'Medieval feudalism' is how one senior western banker described Dubai's style of government, 'with a veneer of 21st century regulations.' "

Maybe the Emir's are not facists but as a loosely knit federation, the could be called a medieval feudalism with a veneer of 21st century regulations.

The secrecy in Dubai is legendary. There are also many reports of Al Quaeda having close ties to the UAE where banks are notorious for laundering money. Doing business with the UAE is like doing business with the Middle East mafia.

I'd feel better if Korea or Iran were managing the ports of the USA.

The UAE? They aren't likely to threaten our security but when it comes to white collar crime and a lack of human rights, the UAE are the masters. It really doesn't surprise me that the Bush administration sees the UAE as allies. Oil money is the driving force behind their existence.