Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid AI Maktoum, Dubai has transformed from a sleepy coastal village in the world-class city, known for his ambition, drive and economic promise. He is the founder, owner and visionary behind companies such as Emirates Airlines, the UAE-based airline, serving more than 100 destinations, Nakheel, the developer who built the trilogy of artificial islands, and DP World, a leader in international marine terminal operations. Although surrounded by the political instability in the Middle East, Sheikh Mohammed pursued capitalism and embraced Western culture, while maintaining security for millions of annual visitors. By 2010, Dubai was the tallest building in the world, the most expensive hotel, and the largest shopping mall. But the rapid growth has not come without difficulties. While hundreds of thousands emigrated to help build a metropolis, working conditions suffered and some local Emirates feel that they have lost aspects of their cultural identity. Growth has been rapid, infrastructure was weak, and the housing bubble has grown, as the financial crisis loomed. For economic, social and cultural well-being of the people of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed had to balance his role as a business leader and a political leader. "Hide
by Anthony J. Mayo, Nitin Nohria, Umaimah Mendhro, Jonathan Cromwell Source: HBS Premier Case Collection 31 pages. Publication Date: 01 February 2010. Prod. #: 410063-PDF-ENG
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