Dubai’s growth over the last few decades has been astonishing. It is difficult to imagine the transformation that has taken place, from an undeveloped, though flourishing backwater, to today's young, modern metropolis of high-rise buildings and luxurious beach resorts.

While the oil industry has been crucial to development since the late 1960s, the largely Dubai-oriented non-oil sector of trade and commerce currently contributes some 88% of the city’s gross GDP and is continuing to expand in importance at a rapid pace. Manufacturing and tourism are both growing at a steady rate, helping to create a well-balanced and diverse economy.

Trade and commerce remain the lifeblood of Dubai, as it has for generations, earning the emirate the reputation within the region as the 'city of merchants'. This longstanding trading tradition continues to be an important consideration for foreign companies and individuals looking at opportunities in the region today. It is reflected not just in a regulatory environment that is open and liberal, but also in the local business communities’ familiarity with international commercial practices, and the city's cosmopolitan lifestyle.

Dubai's energy and affinity for fast-tracking the further diversification of its economy is breathtaking. It is home to the region's largest free zone and port. It has developed numerous sector-specific initiatives for services and industry in areas as diverse as healthcare and education. It has attracted over 12,000 new companies - and some of the world's major IT and media organisations - to the high-tech campuses of Dubai Internet and Dubai Media Cities. One of its most recent innovations is Knowledge Village, which will provide the infrastructure for developing, sharing and applying knowledge throughout the region. It is in Knowledge Village that Budge Recruitment is based. Furthermore, Dubai will soon enhance its position as the regional hub for banking and finance through the establishment of the Dubai International Financial Centre. :: living >