Another important consideration is Dubai's rapidly developing role as a supplier to such emerging markets as India, the CIS, Central Asia and South Africa. There is potential for almost any type of goods and services. In the prosperous, but sparsely populated Gulf states, there is demand for foodstuff, high technology equipment and luxury products. This means there are also opportunities for manufacturers and exporters of less sophisticated equipment and mass consumer products. There are no foreign exchange controls, quotas or trade barriers.
Import duties are extremely low, and many products are exempt.
The emirate's transport infrastructure is unrivalled in the region in terms of size, facilities and efficiency. Its ports are served by more than 100 shipping lines and the airport by nearly 100 airlines. Also, overseas businessmen will find that their counterparts combine local and regional expertise with a full understanding of international business practices. English ranks on a par with Arabic as the main business language of business and there are plenty of foreign banks, lawyers and other advisors - as well as the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, The Economic Department, Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority to help those wishing to enter the market. Inevitably, the various attractions outlined above have caught the attention of manufacturers and exporters from around the world.