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GGC economies are not immune to the European banking crisis that has morphed into a European Sovereign Debt crisis
This issue shows that recently growth has slowed down significantly in the EU economies due to the banking and sovereign debt crises. The sharp deterioration in investors' and consumers' confidence is affecting investment and consumption spending. Also, the fiscal consolidation is weighing on domestic demand and the weakened global economic conditions are holding back exports. This EU crisis is most likely to adversely affect the GCC economies through the bank credit channel since the European banks are major source of funding for GCC banks. The issue also analyses the oil prices that are likely to be volatile in 2012 as global economic growth slows and concerns over oil-supplies continue over further tensions in the Gulf.
Published On 18th-January-2012 Author: Economic Research Department
According to Dubai Chamber 2011 Economic Growth Projection Model, UAE & Kuwait affected most among GCC countries from the global crisis
This issue reflects on how financial and macroeconomic stability are interconnected. On the one hand, buoyant economic activity fuels household's income and improves their ability to service debt obligations. On the other hand, financial instability limits liquidity, solvency and profitability of the banking sector. The recent financial turmoil is a reminder of the importance of financial stability for economic activity. At Dubai Chamber, we have developed a single equation regression model to measure the impact of the financial crisis on GCC economic growth. The model is termed Dubai Chamber 2011 Economic Growth Projection Model and addresses the impact of the financial crisis on GCC economic growth (i.e. GDP). The second article reveals that over the last few months, the European Commission and European Central Bank (ECB) officials have emphasized that Greece leaving the Euro is an inconceivable outcome. This however, hasn't stopped the markets from speculating that default is inevitable. The Euro has depreciated against the Dirham and credit default swaps (CDS) have also soared since the beginning of the crisis. This month's article looks at what this means and what lessons can be learned for the GCC.
Published On 12th-December-2011 Author: Economic Research Department
UAE ranks 2nd among GCC countries according to the 2011 Dubai Chamber Macroeconomic Stability Index
After a period of prolonged distress and uncertainty, recovery from the global economic crisis is tentatively emerging. This new phase of the global economy is backed with the mounting concerns about the sustainability of public debt and the high risk of a sovereign default in Europe. The current issue of Dubai Chamber Economist focuses on the finding of our analysis which is based upon three basic pillars. The 2011-2012 Global Competitiveness Report by the World Economic Forum, the 2011 Doing Business Report by the World Bank Group and the World Economic Outlook by the IMF. All the aforementioned global sources indicate that according to the 2011 Dubai Chamber Macroeconomic Stability Index, UAE ranks second among GCC countries.
Furthermore, this issue of the Dubai Chamber Economist also looks at the rebound in major global financial markets and investor sentiment and the possibility of finding long-term investment opportunities the current climate
Published On 20th-November-2011 Author: Economic Research Department
Long-term prospects for global sugar industry
This issue analyses the strong uptrend in world sugar prices, prospects for sugar prices in the future and ways UAE businesses can reduce risks in this environment while availing themselves of opportunities in the international sugar and sugar products market. It also highlights the competitiveness UAE. Based on World Bank's Ease of Doing Business ranking 2011, UAE stands at 40th position in the world.
Published On 12th-October-2011 Author: Economic Research Department
UAE trade with UK valued at AED 19.9bn in 2010
This month's economist looks at the UK's trade with the UAE which was valued at AED 19.9bn in 2010. Approximately 400,000 people are expected to go to London for the 2012 Olympic Games offering an opportunity for traders in Dubai to benefit from the transit trade. Meanwhile, banking lending activity in the UAE is showing signs of stabilizing in 2011. Interest rates are falling leading to lower borrowing costs for businesses and consumers.
Published On 12th-September-2011 Author: Economic Research Department

UAE's Consumer Electronics Market Continues to Thrive
This issue of the Economist analyses the current trends in UAE's consume consumer electronics market .Though, the recent global downturn had significant impact on UAE's consumer electronics market, especially in Dubai, the structural development of the market has remained buoyant. The demand for consumer electronics goods and appliances continues to thrive in the UAE. Also, this issue examines potential investment opportunities in Central Asia on the back of large mineral discoveries and the prospect for Dubai using its strategic position to intermediate between Central Asia and the world.
Published On 4th-August-2011 Author: Economic Research Department
UAE Maintains Globally Competitive Position in 2011
This issue highlights the performance of UAE economy along the competitiveness index (2010-2011). Despite the fact that the UAE has lost two positions compared to the previous ranking, it is the only Arab country which is classified in the category of economies which are driven by innovation.
