A goal of six to seven per cent growth in gross domestic product (GDP) has been unveiled for Abu Dhabi, which is expected to boost jobs in the emirate.

This is according to official news agency WAM, which reveals the annual Public Finance and Economic Planning report outlines a series of plans to achieve this end, including increasing the jurisdiction's workforce.

Published by the Department of Economic Development in Abu Dhabi, the proposals suggest focusing on a number of key industries, which are anticipated to required highly-skilled employees over the coming years.

"The significant growth in focus sectors is expected to generate 40,000 new jobs during the period 2008-12, with more new opportunities after 2012," the plans state.

Industries on which the government wants to concentrate to boost diversification into non-oil markets include construction, tourism, financial services, aviation, transport and logistics, IT and manufacturing.

A member of the seven United Arab Emirates (UAE), Abu Dhabi is the largest and most populated, with more than 1.6 million residents.

Posted by Sarah Dixon