The good news is that the Gulf region has two natural resources in abundance—sunshine and oil. Abu Dhabi is leading the way on energy projects by encouraging the use of solar powered energy as an alternative to fossil fuels. Indeed, the first project of this kind has been tendered by a public body in Abu Dhabi and is likely to see the light of day (if you will pardon the pun). Notwithstanding the Emirate’s reliance on solar power and oil, the Emirate of Abu Dhabi have officially commenced the tender process of the Middle East’s first nuclear power plant for peaceful means.

As opposed to the highly publicised property boom which fuelled the growth of the construction industry in Dubai, the construction market in Abu Dhabi is leading the recovery of the construction industry of the UAE for various reasons. First, the Government of Abu Dhabi’s general attitude to borrowing was conservative even before the effects of the liquidity crises were felt. Secondly, Abu Dhabi boasts a solid hydrocarbon reserve. Thirdly, Abu Dhabi has one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds which could help it and the UAE withstand any future upheavals in the financial markets or steep sustained falls in crude oil prices.2

In fact, Abu Dhabi is in the process of implementing an audacious strategic plan to see it through to 2030, involving a new city purposefully built to emit 0% carbon together with the expansion of its suburban communities and associated infrastructure.

Infrastructure projects are likely to become the main driver of the construction market in the coming years with the UAE Government committed to enhancing transportation networks, power and water facilities

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