Development of the UAE in a Local Perspective, Exemplified by Selected Aspects of the Ras Al Khaimah Energy Efficiency and Renewables Strategy 2040 (EE&R Strategy)

Abstract

As a federation, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has depended on the oil sector for its development since its inception, which has led to significant disparities in the development of the various emirates. Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with the largest oil reserves, have reaped the greatest financial benefits, while smaller emirates such as Ras Al Khaimah and Fujaira have had to rely on federal support policies to ensure even development. In 2018, the Ras Al Khaimah Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Strategy 2040 (EE&R Strategy) was introduced, aiming at the emirate’s energy transformation. This strategy is part of national and local plans such as the UAE National Agenda Vision 2021 and Ras Al Khaimah Vision 2030. This article analyses the impact of this strategy on Ras Al Khaimah’s development, its efficiency at local, national and international levels, and the emirate’s contribution to climate change mitigation targets, under the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.