Jono Simrin: Why Is Dubai So RICH? [OPINION]

PHILIPPE RENAULT / HEMIS / CORBIS

Dubai is so rich, it has it's own fleet of man made islands, and the police force drives Ferraris. So how did Dubai, and the United Arab Emirates get so wealthy?

Dubai's ambitions have never been larger. Currently, there are plans to construct a rainforest in the desert, the largest shopping mall in the world, and the tallest twin towers ever built. After taking a bit of a downturn following the 2008 global financial crisis, the construction industry appears to be making a strong comeback in Dubai. Foreign investment is pouring back in and consumers are spending more money.

At the same time, there's growing concern over the environmental impact that comes with such major construction projects. The emirate already has a considerable carbon footprint. According to BBC News, per day, the average Dubai resident uses twice as much water as the global average and produces 5 lb (2.5 kg) of waste.

Dubai officials do have plans in place to adopt more sustainable energy production. By 2030, they hope to produce 15 percent of Dubai's energy from renewable sources and cut down consumer consumption by 30 percent. The emirate is rapidly developing solar energy projects. All new construction projects, both public and private, must adhere to certain environmental regulations adopted last year.

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