Dubai: mugged by reality

Dubai may contain the world's tallest building, but down on the ground it has the troubles – and the debt – to match

Dubai may contain the world's tallest building, but down on the ground it has the troubles and the debt to match. It's been "telling the world" since the financial crisis struck that it would extricate itself from an $80bn debt hole, said the FT's Simeon Kerr. The figure is more than 100% of Dubai's GDP.

But as the markets "jubilantly toasted" a $10bn loan from the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates this week, it was clear that Dubai has "finally come to terms" with economic realities.

Subscribe to MoneyWeek

Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE

Get 6 issues free
https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/flexiimages/mw70aro6gl1676370748.jpg

Sign up to Money Morning

Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter

Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter

Sign up
MoneyWeek

MoneyWeek is written by a team of experienced and award-winning journalists, plus expert columnists. As well as daily digital news and features, MoneyWeek also publishes a weekly magazine, covering investing and personal finance. From share tips, pensions, gold to practical investment tips - we provide a round-up to help you make money and keep it.