71% residents say UAE on track to become an innovation-led economy

In the lead up to the 44th year of the unity of their country, 71 per cent of UAE residents strongly agree that their nation is well on track to achieving its vision of becoming an innovation-led economy with 28 per cent agree to a large extent and 43 per cent agree to a very large extent.

The findings from a new YouGov study also revealed that UAE residents believe the country is a major player on the regional and world stage, with 69 per cent believing it plays an important role in the global economy and in maintaining regional stability in the Arab world.

According to respondents, people most closely associate the UAE with tourism (34 per cent), followed by business opportunities and high cost of living (both 33 per cent). Close association with the high cost of living was largely felt amongst Expats (35 per cent vs. 15 per cent of Emiratis).

This appears to be a winning combination amongst fresh foreign residents with 79 per cent of respondents who have lived in the country for less than two years claiming it is a happy, welcoming and peaceful society.

Respondents feel the UAE is achieving impressive growth in gender equality and the political empowerment of women (both 67 per cent), which was voiced particularly amongst Emiratis (78 per cent vs. 66 per cent of Expat respondents). YouGov’s recent 24-country study on gender equality supports this notion

Human development is also believed to be on a strong path of progress in the country with 69 per cent of respondents agreeing it is developing well. Emiratis agreed with this statement the most (80 per cent v. 78 per cent of Expats). 66 per cent of respondents also agreed the development of humanitarian assistance is positively supporting the UAE’s foreign policy.

When considering the up-coming 44th celebration of UAE National Day, respondents claim they mostly associate the day with Unity (50 per cent), particularly Expats (51 per cent vs. 40 per cent of Emiratis). This was followed by Patriotism (38 per cent), Independence (35 per cent) and Pride (30 per cent).

Thinking of the UAE’s new day of remembrance, Martyrs Day, held today just two days behind UAE National Day on 2 December,  8 in 10 respondents (79 per cent) believe the observation of Martyrs Day will bring a meaningful change to UAE National Day celebrations. This was particularly prevalent among 66 per cent of Emiratis who think the impact will definitely be meaningful (compared to 46 per cent of Expats).

Overall respondents are very aware of the UAE National Day celebrations (96 per cent), 45 per cent of which are going to embrace the day with a special activity, particularly Emiratis (61 per cent v. 32 per cent of Expats). The most popular activities respondents will be celebrating with this year are public celebrations, flag events and fireworks (43 per cent), followed by rallies and parades (17 per cent) and raising the UAE flag (16 per cent).

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