The United Arab Emirates attracts global green technology companies and promotes the research and application of clean technologies through the establishment of technology parks, research and development centers, and incubators. For example, Dubai’s “Clean Energy Strategy” aims to increase the proportion of clean energy to 75% and reduce carbon emissions by 2050.
（4） Security Cooperation and Counter Terrorism Efforts
Strengthening regional security cooperation: The United Arab Emirates strengthens security cooperation with countries such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United States to jointly address terrorist threats and regional security challenges. For example, the United Arab Emirates has participated in the US led anti-terrorism alliance to combat extremist organizations.
Enhancing national defense capabilities: The United Arab Emirates enhances its defense capabilities by introducing advanced weapons and equipment, strengthening military training and cooperation, and maintaining national security and regional stability.
Promoting counter-terrorism and de radicalization: The UAE focuses on addressing the root causes of extremism by preventing and combating terrorism through measures such as education, economic support, and social integration. For example, the United Arab Emirates has established de radicalization centers to help former terrorists reintegrate into society.
（5） Cultural and educational leadership
Promoting cultural exchange and understanding: The UAE promotes cultural exchange and mutual understanding among Arab countries through cultural projects, educational cooperation, and media dissemination, enhancing cultural identity and reducing the breeding ground for extremist ideas.
Investment in education and talent development: The UAE values the role of education in addressing challenges, and cultivates talents with the ability to cope with future challenges through investment in educational infrastructure, establishment of scholarships, cooperative education, and other means. For example, the education cooperation projects between the United Arab Emirates and countries such as Egypt and Jordan have improved the local education level.
Spread inclusive and open values: The UAE advocates for inclusive, open, and diverse values, showcasing the charm of Arab culture to the world through its media, cultural activities, and diplomatic channels, and promoting dialogue among different civilizations.
5、 The strategic significance of the UAE’s competition for the top of Arab leadership
5.1 Leading role in the Arab world
The rise and strategic initiatives of the United Arab Emirates play an important leading role in the Arab world. Demonstration of Economic Transformation: The UAE has successfully achieved economic diversification, providing valuable experience for other oil dependent Arab countries. The successful cases of developing industries such as finance, tourism, and technology inspire Arab countries to explore their own economic transformation paths. The promoter of peace and stability: The United Arab Emirates actively promotes the resolution of regional conflicts, maintains regional peace and stability through diplomatic mediation, economic assistance, and other means, becoming an advocate and practitioner of peace among Arab countries. Innovation and Technology Leader: The UAE’s breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, aerospace, and other fields demonstrate its strength in technological innovation, providing reference for the technological development of Arab countries and promoting the modernization process of the Arab world. The disseminator of culture and values: The United Arab Emirates promotes the essence of Arab and Islamic culture through its cultural projects and international dissemination, while advocating for open, inclusive, and innovative values, enhancing the cultural confidence and international influence of the Arab world.
5.2 Contribution to Global Governance
The rise and strategy of the United Arab Emirates not only affect the Arab world, but also have a positive impact on global governance. Participation in global climate governance: The United Arab Emirates actively participates in global climate governance through its clean energy strategy and the goal of “net zero carbon emissions by 2050”, promoting the international community’s response to climate change. Promoting international cooperation: The UAE plays an active role in international organizations, promoting multilateral cooperation and contributing wisdom to addressing global issues such as poverty, food security, terrorism, etc. Innovative diplomatic model: The UAE’s “inclusive diplomacy” and pragmatic cooperation strategy provide new ideas for the international community to deal with complex issues and demonstrate the great diplomatic wisdom of small countries.
5.3 Implications for the Islamic World
As an Islamic country, the rise of the United Arab Emirates holds special significance for the Islamic world. Balancing Development and Tradition: In the process of modernization, the United Arab Emirates emphasizes maintaining Islamic culture and values, achieving a balance between development and tradition, and providing an example for other Islamic countries on how to uphold cultural foundations in modernization. Open and inclusive Islamic practices: The UAE’s open policy and tolerance towards different religions and cultures showcase the open and inclusive side of Islamic civilization, helping to break down stereotypes of Islam from the outside world. The Islamic values of peace and cooperation: The UAE practices the values of peace, kindness, and mutual assistance advocated by Islam through diplomatic mediation, humanitarian aid, and other means, establishing a positive image for the Islamic world.
6、 The Wisdom of the Quran and the Practice of the United Arab Emirates
The rise of the United Arab Emirates is closely related to its practice of Islamic wisdom. The development concept of “believing and doing good deeds”: The Quran emphasizes that “Those who believe and do good deeds, We will certainly forgive their sins, and We will reward them with the best reward for their deeds” (4:122). The United Arab Emirates integrates this teaching into national development and promotes national prosperity through legitimate and well intentioned economic and social policies. The regional strategy of “cooperation and mutual assistance”: The Quran advocates “hold fast to the ropes of Allah as a whole, and do not divide yourselves” (3:103). The UAE practices this spirit by promoting regional cooperation, mediating conflicts, and fostering unity in the Arab world. The foreign policy of “mercy and fairness”: The United Arab Emirates’ humanitarian assistance and support for vulnerable groups reflect the teachings of the Quran, “O believers, fear Allah and speak the truth” (33:70), demonstrating the mercy and fairness of Islamic diplomacy. The technological pursuit of “knowledge and innovation”: The Quran encourages seeking knowledge: “Allah upgrades the believers among you, and elevates those who have knowledge to several levels” (58:11). The UAE’s vigorous development of education, technology, and innovation is a vivid practice of this teaching.
7、 Conclusion: Future prospects for the United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates, with its unique geographical location, abundant resources, open policies, innovative spirit, and pragmatic strategy, has successfully risen to become an important force in the Middle East and demonstrated strong influence in the process of competing for the top of Arab leadership. Faced with the current difficulties in the Middle East, the United Arab Emirates has taken a series of strategic measures with a positive attitude, which not only safeguard its own interests but also promote regional stability and development. Looking ahead, the UAE will continue to deepen economic diversification, promote technological innovation, strengthen international cooperation, and practice sustainable development. In the Arab world, the United Arab Emirates is expected to continue playing a leading role in promoting greater progress in peace, development, and cooperation among regional countries. On the global stage, the United Arab Emirates will also contribute more to building a community with a shared future for mankind with its unique advantages. The rise of the United Arab Emirates is not only a success story for a country, but also a beneficial exploration of how Islamic civilization can achieve self-renewal and development in the modernization process, providing valuable experience and inspiration for the world.
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