H.E. Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Undersecretary of the UAE Ministry of Public Works, outlines his ministry’s current projects.
European Times: What are your ministry’s priorities?
H.E. Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuami: We are working with representatives of the EU to set up an infrastructure-development plan which meets EU criteria. We are similar to the EU in that the EU builds for different countries and we build for different emirates. We want to partner with infrastructure teams in the EU, because we believe this will be beneficial for both sides. We are proud to show the world what we have accomplished. The last five years we have seen a huge difference in the UAE, not only in infrastructure development but also in attitudes. Today, we are thinking internationally, not just locally.
European Times: Can you describe some recent projects?
H.E. Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuami: Through an international tender process, over the past three years we established world-class medical facilities that can be reached from anywhere in the UAE in only 30 minutes. We have made similar advances in education and civil defence. We have been able to continue to develop our infrastructure, including building our Dubai underground system, even during the global economic downturn. We have exceeded our own expectations. We are currently involved in building new housing developments and roads connecting the emirates, and we welcome foreign investment in these projects. Several foreign companies are already involved in building Abu Dhabi’s new international airport.
European Times: What are some challenges you face?
H.E. Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuami: I can think of two major challenges. One is to convince the EU and other countries to believe in us and see us as we are today, and the second is to reinforce our links with other countries so that developments in the UAE will be paralleled by developments throughout the region.
European Times: What about the UAE’s investment climate?
H.E. Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuami: The UAE is a haven for investors, with a very safe, stable investment environment, which is why we have many major investors who have been with us since before the crisis and are still here. In addition, the UAE offers exceptional growth potential. We continued our development programmes even during the crisis and are committed to further progress. The UAE has opened its doors to the world, to every industry, every brand and every market.
