United Arab Emirates Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

United Arab Emirates, state of the Arabian Peninsula; 77,700 km², 9,6 million residents (2019).The country includes the seven emirates of Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujayra, Ras al-Khayma, Sharjah and Umm al-Qaywayn. The United Arab Emirates is located at the southern end of the Gulf of Persia and has a land border with Oman in the east and northeast; in the south, the country borders on Saudi Arabia. The capital is Abu Dhabi (975 700 residents, 2013).

Country facts

Ittiḥād al-Imārāt al-˙Arabiyya / United Arab Emirates
Country abbreviation: AE
Area: 77 700 km²
Population (2019): 9.6 million residents
Capital: Abu Dhabi
Main languages: Arabic
State: Monarchy
Head of State: Khalifa ibn Zayid al-Nahyan (President)
Head of Government: Muhammad Rashid al-Maktum
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 43,005
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 41,010
Currency unit: 1 dirham = 100 fils
Currency code: AED
Country number (telephony): 971
Internet Domain Name: ae
Time difference compared to Sweden: +3
National Day: December 2 (Independence Day, 1971)

Nature

Land use: forest (2%), agricultural land (0.5%), other (97.5%)
Highest mountain: Jabal Yibir (1,527 m asl)

Population

Population density (2019): 122 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 1.0%; birth number 11 ‰, death number 1 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (14%), 15-64 (85%), 65- (1%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 77 years, women 79 years
Infant mortality (2019): 6 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 10 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.863 (place 34 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 87%
Most populous city (2013): Abu Dhabi (975,700 residents)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (1%), industry (50%), service (49%)
Exports (2017): US $ 308,500 million
Main export products: oil, natural gas
Main exporting countries: India, Iran, Japan
Imports (2017): US $ 229,200 million
Main import products: machinery and means of transport, chemicals
Main importing countries: China, USA, India
Railway network: nothing in operation

Geography of the United Arab Emirates

Location

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is located in the southeastern corner of the Arabian Peninsula, bordering Saudi Arabia to the south and west, Oman to the southeast, and the Persian Gulf to the north. The country shares maritime borders with Qatar and Iran. The UAE is composed of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah. Abu Dhabi is the largest and the capital, while Dubai is the most populous city and an international business hub. The UAE spans about 83,600 square kilometers (32,300 square miles), making it a relatively small but economically influential country.

Topography

The UAE’s geography is marked by a combination of coastal plains, desert landscapes, and mountain ranges. The coastal region along the Persian Gulf is characterized by low-lying land, with sandy beaches and a series of lagoons and bays. This coastal area is where the country’s major urban centers, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi, are located. Inland, the country is largely dominated by the vast Arabian Desert, which covers much of the central and southern parts of the UAE. This desert is known for its towering sand dunes and arid environment, though oases and some fertile areas exist.

The eastern part of the UAE is more mountainous, with the Hajar Mountains extending along the border with Oman. These mountains rise to around 1,800 meters (5,900 feet) at their highest point and are known for their rugged terrain and cooler temperatures. The Hajar Mountains are an important feature of the landscape, providing natural barriers and influencing local weather patterns.

The UAE’s natural resources are concentrated in its deserts and coastal areas, where oil reserves are abundant. The country also has a number of islands, including the islands of Abu Dhabi, the Palm Islands in Dubai, and several smaller islands off the coast of Fujairah.

Natural Resources

The UAE is one of the wealthiest countries in the world, largely due to its vast reserves of oil and natural gas. The country’s economy has long been based on petroleum extraction, with the UAE holding some of the largest oil reserves globally, particularly in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. Oil production is a major contributor to the UAE’s GDP, with significant revenues coming from exports. Natural gas is another important resource, and the UAE has invested in infrastructure to support both the extraction and exportation of these resources.

In addition to hydrocarbons, the UAE has significant financial reserves, which have enabled the country to invest heavily in infrastructure, real estate, and renewable energy projects. Despite its reliance on oil, the UAE has made substantial efforts in recent years to diversify its economy, especially in sectors such as tourism, finance, trade, and technology.

Climate of the United Arab Emirates

General Climate

The UAE experiences a hot desert climate, characterized by very high temperatures in the summer and mild, pleasant winters. The country’s coastal proximity to the Persian Gulf significantly influences its climate, with humidity levels rising during the summer months, particularly along the coast. The weather can be very oppressive in the summer, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) during the day. The high humidity along the coast can make the heat feel even more intense, particularly in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

In contrast, the winter months (from November to March) bring more temperate conditions, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) during the day and cooler nights. Winter is the most pleasant season, attracting tourists to the country for its mild weather and outdoor activities.

