Most businesses at some time come under attack from competitors or changing trading conditions but few in the UK, with the notable exception of high street banks in the 1970s, face armed attack as a serious threat.
But that’s what the Government of the UAE are now facing as hundreds of cheap drones and ballistic missiles rain down on their economic miracle that has transformed the Arabian Gulf state into a Mecca of international tourism.
So, how are they faring against the wrath of a wounded Iran, seemingly intent on lashing out at all and anyone it perceives as unfriendly, in retribution for attacks, by Israel and the Unites States, on its leadership, military assets and infrastructure? The answer from the perspective of a stranded British national holed up in a Dubai hotel is – pretty damn well… exemplary even.
So much so that the UAE’s response to an extraordinary attack on its sovereignty, and the security of its citizens, ex-pats and guests, should be a lesson for the UK (and other European nations), especially with the growing threat from a criminal Russian dictatorship prepared to use similarly murderous military force against its neighbours.
I am that stranded British tourist currently playing the part of hostage to circumstance, courtesy of an out-of-control Iranian regime that happily executes and imprisons its own people and has now turned its guns (and missiles) on its neighbours and their guests.
But what wonderful hospitality am I and thousands of others receiving as the UAE is battered daily by dozens of killer Iranian missiles and suicide drones, aimed indiscriminately at civilian, economic and military targets. Not only is life here still comfortable and as close to normal as it possibly can be with warheads gate-crashing breakfast at Mach 5 (3,300 mph), but our generous hosts are picking up the tab.
Yes, that’s right, marooned tourists are currently living on the UAE shilling until which time they can safely return home. And that’s not all; our generous hosts have already shelled out for the air defence systems that are keeping millions safe, not to mention running a state so free from crime that personal safety is never an issue.
It’s clear that Emiratis as a people are proud of the culturally embracing, tolerant society they have build in the last 50 years. But what’s also clear is they have the business savvy to fight tooth and nail to protect and defend their economic miracle.
Do I want to go home? Yes, of course I do. But I will be back, no question. My biggest concern just now however is when that might be, and what is being done by my own government to get me back to the UK. So far, the FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) have counted me as being abroad without a ride home. And they are pleased about this. They must be, they’ve emailed me three times to tell me they know where I am. Great stuff chaps, you’ve repeated back to me what I told you 48-hours ago!
All I have to add is – God help us and all the tourists visiting the UK if, as many uniformed types are predicting, the Russians turn their attentions to our little island!
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