United Arab Emirates History
The Arabian Peninsula in western Asia is home to the United Arab Emirates. It has seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. These emirates came together to form a federation with one another to create the former UAE in 1971.
Early History
Part of what became the UAE had a long history, dating back to prehistory. For thousands of years, the UAE occupied a key trading position along the coast of the Persian Gulf. It is well known for pearl diving and fishing and was inhabited by nomadic tribes.
British Influence
During the early 19th century, Britain entered into a series of treaties with individual emirates on the coast to protect their trading vessels. As a result, Britain took control of the region until 1971, when they announced they planned to leave the Gulf. On December 2, 1971, a federation was established out of the six emirates.
Formation of UAE
On December 2nd, 1971, the UAE was officially formed when six emirates came together to create a federation. Ras Al Khaimah joined the federation some months later, in February 1972. The first President of the UAE was then Ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zaid bin Sultan Al Nahyan, until he died in 2004.
Rapid Development
Sheikh Zaid was the leader who led the UAE under effective, rapid development and modernization. This growth was encouraged by the discovery of oil in the 1950s, which transformed the country into one of the world's richest countries. As a result, there was an influx of foreign workers who would help to build infrastructure and develop industries. Over the years, the UAE's economy grew apart from oil and diversified into tourism, real estate, and finance.
Antiquity
The UAE was able to maintain its culture while absorbing modernization. Yet, while many parts of the country still live out the traditional Bedouin way of life, cities such as Dubai have become global hubs for business, tourism, and entertainment. The UAE has advanced significantly in the fields of technology, healthcare, and education in recent years.
Islam
The UAE's official religion is Islam, which is part of UAE culture and daily life. There is a date for the call to prayer 5 times a day, and traditional Islamic values are reflected in many aspects of society. However, the UAE is also famed for its religious tolerance and for allowing other faiths to exist, with churches, temples, and other places of worship visible throughout the country.
Portuguese era
The region was under Portuguese rule briefly before the UAE was formed in the 16th century. The Portuguese established several trading posts along the coast, but they were only quickly displaced by local rulers and other European rival powers.
British era and discovery of oil
In the early 20th century, Britain made deals with separate emirates to safeguard its interests in the area. During this time, oil was discovered in Abu Dhabi in 1958 and Dubai in 1966, which grew the economy rapidly and made it prosperous. The Persian Gulf Campaign was a British campaign launched in 1809 to safeguard their regional trade routes. This resulted in their treaties with different emirates, strengthening their influence in the area. The British East India Company launched a military campaign in 1819 against the Al Qasimi tribe of the UAE.The Persian Gulf needed to be safeguarded, and piracy had to be stopped. It lasted two years and secured several treaties with local rulers, effectively ending piracy in the area. The British and various emirates signed a landmark land agreement, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Umm Al Quwain in 1820, known as the General Maritime Treaty of 1820. As for these emirates, the treaty gave Britain control of their foreign relations and maritime affairs in return for their protection.
Trucial States, Union, and Independence
During the British era, the UAE was known as the Trucial States, the term given to the seven emirates on a coastal strip roughly coined by the British. The rulers of these emirates discussed forming a federation when, in 1968, Britain announced its intent to withdraw from the Gulf by 1971. Six emirates merged to form the United Arab Emirates on December 2, 1971; Ras Al Khaimah joined in February 1972. Every year on December 2nd, the UAE National Day celebrates this historic day while also celebrating and honoring the country's legacy and achievements. The establishment of the UAE was a major landmark that contributed to the fast pace of growth and development of the country into a contemporary form of a prosperous nation. The UAE today is famous for its awe-inspiring skyscrapers, luxurious way of life, and lively cultural life, and it is one of the favorite destinations in the world.
Post-Independence period
Under the leadership of Sheikh Zayed's successors, we've seen the UAE thrive since its independence. In addition, it has become a center of international events and conferences, placing itself on the map as being global.
