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Nestled along the Persian Gulf, Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, has quietly built up its economic prowess since in 1960s. But it's long chosen a low-key approach, remaining in the shadows of its glamorous neighbor, Dubai. Now, it's coming out of its shell with a “Bang!” hosting its first ever Formula One race to round out the 2009 Grand Prix calendar.
“Abu Dhabi is launching itself on the world stage on this Yas Marina Circuit. A hundred and fifty thousand people are expected here over the Grand Prix weekend, everyone from heads of state to first-time Formula One fans.”
It's all part of Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, a systematic plan to build the city and its economy over the next two decades.
“It is a part of a by being a communication tool, by actually drawing attention. Formula One is one of the three largest sports in the world. You have the, you know the Formula One, you have the Olympics, you have the World Cup in Football. On a yearly basis, Formula One is by far the biggest. So you've got 600-million viewers worldwide. So if you want to draw focus to your city or your country, then what better way to do with it than Formula One?”
Until now, the evolution of Abu Dhabi has revolved around its vast oil reserves. The UAE is one of the world's top oil producers. And more than 90% of the country's crude reserves are based in Abu Dhabi. Revenues from