On the other hand, this issue also explores opportunities in Peru, which its GDP rose 8.8% year-on-year for the first quarter of 2011 largely because of private consumption. Strong growth is likely to continue throughout 2011 making headway for potentially lucrative export market for Dubai traders in 2011.
Published On 7th-July-2011 Author: Economic Research Department
Investment in Morocco offers opportunities and access to EU Markets
This issue focuses on the potentialities of the economic synergy between the GCC countries and Morocco. Long-term collaboration between the two could be best harnessed through Morocco's revealed comparative advantages such as access to European markets; skilled low-cost labour force and stable macro economy.
The issue also highlights how to leverage Dubai's strategic location and take advantage of opportunities in Asia, Europe and the Americas to solidify Dubai's position a global logistics hub.
Published On 7th-June-2011 Author: Economic Research Department
Global bond market developments and impact on UAE
This issue of the Dubai Chamber Economist analyses prospects for UAE investors given global bond market developments including the possibility for UAE companies to lock into historically low interest rates for decades to come. It also analyses Challenges and Prospects for the UAE shipping sector which is recovering in line with the global economic recovery and the expected growth of trade.
Published On 5th-May-2011 Author: Economic Research Department
Challenges and Prospects for the UAE IT sector
This issue of the Economist looks at the improved prospects for the UAE information technology (IT) sector due to possible boom in the earnings of the global IT companies, the proliferation of the social media and high-speed internet that creates long-term growth opportunities. Also, the issue highlights Dubai as one of the most favorite destinations for global investment due to its world class infrastructure, unmatched logistic services and its strategic location and business friendly environment
Published On 7th-April-2011 Author: Economic Research Department
Challenges and prospects for the UAE Telecom Sector
This February issue of the Dubai Chamber Economist looks at the challenges and prospects for the UAE telecommunication sector, especially given the growing demand for internet and related services. The second article suggests that UAE economy is gaining momentum as 2010 closes with improvement in UAE business conditions based on HSBC Purchasing managers index (PMI) for UAE in February 2011.
Published On 13th-March-2011 Author: Economic Research Department
Food Imports: Source Diversification, Supply Shocks, and Food Prices in Dubai
This special issue looks at estimates of food import demand elasticities, food source diversification, supply and food prices in Dubai. It then draws conclusions about the relatedness of Dubai beef import demand elasticity from different sources and countries with the most export potential in the Dubai beef market.
Published On 2nd-February-2011 Author: Economic Research Department
Prospects for Sukuk market developemnt in UAE
This issue analyses prospects for the UAE sukuk market due to global sukuk market growth and opportunities for using sukuk as a source of funding. It also analyses prospect of another spike in oil prices and rebound in overall World demand for energy at the back of the global economic recovery.
Published On 6th-January-2011 Author: Economic Research Department
Challenges and Prospects for Dubai Tourism Sector
This issue looks at the prospects for the UAE tourism sector. It shows that economic recovery has improved prospects for the tourism sector and also highlights some future sources of growth for Dubai tourism . The issue also highlights the prospects of GCC economies rebound to robust economic growth in the short to medium term. Furthermore , it underlines the main challenges and downside risks that may jeopardize GCC positive economic recovery outlook.
Published On 13th-December-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
Fiscal Consolidation in Advanced Economies, Outlook and Implication for Emerging Markets
This issue examines the implications of fiscal consolidation by advanced economies led by the EU, that will take place in early 2011 onward, on the emerging economies and highlights the need for sustained improvement in private investment and public expenditure to create self-sustained growth. It also analyzes Investment Opportunities for Dubai and UAE investors in the growing economy of Turkey, including important sector and privatization opportunities in among others, the Maritime, Petrochemical, IT, Energy and Tourism sectors'
Published On 30th-October-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
UAE Remains Globally Competitive in 2010
This issue examines UAE's competitive position in light of the World Economic Forum's Global Competitiveness Index (GCI) and suggests that the UAE is highly competitive as compared to other economies, in terms of excellent infrastructure, high penetration of new technologies, efficient goods market, macro-economic stability and highly effective government. Also, the issue analyzes UAE-China trade performance and highlights the major products traded which have played an important role in the past. The issue indicates the prospects of general increases in trade in the future.
Published On 30th-Septmeber-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
Current Assessment of Dubai's Realty Market
This issue examines Dubai's realty market at the current juncture and suggests that the decline in rental costs and property prices as well as the new supply of realty expected onto the market in the coming months will improve the emirate's business competitiveness as Dubai is becoming an attractive place for firms to set up and conduct business. Also, we analyse new economic growth forecasts for the UAE which advocates that the UAE has the right core fundamentals in order to grow and expand this year and in the short-term.
