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with prestigious renewable energy project such as Masdar,” explains Dr. Samra-Rohte. “Today the whole world is watching the progress of Masdar City.” Renewable energy technologies currently used in UAE include Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) and photovoltaic, solar thermal technology, solar assisted air conditioning, as well as pilot projects for geothermal and wind energy. In addition to the “green city“, Masdar Power is currently working on two large solar power plants. A high percentage of technology for Masdar as well as services such as feasibility studies are imported from Europe, building on the federation’s well-established, strong trading relations especially in the renewable energy industry. “The strongest import sectors for UAE from Germany include machinery and vehicles, medical technology as well as the food sector as the consumers here show growing interest in bio products and a healthier diet,” says Dr. Samra-Rohte. To be an early mover in the market and to establish strong personal relationships are indispensable for doing business within the emirates, she continues. Companies who have proven themselves as a reliable partner – even in small projects – have a much higher chance to be considered for larger projects in the future. A local presence and an easy access to representatives belong to the main requirements for a successful business in the Emirates. “Patience and flexibility are among the key criteria for everyone seeking to establish a business in UAE,” Dr. Samra-Rohte adds. “Plans and project tenders are volatile and change frequently, so an average of two years need to be invested to establish lasting relationships – as we have a saying here: the Swiss might have invented the watch, but the Arabs invented time.”
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Capital
Abu Dhabi (24°28'N 54°22'E)
Largest city
Dubai
Ethnic groups
16.6% Emirati (citizenry)
(2009)
23.0% other Arabs 42.3% South Asian 12.1% other Asian 6.0% other expatriates
Government President
Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan
Vice President
Mohammed bin Rashid Al
and Prime Minister
Maktoum
Legislature
Federal National Council
Area Total
83,600d km2 (116th) 32,278 sq mi
Water (%)
negligible
Population 2011 (World Bank)
7.890.924
Currency
UAE dirham (AED)
Time zone
GST (UTC+4)
GO GLOBAL UNITED ARAB EMIRATES