Lions and tigers and ...

While the property sector in the UAE is undergoing a historic slowdown, Dubai World - the parent company of Nakheel - is diversifying into game parks. People love dangerous animals even during a downturn, it seems. This time last year the company went on a tour of African states to find opportunities. It seems now the company has invested in a game park in the Bubye Reserve Zimbabwe as well as others in South Africa.

Here's what Sultan bin Sulayem, chairman of Dubai World had to say about Africa:

"Africa is a very interesting place," he said. "It is a place where you can see growth. In Africa, you will see double-digit growth. Africa is virgin, Africa has so much charm, nature. This is something that we know we can add value to."

UAE companies have been increasing their investments in Africa, becoming what

. At the same time, at least one UAE company has been running into resistance there.

Ruwaad

, a property developer owned by the

Dubai 9 Group

, has a project in South Africa that

who don't want to leave their land to make way for a giant theme park.