Rainfall and Seasonal Variations

The UAE receives very little rainfall, making it one of the driest regions on Earth. Average annual precipitation typically ranges from 50 mm to 120 mm (2 to 5 inches), with most of the rain falling during the winter months. The country’s inland and desert regions receive the least rainfall, while the coastal areas are slightly wetter, particularly during the months of December through February. However, rain is sporadic, and drought conditions can often be experienced for extended periods.

While the country is largely dry, the UAE has invested in water desalination plants to meet the growing demand for fresh water. This technology has allowed the country to address the challenges posed by its natural water scarcity.

People of the United Arab Emirates

Population and Ethnic Composition

The UAE has a population of around 9.3 million people, with a significant proportion of foreign workers. The country has a very diverse demographic composition, with Emiratis (UAE nationals) making up around 11-12% of the population, while expatriates from around the world constitute the majority. The largest expatriate groups come from countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the Philippines, and other Arab nations. This immigrant labor force plays a crucial role in various sectors, including construction, hospitality, retail, and services.

Emirati society is influenced by a blend of traditional Arab culture and the modernity brought about by rapid economic development. While the majority of the population is Arab, there are also smaller communities of Persians, East Asians, and Westerners, particularly in urban areas. Despite the high number of foreign nationals, the UAE government has emphasized the importance of preserving Emirati culture and values, fostering national identity through policies of cultural integration and education.

Language

Arabic is the official language of the UAE, and it is used in government, education, and the media. The variant spoken in the UAE is a Gulf Arabic dialect, which is widely understood in the region. English is also extensively spoken, particularly in business and trade, due to the international nature of the economy and the large expatriate community. Many people in the UAE are bilingual, speaking both Arabic and English fluently.

In addition to Arabic and English, many expatriates speak their native languages, such as Hindi, Urdu, Tagalog, and various other languages, reflecting the multicultural makeup of the population. The prevalence of multiple languages in daily life makes the UAE one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world.

Religion

Islam is the official religion of the UAE, and the majority of the population (around 75%) are Muslim, predominantly Sunni. The country’s legal system and cultural norms are heavily influenced by Islamic principles, particularly in personal matters such as marriage, family, and inheritance. However, the UAE is considered one of the more moderate countries in the Gulf region in terms of religious tolerance and practice.

The UAE allows the practice of other religions, and there are small communities of Christians, Hindus, and Buddhists, particularly among the expatriate population. There are several churches, temples, and other places of worship in the country, especially in areas like Dubai, where religious diversity is more pronounced. The government has fostered a policy of religious tolerance, and there have been efforts to build interfaith dialogue and promote understanding among different religious communities.

Economy of the United Arab Emirates

Economic Structure

The economy of the UAE is one of the most diversified in the Gulf region. Historically, it was dependent on oil, but in recent decades, the country has made significant strides in diversifying its economy. Oil still remains a critical sector, but industries such as tourism, real estate, finance, construction, and technology now play a major role in the country’s economic development.

Dubai, in particular, has become a global financial center, with major investment hubs, banking institutions, and multinational corporations establishing a presence in the city. The UAE also has a thriving trade sector, largely due to Dubai’s position as a global shipping hub, with its ports and logistics infrastructure handling significant volumes of cargo.

Tourism is a major contributor to the UAE economy, particularly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where luxurious resorts, shopping malls, and cultural attractions draw millions of visitors each year. Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island development, are examples of the country’s ambitious projects that have fueled tourism and international interest.

Energy and Industry

Energy remains a cornerstone of the UAE’s economy, with the country possessing some of the largest oil reserves in the world. However, recognizing the volatility of oil prices, the UAE has focused on diversifying its energy sector by investing in renewable energy, such as solar and nuclear power. The government has set ambitious goals for green energy, with projects like the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, one of the largest solar parks in the world, showcasing the country’s commitment to sustainability.

In addition to energy, the UAE has a growing manufacturing sector, with industries in chemicals, metals, food processing, and construction materials. The country’s strong infrastructure and strategic location in the Gulf have also made it a leader in trade and logistics, with its ports and airports serving as vital links for global supply chains.

Finance and Trade

The UAE is a global financial hub, particularly Dubai, which hosts numerous multinational banks, insurance companies, and investment firms. The country’s financial services sector benefits from its strategic location between East and West, offering access to both emerging markets and developed economies. The UAE has a well-developed banking system, with strict regulations and a focus on transparency and security.

