The UAE and the making of a progressive nation 
As UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed bin Sultan Al-Nahyan is about to start a historic visit to Washington — the first official visit of a UAE president to the White House — it is imperative to highlight some of the UAE’s impressive accomplishments during the past decade.
In a region often associated with conflict and extremism, the UAE stands out as a beacon of hope, stability, and modernity. Not only is the UAE an economic powerhouse — its gross domestic product in 2023 reached AED1.68 trillion ($460 billion), reflecting a 3.6 percent increase from the previous year — but it also leads the region in progressiveness. Non-oil GDP reached AED1.25 trillion, a 6.2 percent growth from 2022, making the UAE the fifth-largest economy globally in terms of real GDP growth. Additionally, it ranks among the top 10 economies globally across various competitiveness indicators tied to GDP.
However, the country’s significance extends beyond economics. The UAE plays a crucial role in fighting extremism and promoting progressive values. This stems from the forward-thinking vision of its leadership, since the country’s founding in 1971, balancing Arab and Islamic traditions with the demands of a globalized, diverse world.
For decades, Islamic extremism has posed a significant threat to stability across the Middle East. Extremist groups, driven by extremist ideologies, reject modernity and oppose secular governance. Recognizing this danger, the UAE has adopted both soft and hard approaches to prevent radicalization. A key strategy has been the development of a comprehensive religious discourse and curriculum. This includes Islamic education classes in schools and standardized curricula in Qur’an Memorization Centers, overseen by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments to ensure that the extremists do not influence the Islamic education or discourse. The UAE government has also sought to modernize the interpretation of Islamic law, ensuring it aligns with contemporary values like tolerance, coexistence, and progress.
On the legal front, the UAE has enacted strict anti-terrorism laws to combat radical ideologies, allowing for the prosecution of individuals and groups promoting extremism. The country has also introduced legislation to criminalize activities tied to terrorism, such as financing or supporting extremist organizations, money laundering, and promoting hatred or discrimination. In addition to these legal measures, the UAE has launched rehabilitation programs aimed at reintegrating individuals influenced by extremist ideologies. These programs provide psychological support, vocational training, and educational opportunities to help former radicals contribute positively to society.
One notable initiative is the Hedayah Center, established in 2012 in partnership with the Global Counter-Terrorism Forum. This international center focuses on training, research, and dialogue in combating violent extremism. The UAE is also a founding member of the Global Counter-Terrorism Forum, further cementing its commitment to this cause. In 2015, the UAE and the US established the Sawab Center to combat online extremism, particularly on social media platforms where groups such as Daesh spread propaganda. The center works to counter these narratives by promoting accurate information and correcting misunderstandings of Islam.
In February 2019, the UAE hosted the Human Fraternity Meeting to foster dialogue between different faiths and cultures, promoting coexistence while challenging extremism. A key outcome was the Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together, signed by Pope Francis and Dr. Ahmed El-Tayeb, grand imam of Al-Azhar. Their joint visit to the UAE, the first papal visit to the Arabian Peninsula, was a historic testament to the country’s commitment to interfaith dialogue.
The UAE’s dedication to religious tolerance is further evidenced by its embrace of over 200 nationalities and the construction of places of worship for various faiths, including churches, temples, and synagogues. The Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi, which houses a mosque, church, and synagogue, stands as a symbol of peaceful coexistence and interfaith dialogue, sending a powerful message against the exploitation of religious differences by extremist groups.
On the international front, the UAE has been a key player in regional and global coalitions against terrorism. As a member of the Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh, the UAE has forged partnerships with moderate Islamic states and organizations to promote a more tolerant interpretation of Islam. The Forum for Promoting Peace in Muslim Societies is one such institution that fosters dialogue among scholars and policymakers, working to counter extremist ideologies.
While combating extremism, the UAE has simultaneously embraced progressive policies to modernize its society. These efforts have helped position the country as a global leader in technology, tourism, and business. A cornerstone of this vision is economic diversification.
Recognizing the risks of relying on oil, the UAE has invested heavily in sectors such as tourism, real estate, and renewable energy. It has also eased restrictions on foreign ownership of businesses and liberalized trade policies. The creation of free economic zones, such as Dubai Internet City and Masdar City, has attracted global talent and investment, fueling innovation and entrepreneurship.
In line with its progressive economic agenda, the UAE has made significant strides in promoting gender equality, religious tolerance, and cultural inclusivity. In 2016, the government appointed a minister of tolerance to champion these values, both at home and abroad. To attract international talent and foster a more open society, the UAE has implemented legal reforms to align with global standards on personal freedoms.
The UAE has also prioritized education and innovation as key drivers of its future success. The leadership recognizes that a knowledge-based economy requires a highly educated and skilled workforce. As a result, the country has invested heavily in education, technology, and research. The UAE’s launch of the Hope Probe to Mars in 2021, making it the first Arab nation to reach such a milestone, is a testament to its commitment to scientific progress and innovation.
In the 2024 World Competitiveness Report by the International Institute for Management Development, the UAE climbed to seventh place globally, ahead of nations such as Norway, Japan, and Canada. It ranks among the top 10 globally in over 90 key indicators, excelling in areas such as economic performance and government efficiency. Beyond its economic achievements, the UAE attracted over 23 million international visitors last year, reinforcing its status as a global hub.
By balancing Islamic traditions with a progressive vision for the future, the UAE has established itself as a model for other nations in the region. Its approach has not only strengthened its internal security, but has also elevated its global standing as a forward-thinking, tolerant society.
• Sulaiman Al-Hattlan, an Emirati writer and media figure, is the CEO of Hattlan Media, based in Abu Dhabi.
