The UAE is a soft power in its own right

Geographically, the UAE is small, and at 45, it is relatively young. Yet, its fair share of accomplishments and feats dwarf even so-called superpowers of the world. Today, the UAE isn't just a haven of stability and an economically prospering nation, it has also gained its rightful seat on important global forums. The country is a major stakeholder in the United Nations, International Monetary Fund, and regional alliances undertaking humanitarian efforts. Development of significant defence capabilities have helped it don a larger role in regional geopolitics.
On the international front, the UAE is lauded for its mature foreign policy and diplomacy. From being principally centred on maintaining peace and stability in the Gulf from the 1970s to the 90s, the country, in the last couple of decades, has broadened its diplomatic horizons and advanced its commercial and trade relations with a number of countries. It has taken these audacious steps with great responsibility.
The UAE is an important stakeholder in bringing stability in the region and has undertaken defence interventions in the Middle East and beyond with its allies. It has taken a seminal stance against extremism and used its assertiveness and influence to promote peace in the Middle East which has been enveloped in turmoil for over a decade. Its roles in Egypt, Libya, Yemen, Iraq, Syria are all efforts in the right direction to establish legitimate regimes.
On the cultural and economic fronts, this country is emerging as a powerful link between the West and the East. The UAE has successfully diversified its economic model and opened the sluice gates of opportunity for investors. It is fast emerging as the new capital of international finance, and looks to evolve into the capital for Islamic finance and tourism. Over the last two decades, Abu Dhabi and Dubai in particular, have become revolving doors for high-flying CEOs, banker, decision makers, influencers, tourists, and more, who wish to be part of its growth story.
The revival of art and architecture has helped reshaped the national identity. A number of museums like the Louvre and Guggenheim in Abu Dhabi are in the works, and new hotspots such as Dubai Opera are adding to the country's cross-cultural appeal. It was the vision of the founding fathers that laid the foundation for this great growth story. However, it is the dynamic and ambitious Rulers of the day who have to be credited for ensuring a socially compatible and economically progressing nation. The emirates has stayed away from the combustible mix of social problems by taking a tough stance on extremism of all kinds. It has even appointed happiness and tolerance ministers, while emerging as a beacon of stability and hope in a region torn apart by sectarianism and polarising agendas. Tolerance is recognised as the fifth pillar in the country, and the emirates allows freedom of all faiths. Different places of worship for different religious beliefs have added to its appeal and also strengthened the confidence of the global community in it.
Consequently, more than 200 nationalities call the UAE their second home and live harmoniously -a no mean feat for any nation. UAE is a successful model in governance and entrepreneurship, a society that is worth emulating in a world fraught with divisive agendas. It has stayed true to its core values and ideals for peaceful co-existence, while writing its own story to make the world a better place. -suneeti@khaleejtimes.com