This fall I spent a few weeks researching and exploring Dubai and Abu Dhabi. There was no escape here as Shanghai experienced its longest and hottest summer. It was very hot and the temperature was hovering around 40 degrees Celsius.

Heat symbolizes not only the air but also the vitality of the soil. Strangely, there are more scaffolding and construction sites here than in China. Investment opportunities, developments in high technology and future ideals attract people from all over the world to the airports here 24/7. Who can catch Dubai’s “hotness” in global competition?

Visitors to Dubai may wonder how Dubai transformed from the backwaters of the desert into one of the most magnificent cities in the world in just a few decades. What force caused this change and can it continue? During my weeks of research in Dubai, I tried to understand its mysteries.

Investment personnel in the free zones welcomed me warmly. His presentations on the development of the Gulf countries, regional benefits and infrastructure were impressive. They highlighted the benefits with presentations in English and Chinese. Competitive free trade zones clearly claim “Number 1” status. People refer to Dubai’s 22 free trade zones as “one big family”. While there are such regional advantages, warm service and appropriate policies, the important thing is to seize the opportunities.

Dubai does not charge personal income tax. There was no corporate tax before 2023. They eventually imposed a 9 percent tax on businesses earning more than $100,000 a year, but rates on real estate, investments and other transactions remain among the lowest in the world.

Dubai welcomes any registration of firms or individuals, allowing full foreign ownership in all industries. Considering that 88 percent of Dubai’s population consists of foreigners, there are no criteria for the use of local labor. In this context, Dubai values ​​openness in every aspect.

Innovation and elegance coexist in Dubai, such as the iconic 828-meter Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and Burj AI Arab. Luxury is important, but innovation is embedded in everyday life. The design of the Museum of the Future, devoid of support columns, reflects an eye looking into the future. The name “Museum of the Future” represents the combination of two opposing concepts: future and museum. Indeed, any future invention could end up in museums in the distant future, and Dubai certainly wants to be at the forefront of every new wave of technology that marks the city’s rapid development.

Indeed, Dubai aims to be at the forefront of technological developments. In 2017, Dubai appointed a minister born in 1990 to oversee artificial intelligence and the digital economy. Dubai universities talk the most about high technology and artificial intelligence, with artificial intelligence being used in transportation, healthcare, education, finance and energy. To integrate innovative technologies in the UAE and the Gulf region, the UAE’s sovereign funds are actively seeking leading AI businesses.

Dubai is implementing blockchain technology in its departments, and some universities use only solar energy. This oil-rich country has invested US$16.8 billion in EV infrastructure since 2020. Electric vehicles are still rare in the country, but citizens are hopeful about innovations in this sector and many Chinese EV companies are optimistic about the market.

A vibrant startup environment coexists with established companies. A huge startup area was bustling with activity at GITEX, the Middle East’s largest tech fair. Local people and international startups examined the products displayed on a table less than 2 square meters in a 9 square meter stand. It was the first time I saw such an active startup exchange site that reflected the innovative spirit of the country.

Diversity is everywhere in Dubai. In addition to traditionally dressed Arab citizens, there are also stylish young women in the streets and shopping malls. Mosques, masjids, beaches and racetracks coexist in harmony. While the UAE shifted the weekend from Friday and Saturday to Saturday and Sunday in 2022 to comply with international standards, it also devoted Friday afternoon to prayer. This arrangement demonstrates Dubai’s inclusiveness by balancing religion and economic growth.

On weekends, traditional houses at the Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding offer a glimpse into the history of the area, with photos of pearl divers from decades ago. Why is this happening so quickly? There is a sign at the entrance of the center that reads “Open Doors, Open Minds”.

Yes! This is the underlying concept of Dubai and the UAE, encompassing the essence of the growth ideology.

China and the UAE have had diplomatic relations for 40 years, while Shanghai and Dubai have maintained relations for almost 24 years. Both regions are remarkable examples of global economic and social progress. Let’s continue to embrace “Open Doors, Open Minds”, the best interpretation of the future, for both countries and cities.