A world centre of excellence

Dubai, as a successful new financial centre, has inevitably been impacted by the global credit crunch, although somewhat later and not as severely as in Europe or America.

Since the collapse of Lehman Brothers in the US last year, the world economy has undoubtedly been in a mess and there has been a significant economic contraction that has affected business and consumer confidence.

That there are financial problems, as in New York or London, is clear — but there is no doubt that the Dubai government will find the necessary solutions with its international partners. The country has supreme confidence in this.

The last few days have, however, drawn some media distortion from certain journalists who are always willing to ‘invent' a catastrophe, where none exists.

I, myself, have advised many senior management teams in Dubai, and the UAE, for over five years. Having worked all over the globe, in a period spanning twenty years — I am today extremely proud of being associated with the extraordinary achievements of the Dubai government.

Dealing on a professional basis with CEOs and executives throughout UAE's industry and the professions, I am constantly impressed with the level of higher education, and the pride that Emiratis and expatriates take in their achievements.

Crime-free environment

Over the past decade, millions have come to Dubai from every continent on the planet — many via Emirates — to see for themselves a true example, the only example, of 21st century architecture and engineering — all within a crime-free environment. Most visitors are hugely impressed. Dubai will survive — leaner but stronger, and will continue to be an exemplar to the world of how to apply modern technology to provide good living.

The author is a BBC guest-broadcaster and Motivational Speaker. She is CEO of an international stress management and employee wellbeing consultancy based in London. Contact them for proven stress strategies - www.carolespiersgroup.co.uk

Facts: Gettingit right

Some of the world's press, may have jumped on Dubai's financial challenges, and in doing so, have ignored many of the facts — ten of the more obvious being:

- The financial crisis and economic turndown are global phenomena.

- Arguably, both the UAE, and Dubai in particular, have fared no differently than other financial centres — possibly better.

-There is an element of schadenfreude in a proportion of press comment.

- Dubai has proved itself to be a centre of excellence and achievement in many fields.

-Its architectural innovation and engineering ingenuity, are the envy of the world.

- The tallest inhabited building, the Burj Dubai, at over 800 metres, is a monument to the most advanced civil engineering technology in the world and a triumph of unsurpassed architectural know-how.

- Hotel accommodation and hospitality are unrivalled in New York, Paris or London.

- The crime rate in the UAE is, compared to Europe or America, non-existent.

- Emirates airline offers the most advanced flying experience.

- Hospitals and medical services in Dubai are of a world-class standard and attract eminent specialists.

The author is a BBC guest-broadcaster and Motivational Speaker. She is CEO of an international stress management and employee wellbeing consultancy based in London. Contact them for proven stress strategies - www.carolespiersgroup.co.uk