In 1971, when the country was founded, few people would have believed that the UAE would look the way it now does. Oil had only just begun contributing to the UAE economy, which had previously been dependent on fishing and the pearl industry. At this time the UAE had hardly any economic strength, however it did have determination and strong leadership. Since then, the UAE has emerged as the most stable and secure country in the Middle Eastern region, attracting foreign investment and human talent.  

The UAE government has long recognized the importance of investing and having a firm strategy for improving its citizen's welfare through education, healthcare, security and training.  This, together with the UAE leadership's determination to make the UAE an active member of the international community, has enabled the UAE to enjoy prosperity, growth and friendly relationships with almost the entire world.