Published On 16th-Septmeber-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
UAE Leads Regional Consumer Electronics Market
This issue examines the UAE consumer electronic good market and suggests that firms are increasingly seeing the UAE as a distribution hub of both regional and global significance which can in-turn boost growth in the sector in the long-term. Also, we analyse the UAE?s food and drinks industry which is expected to grow and expand further in the short-term on the back of a strong investment drive in order to cater for the growing population.
Published On 26th-August-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
Dubai's Retail Sector Remains Strong and Competitive
This issue examines Dubai?s retail sector during the economic slowdown and its prospects looking ahead. It is expected that an increase in consumer confidence coupled with the success of the Dubai Metro to lead to a pick-up in consumption levels and thus feeding into higher retail sales growth in the short-term. Also, we analyse the lessons that the GCC can learn from Europe?s single currency union.
ublished On 16th-August-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
UAE Population Growth to Boost Macroeconomy
This issue examines how private consumption is expected to rise following the robust UAE government stimulus which has occurred since the onset of the economic slowdown. Also, we analyse the UAE transport sector and suggest that the long-term fundamentals in this industry are strong and robust.
Published On 29th-July-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
Number of School Students Rises in the UAE
This issue examines the UAE's education sector and suggests that both the number of students and schools rose in 2009 which is clearly indicative of the country's growing concern for strengthening the emphasis on education as an essential ingredient to the development of human capital. Also we analyse the Economist Intelligence Unit's Quality of Life Index which proposes that the UAE has been ranked first in the GCC for the best quality of life across a number of indicators.
Published On 8th-July-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
UAE Economic Growth Prospects Gain Further Strength
This issue examines the new economic growth forecasts for the UAE economy released by both the IMF and the UAE National Bureau of Statistics. The new forecasts reveal clearly that a recent revival of risk appetite on the back of an easing in liquidity conditions, lower interbank lending levels as well as mix of monetary loosening and fiscal stimulus packages has improved the outlook for the UAE economy going forward. Also, we analyse the UAE's maritime sector which whilst facing a challenging period in the short-term, the fundamental outlook in the longer term is stable, with an expected improvement in shipping flows looking ahead.
Published On 4th-June-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
UAE Ranks First in Region for Enabling Trade
This issue examines the 2010 Global Enabling Trade Report published by the World Economic Forum which suggests that the UAE is ranked first in the region for facilitating trade. Also, we analyse a recent report by the World Bank which proposes that the recent fiscal stimulus packages carried out by MENA governments on the back of the economic slowdown will boost domestic growth in the coming years.
Published On 3rd-June-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
UAE Healthcare Sector Outlook is Positive and Upbeat
This issue examines the outlook for the UAE healthcare sector and suggests that favourable reforms will assist in boosting business competitiveness and guarantee an appropriate environment that will strengthen the UAE economy going forward. Also, we analyse recent steps and initiatives taken by the UAE towards green technologies which will reduce the consumption of hydrocarbons in the long haul
Published On 20th-May-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
UAE Private Sector Credit Growth Slows in 2009
This issue examines recently released data from the UAE Central Bank which suggests a tightening of credit available to the UAE private sector and we look at what this means for businesses and individuals alike looking ahead. Also we analyse the implications for the business community of lower expected inflation levels in the UAE over the medium term.
Published On 6th-May-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
Dubai's Core Strengths Remain Fundamentally Sound
This issue looks at how Dubai's core underlying strengths remain fundamentally sound despite the economic crisis and suggests a number of policy recommendations that can be taken in order to enhance the investment climate going forward. Also, we analyse the implications of higher anticipated crude oil prices in 2010 on the UAE economy. In essence, high hydrocarbon revenues will allow the UAE to continue with its large-scale fiscal investments which will reignite aggregate demand and bolster the creation of job opportunities which can in-turn provide a stronger base for the entire economy to grow further.
Published On 22nd-April-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
Dubai's Automotive Market Weak but Outlook is Upbeat
This issue examines the UAE's automotive sector and suggests that with an affluent, high per capita income growing population along with a re-emergence of aggregate demand, the outlook for the industry remains strong going forward. Also, we analyse UAE's trade with Japan and suggest that given Japan's very large imports of hydrocarbons from the UAE, the pick-up in hydrocarbon prices expected this year bodes well for strengthening bilateral trade relations between the two countries.
