Those who follow the UAE's movements closely — particularly after the treacherous attacks that Iran recently launched against Gulf states, and against the UAE specifically, in the course of its conflict with the United States — can barely believe the powerful resurgence and remarkable recovery the country is experiencing, at the level of decisions, domestic construction and development projects, as well as its rapid moves to establish economic ties and forge giant development projects with its Arab neighbours, as we are all following with the steps being taken towards sisterly Syria and others.
Some had wagered on the opposite outcome — individuals, media institutions, and even states. We saw, for example, the stance of the British press, which spared no effort in promoting the idea that the UAE's economy would collapse as a result of the attacks and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz — which would inevitably lead, in their view, to a slowdown, if not a complete freeze, in economic growth, tourism, and all manner of projects. But the UAE, which excels at nothing so much as moving forward and overcoming every obstacle, has dashed the expectations and bets of all those parties. It has lived up to the confidence placed in it by its leadership, its people, and all who love it — as it always has — and as His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State, may God preserve him, affirmed: the UAE would emerge stronger when the conflict ended. His Highness has delivered on that promise.
And here is the UAE shining at the G7 summit recently held in Paris, having been invited to join the club of major powers while proudly boasting an output that stands equal to that of the world's leading industrialised nations. Did not the leader, may God preserve him, tell you: "The UAE will emerge stronger"?
What the UAE is witnessing today is the continuation of its major construction and development projects, its approach of speed, effectiveness, and efficiency in economic and strategic decisions, and the expansion of its network of Arab and regional partnerships — in addition to strengthening its presence in future sectors such as artificial intelligence, energy, and technology.
Perhaps the paradox lies in the fact that many forecasts were premised on the assumption that geopolitical shocks would drive investors to hesitate and the economy to contract, whereas the UAE has demonstrated a remarkable capacity to absorb change and transform challenges into opportunities — drawing on its advanced infrastructure, financial reserves, diversified economy, and its standing as a global financial and commercial hub.
As for its presence at major international forums, it reflects a weight that far exceeds the country's geographical and demographic size — and that is precisely what the 2026 G7 summit, hosted by France in the city of Évian, said to the entire world.