During the 1970s and 1980s, what was a primary focus of the UAE government's spending?

During the 1970s and 1980s, the UAE government placed a significant emphasis on infrastructure growth as a primary focus of its spending. This period marked a transformative phase in the country’s development, as the government aimed to establish a strong physical and economic foundation to support its rapidly evolving economy and improve the overall quality of life for its citizens.

The investments in infrastructure included the construction of roads, bridges, airports, and ports, which were essential for facilitating trade and enhancing connectivity both within the UAE and with the global market. Additionally, such infrastructure projects supported the burgeoning oil industry and helped diversify the economy by promoting sectors like tourism and commerce. The strategic focus on infrastructure during these decades laid the groundwork for the UAE's development into a modern state with efficient transport links and services, contributing to its economic growth and prosperity.

This emphasis on infrastructure ultimately allowed for the expansion and enhancement of other sectors like healthcare, education, and cultural initiatives, which also received attention, but were more significantly boosted by the robust infrastructure that had been developed.