Published On 8th-April-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
Dubai's Professional Licence Issuance Rises in 2009
This issue examines the rise in the number of professional licences issued in Dubai which is not only expected to improve the tertiary sector's business competitiveness, but has also laid the groundwork for future job creation, increased firm revenue and in-turn overall business growth going forward. Also, we analyse the latest demographic statistics in Dubai which suggest that, contrary to reports, Dubai's population in fact grew in 2009.
Published On 25th-March-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
UAE Ranks First in Retail Environment League Table
This issue examines the resilience of the UAE's retail sector to the economic slowdown and suggests that a pick-up in private consumption levels on the back of higher real disposable incomes (due to falling inflation), as well as both an easing in credit availability and influx of tourism will bolster UAE retail sector growth further in 2010 and beyond. Also we analyse the assumption that crude oil prices may move in tandem with the US Dollar in 2010 and the implications of this on the UAE economy.
Published On 11th-March-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
Dubai's Exports Increase By 19.5% in 2009
This issue examines the strong growth witnessed in Dubai?s exports in 2009 despite the challenging economic environment. It is clear that Dubai?s strategic location, its cost and market advantages as well as its status as an international business hub was the critical factors facilitating export growth last year. Also, we analyse the business community?s concerns that liquidity conditions remain tight and suggest that lending rates are expected to ease in the coming months on the back of lower interbank rates.
Published On 25th-February-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
Dubai Consumer Prices Falls to 4.1% in 2009
This issue examines the latest inflation trends for Dubai which suggests that consumer prices fell to 4.1% in 2009 leaving individuals with more disposable income in their pockets last year. Also, we examine the latest GDP figures for Dubai which suggests that the governments swift action on fiscal stimulus packages was a key driver behind the positive contribution of this sector in the third quarter of 2009.
Published On 15th-February-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
Dubai's Exports Immune from the Slowdown
This issue examines the significant increase in both the value and volume of Dubai Chamber's Certificate of Origin in the last quarter of 2009 which suggest that the impact of the global economic downturn has not been felt on Dubai's export sector. Also, we analyse the 2010 Economic Freedom Index which proposes that the ease of doing business in the UAE has improved reflecting positive market sentiment and an overall increase in risk appetite.
Published On 28th-January-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
Government of Dubai Approves Budget for 2010
This issue analyses Dubai government's budget for 2010 and what it means for the business community as a whole. Also, we examine the latest UAE inflation data which suggests that consumer prices rose in the month of November 2009 and that there are clear signs that inflation is on its way up in the months ahead.
Published On 14th-January-2010 Author: Economic Research Department
SPECIAL EDITION UAE's Outlook 2010: Promising Prospects Ahead
This issue is a special 8 page edition which analyses in detail the factors that will drive the UAE economy going forward in 2010. An in-depth examination of the key macroeconomic sectors is provided, commentary on various government forms of intervention, as well as the latest market sentiment levels reflecting the level of risk appetite in the country.
Published On 24th-December-2009 Author: Economic Research Department
UAE's Government's Policy Actions Aiding Recovery
This issue analyses the swift and timely response to the economic slowdown by the UAE government in which the implementation of fiscal and monetary policies, as well as financial sector interventions, places the country in a sound position going forward. Also, we examine the implications of the latest inflation data for Dubai which suggests that consumer prices in fact rose for the first time on an annualised basis in October.
Published On 10th-December-2009 Author: Economic Research Department
Signs of Revival for Dubai's Realty Market
This issue examines some signs of revival in Dubai's realty market and with its combination of well planned mature developments, supported by good facilities and community infrastructure, the industry is expected to bounce back further in the months ahead. Also, we analyse the latest consumer confidence figures for the UAE, which portray an overall marked improvement in sentiment levels and thus indicate that the country is firmly on the road to recovery.
Published On 22nd-November-2009 Author: Economic Research Department
AE Federal Budget 2010 Well Positioned to Stimulate Growth
This issue examines the well balanced, forward-looking UAE federal budget for 2010 which is set to rise by 3.4% in a bid to accelerate the economy?s recovery from the global economic slowdown. Also, the latest UAE inflation data is analysed which suggests that cheap rental and property prices coupled with an easing in lending conditions and an overall marked improvement in individuals? appetite to invest has meant that property rents and house prices actually rose for a second consecutive month and signifies that property rents and prices actually bottomed out in early summer.
