In recent times, I have repeatedly heard from our friends a new and striking concept known as "Dubai-it" — embodying the spirit of accomplishing exceptional work to the highest standards of quality, and in record time.
Reflecting on this eloquent description, which encapsulates Dubai's development philosophy, it becomes clear that the rapid transformations and extraordinary achievements witnessed on this desert land are truly worthy of admiration and contemplation.
Every time I pass through Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai, I am greeted by new and astonishing scenes: modern buildings rising tall, science and innovation technology complexes continuing to expand, and the entire city pulsing with growing vitality and an unceasing momentum of development, always looking toward the future.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, may God protect him, has a famous saying: "We say what we do, and we do what we say." Dubai has achieved an exceptional developmental leap over just a few decades, driven by strong leadership that has pursued a consistent and sustained vision.
From the establishment of the Jebel Ali Free Zone — the first free zone in the Middle East — in 1985, and the founding of Emirates airline, which cemented Dubai's position as a regional hub for trade and aviation, to the construction of global landmarks that propelled tourism and real estate development, and on to the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
And the smart city strategies, which are shaping an economy built on technology, sustainable energy, and the digital economy — Dubai's leadership has consistently demonstrated foresight, clarity of vision, and steadfastness of direction, while the government has coordinated efficiently and executed with full effectiveness, transforming development plans into tangible achievements on the ground.
In China, we have a concept very similar to "Dubai-it": "Chinese Speed" — meaning the mobilisation of energies to accomplish large-scale construction and development projects within a short period of time. In the 1980s, despite limited resources at the time, China held fast to the principle that "hard work is the path to national prosperity" and proceeded to implement its reform and opening-up policy, transforming the city of Shenzhen from a small fishing village into a modern global metropolis.
Today, the Tiangong space station continues its work in orbit, the aircraft carrier Fujian sails the seas, China's high-speed rail network leads the world in total length, and new-energy industries are driving global progress. Within just a few decades, these achievements have embodied the true meaning of "Chinese Speed."
Under the strong and effective leadership of the Communist Party of China, China continues to adopt an approach of mobilising resources and capabilities to accomplish major projects, ensuring that a single developmental vision is carried through to completion, and realising the "two miracles" of rapid economic growth and long-term social stability.
Recently, the UAE's first passenger railway line, the Etihad Rail passenger train, entered its trial commercial operation phase. Chinese companies participated in the implementation of this project, which forms a transport artery linking the various parts of the country.
This steel artery, built across the desert to connect every corner of the UAE, is one of the most prominent high-quality achievements symbolising China-UAE cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative. It also concretely embodies what the convergence of "Chinese Speed" and "Dubai-it" can accomplish on this vibrant land.
A new journey is being built upon the sands of this desert, and a new chapter is unfolding from the East. In this new chapter, coinciding with the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China, China will always remain committed to openness and cooperation for mutual benefit, and will work with Dubai to consolidate this shared development wisdom, deepen cooperation, and march together toward wider horizons for a prosperous future.
Consul General of the People's Republic of China in Dubai