The United Arab Emirates: from soft power to global influence
What are the drivers behind the economic success of the United Arab Emirates? On the occasion of the publication of a new Strategic Note dedicated to its soft power, the Choiseul Middle East Club brought together experts and decision-makers to examine this case study. The discussion offered insights into the opportunities the UAE presents, particularly for French companies.
A unique model of development in the Gulf
In just two decades, the UAE have multiplied their gross domestic product by five. This achievement stems from an ambitious diversification policy, initiated as early as the 1970s, and from the strategic use of soft power as a lever for global influence.
The event was held in the presence of senior representatives from the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Paris, highlighting the shared interest in building a long-term strategic dialogue.
- H.E. Hend Al Otaiba, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to France and Monaco, a dedicated diplomat committed to promoting the Franco-Emirati strategic partnership.
- Ghizlaine Amrani, Chief Executive Officer of QuantCube Technology, an expert in economic intelligence and predictive data analytics, leading a French scale-up focused on innovation.
- Sébastien Daziano, Director of Strategy and Innovation at Veolia, a specialist in the transformation of industrial models, responsible for strategic foresight within a leading international group.
- Samy Ghorbal, Associate Fellow at Institut Choiseul and author of the Strategic Note presented. His analysis offers a long-term perspective on power dynamics in the Middle East.
The United Arab Emirates, a successful example of economic diversification
The discussions reaffirmed the role of the Choiseul Middle East Club as a high-value platform for dialogue. The UAE stand out as a distinctive case of successful economic diversification in the Arab world, with their soft power built on long-term strategic choices centred on innovation, attractiveness, and international positioning.
For French companies, tangible opportunities are emerging across a wide range of sectors – from data and infrastructure to environment and finance. Building on the already solid base of Franco-Emirati economic exchanges, this partnership is set to deepen further through joint projects and sustained cooperation.
