Perfect for lessons on economic development, the Middle East, or globalization. This resourced geography lesson explores how and why the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has developed from an oil-dependent economy into a diversified High-Income Country (HIC). Aimed at KS3 or KS4 students, the lesson includes: A ‘Do Now’ retrieval activity covering oil formation and Middle Eastern geography A locational description task using maps and directional language Explanation of the UAE’s development and its transition away from oil dependency Activities exploring economic diversification strategies, including tourism, infrastructure, and investment A critical analysis task using Dubai advertisements to assess economic impact Discussion on the role of press freedom in development A homework extension task on challenges to development A plenary evaluation of diversification success using a score-and-explain framework The lesson promotes critical thinking and real-world application of development concepts. Key terms such as GDP, investment, strategic location, and diversification are embedded throughout. Answers and scaffolding are provided throughout.