Published On 5th-November-2009 Author: Economic Research Department
Dubai Passenger Flows Defy Downturn
This issue analyses the remarkable fourth consecutive rise in passenger traffic flows into Dubai International Airport and assesses the outlook for the UAE airline industry as a whole looking ahead. Also, following a difficult period of caution peaking in the fourth quarter of 2008, we examine the rapid steps the UAE banking sector is taking in order to return to solid growth.
Published On 29-October-2009 Author: Economic Research Department
AE Growth Prospects Gain Further Strength
This issue examines the newly released IMF growth forecasts which suggests that the UAE is expected to grow at a faster rate than had been previously anticipated. Also the UAE healthcare sector is examined which suggests that expenditure on healthcare is set to rise significantly this year on the back of government spending in the sector which will help assist in boosting business competitiveness and guarantee an appropriate environment that will strengthen the UAE economy going forward.
Published On 8-October-2009 Author: Economic Research Department
Ease of Doing Business Improves in the UAE
his issue examines the rise in the UAEs ease of doing business despite the economic slowdown which clearly reflects the robustness of the countrys appetite to strive for greater business competitiveness. Whats more, a revision to the existing business and investment laws (to come into effect shortly) is analysed which will pave the way for further foreign investments into strategic economic sectors that will add value and strengthen the economy going forward
Published On 17-September-2009 Author: Economic Research Department
Dubai Metro to Further Strengthen Economy
This issue examines the economic benefits of the new Dubai Metro system which will not only ease congestion and reduce travelling times but also boost overall business competitiveness in the emirate. Furthermore, the latest UAE inflation figures for the month of July are analysed which suggests the first rise in housing costs since 2008.
Published On 3-September-2009 Author: Economic Research Department
Blessings of Falling Dubai Realty Prices
This issue examines the benefits of falling realty prices in Dubai which has once again made the emirate an affordable place to live and for firms to set up and has overall improved the emirates business competitiveness environment. Also, the latest trends in consumer confidence in the UAE are examined which suggests that the country is firmly on the road to recovery.
Published On 20-August-2009 Author: Economic Research Department
UAE Banking Sector Recovery in Progress
This issue examines the UAE banking sectors finances to date and suggests that there are clear signs emerging that the sector is on the road to recovery with both interbank lending and loan-to-deposit ratios improving in recent months. Also the latest countrywide inflation figures are studied which suggests that a strong drop in housing rents is boding well for living and doing business in the UAE.
Published On 6-August-2009 Author: Economic Research Department
UAEs Retail Sector Unscathed by the Downturn
This issue focuses on the UAEs retail sector in the midst of the current economic downturn and examines whether a pick-up in private consumption levels is likely in the months ahead. Also, we examine the remarkable growth rate of Dubai Chambers Certificate of Origin, both in terms of the value and volumes, in the second quarter of this year.
Published On 23-July-2009 Author: Economic Research Department
UAEs Energy Challenges and Future Outlook
This issue assesses the UAEs energy challenges and examines what the outlook is for oil prices and production levels looking ahead. Also, we inspect the latest monthly inflation numbers for Dubai and where the trend is likely to go from here onwards.
Published On 9-July-2009 Author: Economic Research Department
Dubais expansionary fiscal policy
This issue examines how Dubais expansionary fiscal policy has led onto increased consumer confidence which has helped spur investment activity and in-turn boost economic growth.
Published On 25-June-2009 Author: Economic Research Department
UAEs inflation shows downward trend
This issue examines UAEs recent decline in consumer prices and assesses whether the UAE should now be concerned with the prospect of deflation going forward.
Published On 11-June-2009 Author: Economic Research Department
Foreign Direct Investment in Dubai
This issue assesses Dubais foreign direct investment prospects on the back of the recent global economic slowdown and proposes a number of possible policy recommendations at the macro and micro level.
Published On 28-May-2009 Author: Economic Research Department
UAEs Financial Services Sector
This issue examines the UAE banking sector and whether there are any signs as yet of stabilisation in the system. Also we analyse the challenging times ahead for Dubais Retail Market.
Published On 14-May-2009 Author: Economic Research Department
Dubais Real Estate Prospects
This issue focuses on Dubais real estate prospects looking ahead and examines whether or not we have reached a floor in the property market. Also given the economic slowdown, we assess the impact on the tourism sector in Dubai and the UAE as a whole in the short and medium term.
Published On 23-Apr-2009 Author: Economic Research Department
UAE Economic Outlook 2009
This issue examines the challenging economic outlook ahead for the UAE economy and highlights 3 critical reasons to remain vigilant in terms of growth prospects looking ahead.
Published On 09-Apr-2009 Author: Economic Research Department