It's been my experience that non fulfillment of obligations is a world wide phenomena not just the middle east. Also the abuses you mention within Dubai are not exclusive to local companies, many respectable international organizations are also guilty of such things while operating here.
It is perhaps more prevalent in this part of the world due to the lack of rules, unions and or government protection.
I think the negative response to the US ports was due to a fear of all things connected with Islamic countries and that all embracing excuse for all... SECURITY.
The airport deal in NZ was simply a fear of all thing connected with Emirates and the competition that they brought to Air NZ.