In an effort to solidify its status as the tourism and commercial hub of the Gulf, Dubai suspended a 30% tax on alcohol sales to ring in the New Year. Executives in the business who were notified of the decision have referred to the project, which went into force last Sunday and will last for a year, as a trial phase.
In order to recruit more foreign workers, Dubai, the region's business and tourist hub where foreigners outnumber locals nine to one, has recently loosened laws. Saudi Arabia, which has been luring numerous expats with generous salaries, is creating new sectors and expanding its entertainment market. Previously only open to pilgrims, the monarchy is now advertising its historical landmarks and debating the possibility of making alcohol sales legal. In Qatar, they have showcased themselves during the Fifa World Cup.