Abu Dhabi: The UAE has created 16 catalysts that have helped to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) according to relevant national statistics for the end of 2017.

The catalysts include freedom of capital movement, smart government, and transparent policies, regulations, systems and laws.

The country’s net FDI inflow increased from $9.6 billion in 2012 to $10.4 billion in 2017, an annual growth rate of 1.6 per cent while its cumulative FDI inflows increased from $80.6 billion in 2012 to around $130 billion during the same period.

Along with its political, economic, social and security stability, the country’s geographic location, competitiveness, free-market policies, encouragement for the private sector, and attractive investment environment have enabled it to lead a list of countries that attract FDIs.