The country’s trade sector is robust, with Dubai serving as a key re-export hub. Major exports include oil, natural gas, aluminum, and gold, while imports include machinery, electronics, and consumer goods. The UAE has developed a strong trade network with countries across Asia, Europe, and Africa, and its free trade agreements with other countries and regions have enhanced its global business standing.

Government of the United Arab Emirates

Political System

The UAE is a federation of seven emirates, each of which is governed by its own monarch. The UAE’s political structure is a combination of a federal system and a system of absolute monarchy, with the emirates maintaining a significant level of autonomy. The president of the UAE is selected from among the rulers of the emirates, and the position is usually held by the ruler of Abu Dhabi, the largest emirate. The vice president and prime minister are typically from Dubai.

The country does not have political parties, and political life is shaped by the ruling families of the emirates. While there are elections for the Federal National Council (FNC), a consultative body with limited powers, the political system is not democratic in the traditional sense. The FNC’s members are partially elected by an electoral college, but its role is advisory, and decisions are made by the ruling family.

Political History

The United Arab Emirates was formed in 1971 when six of the seven emirates (Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Umm Al-Quwain, Fujairah, and Ajman) united to form a federation. The seventh emirate, Ras Al Khaimah, joined shortly afterward. Before this union, the emirates were British protectorates, and their political history was shaped by British influence and control.

The UAE’s formation followed the end of British protection in the region, as the British withdrew from their commitments to safeguard the Gulf states. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the ruler of Abu Dhabi, played a crucial role in the establishment of the UAE and served as its first president until his death in 2004. Under his leadership, the country saw rapid modernization and infrastructure development, particularly in the areas of oil extraction and public services.

The UAE has remained a stable and prosperous country, with a focus on economic growth, modernization, and regional cooperation. Its foreign policy has emphasized maintaining good relations with both Western countries and regional powers, particularly in the Gulf region.

Governance Challenges

The UAE’s governance is characterized by strong central authority, but this has led to some challenges related to political freedoms and human rights. The country is often criticized for its lack of political pluralism, limited freedom of expression, and restrictions on the press. Political opposition is not tolerated, and dissent is often met with legal consequences.

However, the UAE has made significant strides in developing its economy and infrastructure, and it is considered one of the most prosperous and stable countries in the Middle East. The country has also focused on environmental sustainability and the diversification of its economy, especially in renewable energy and technology.

Culture of the United Arab Emirates

Music and Dance

Music in the UAE is deeply influenced by both Arab and Persian traditions, and it plays an important role in the country’s cultural life. Traditional Emirati music features instruments like the oud (a stringed instrument), the darbuka (a goblet drum), and the qanun (a type of zither). Al Ayala is a traditional dance performed by groups of men, often involving the use of sticks and synchronized movements to the rhythm of drums.

Western music has become popular in the UAE, particularly in urban areas like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where international concerts and music festivals are common. The country’s multicultural population contributes to a vibrant music scene, with influences from India, the Philippines, and other regions.

Art and Craft

The UAE has a rich tradition of arts and crafts, with influences from the broader Arab world as well as Persian and Indian cultures. Traditional crafts include textile weaving, pottery, and metalwork. The UAE’s artisans are known for their intricate gold jewelry, pottery, and the famous khaleeji embroidery. Modern art in the UAE is growing, with numerous galleries and exhibitions showcasing contemporary works. The UAE’s support of the arts is evident in institutions like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.

Cuisine

Emirati cuisine reflects the country’s Arab heritage, with an emphasis on rice, lamb, chicken, and fish. Traditional dishes like machboos (a spiced rice dish with meat) and al harees (a wheat and meat dish) are staples. Dates, yogurt, and a variety of nuts also play a significant role in the diet. Due to the UAE’s global population, the food scene is diverse, with popular dishes from India, Iran, and the Levant coexisting alongside traditional Emirati foods.

Festivals and Celebrations

The UAE celebrates numerous festivals and holidays throughout the year, the most important being Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, marking significant events in the Islamic calendar. National Day, celebrated on December 2, commemorates the formation of the UAE in 1971, with parades, concerts, and fireworks.

Dubai Shopping Festival and Abu Dhabi Film Festival are also important cultural events, drawing international attention to the country’s tourism and entertainment industries. Additionally, the Dubai World Cup, a major horse racing event, has become a fixture on the global sporting calendar.