Book review: Linda Low's latest points out changes needed for future Abu Dhabi economy

Abu Dhabi’s Vision 2030
Linda Low
World Scientific

Dr Linda Low, whose previous work includes The Gulf Cooperation Council, returns with Abu Dhabi's Vision 2030, her exposition of the effectiveness of the government's business plan.

Low applies a rigorous and academic approach to Abu Dhabi's journey from an oil-based to a knowledge-based economy.

Drawing on a wide range of sources (this newspaper included), her book examines all aspects of "Abu Dhabi Inc" and, given the author's role at the emirate's department of economic development, she occupies something approaching a ringside seat in such matters.

Facts cluster in dense forests on Low's pages and her writing style can be occasionally hard to unpick, but her conclusions ring out loud and clear: "Despite the unforeseen global financial crisis and Arab Spring," she writes, "Vision 2030 is en route with some sobering adjustments." It is the author's firm belief that a combination of hydrocarbon wealth and strong leadership will push Abu Dhabi towards "a diversified sustainable economy and society of first-world standards" within two decades.

* Nick March