Abu Dhabi: A top executive of the National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD) said the lower oil prices will boost trade and consumer spending which in the medium term will stimulate economic growth, particularly among emerging markets that import oil. Taking part in a panel discussion in Kuala Lumpur on Monday on the Future of Energy, West East Corridor, Alex Thursby, the group chief executive officer of NBAD said the UAE has worked hard to successfully diversify its economy by developing its non-oil sectors which now accounts for 65 per cent of GDP. “Lower oil prices may raise short-term speculation over the ability of some governments to maintain their spending programmes, but the UAE economy is very resilient and the medium term outlook remains strong,” Thursby said.