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Crystallising the Dubai model of cluster-based development

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  • Yasser Al-Saleh

    (Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government)

Abstract

Since the mid-1980s, Dubai has embarked on creating clusters—in the form of special economic zones—that provide both business-friendly policies and world-class infrastructure. These clusters have helped Dubai by luring foreign investment and have been a fundamental basis for economic development and diversification. Drawing on empirical evidence, this article sheds light on the Dubai experience by articulating an explorative model for cluster-based economic development. Data collected through in-depth interviews, literature reviews and scrutiny of media and policy planning documents were analysed using grounded theory to identify the main features of a particular model for Dubai, which was ultimately labelled the ‘ABS model’—where ‘A’ stands for Attraction, ‘B’ for Branding and ‘S’ for State-led development. Just as the ‘Anti-lock Braking System’ prevents a car from skidding on a wet road, the Dubai ABS model will protect the Emirate in times of economic crisis by preventing its development legacy from stalling and ultimately enhancing its economic resilience. The proposed model together with the research findings and recommendations contribute to the ongoing debate surrounding cluster-based economic development.

Suggested Citation

  • Yasser Al-Saleh, 2018. "Crystallising the Dubai model of cluster-based development," Place Branding and Public Diplomacy, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 14(4), pages 305-317, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:pbapdi:v:14:y:2018:i:4:d:10.1057_s41254-017-0079-1
    DOI: 10.1057/s41254-017-0079-1
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