Abu Dhabi, Misunderstood by Many, Emerging As Philanthropic Capital of the Middle East

By Trevor Neilson. Many people's understanding of the Middle East is rooted in problems. For the casual observer, the problems in Iraq and the daily tragedy unfolding in Syria represent the trajectory of the entire region.
But on the contrary, despite the challenges of the region, something is quietly unfolding in Abu Dhabi that has the potential to fundamentally change the course of many of the world's biggest problems, and make a lasting impact in the world. Led by the President and Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Abu Dhabi has become the philanthropic capital of the Middle East, and one of the most important philanthropic centers of the world. Despite all of this, Abu Dhabi and the UAE have recently undergone a wave of criticism about how they are handling a small group of dissidents intent on causing social unrest in one of the most peaceful and prosperous places in the region and a friend and ally of the US and the UK. Read more...