Geography
Situated on the Arabian Peninsula, the United Arab Emirates is bounded to the east by Oman and to the west and south by Saudi Arabia. One has a huge desert, some amazing mountains, and coastlines. The country experiences mild winters and scorching summers due to its harsh desert climate.
Biodiversity
There is a lot of biodiversity in the United Arab Emirates, despite its desert climate. Its deserts have plants and animals well adapted to the desert climate, and its coastal areas are cored with coral reefs and marine life. Additionally, the country has taken different conservation initiatives for its wildlife and natural habitat.
Climate
In general, the climate of the UAE is hot, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees in the summer months and mild and pleasant winters. The country has very little rainfall, and most of it is in winter. The desert regions are also exposed to sandstorms.
Modernization
The UAE has recently been at the forefront of modernization and innovation. Some of the world's most recognized architectural wonders, such as Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, also call this home. In addition, the country has poured investments into technology by establishing initiatives like Smart Dubai, which aims to turn the city into a smart and sustainable metropolis.
Government and politics
The UAE consists of seven absolute monarchies whose control rests with the royal families of each emirate. Yet the country, which is also federal, has a central government in Abu Dhabi. The UAE head of state is the President, elected from among the seven rulers for five years. The UAE is considered one of the top countries for adopting digital transformation and e-government services. To make conducting business easier and accessing government information, the government has delivered several initiatives to offer efficient and easily accessible online services to its citizens and residents.
The UAE is a federation of seven emirates, each having its own ruler and administration. The country's constitution provides a federal presidential system comprising a president and vice president, elected from among the rulers of the seven emirates. This year, in 2024, the UAE will mark 50 years under the current political structure since its establishment and, by all means, will celebrate 50 years of growth and progress.
Administrative divisions
The local government and leadership of their respective emirates are local for each of the seven Emirate of the UAE. These emirates are also the cities of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. Furthermore, each emirate is divided into municipalities that are responsible for providing these services to the general population of these emirates. Wadi Madha is an exclave of the United Arab Emirates within Omani territory. The area is mountainous, with a small population and a police force, as well as its own government offices and postal system. In 1969, during border negotiations between the UAE and Oman, the area was exclave of the emirate of Fujairah.
Foreign relations
UAE has shown real interest in maintaining good diplomatic relations with many countries worldwide and declared its role in peace and stability in the region. Several international organizations are members, including the United Nations, World Trade Organization, and Arab League. A large expatriate resident population from different nationalities has strong economic ties with many other countries.
The UAE has always scored high on the Global Peace Index, which a country’s ranking on the level of peace and safety is based on, among other things, crime rates, political stability, and level of military involvement. The UAE was ranked 12th in 2020 among 163 countries, meaning it is one of the safest countries to live in.
Military
Traditionally, the UAE has depended on its air force and navy for defense and has a strong, well-equipped army. It also has a compulsory national service program forcing Emirati men and women into the armed service or other government agencies after finishing their education.
Moreover, the country has also been developing its defense industry and has produced advanced weapons systems locally in recent years. Partnerships with countries like the United States have helped strengthen military affairs and the overall security of the UAE.
The UAE has also started several initiatives to provide an atmosphere of innovation and development, the Baynunah program being one example. This program aims to promote research and development in various key industries, such as aerospace, renewable energy, and healthcare, to elevate the country to a knowledge-based knowledge-based economy.
It is also popular for international events and conferences because of the UAE's impressive facilities and infrastructure. The International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX), one of the country's largest events, features the latest defense technology worldwide.
Formed in 1993, IDEX has evolved into one of the world's largest defense exhibitions, hosting key delegations worldwide. The exhibition also includes a naval exhibition on maritime security capabilities and innovation named NAVDEX.
Dubai Expo 2020
The World Expo is due to be held in Dubai in 2021, postponed one year due to the pandemic, in line with its reputation as a hub for international events. Aimed at gathering countries and organizations worldwide to showcase innovation and solutions to global challenges, the expo's theme is 'Connecting minds, creating the future.
The UAE would use Dubai Expo 2020 to showcase its achievements in many fields and promote itself as a leading business, tourism, and innovation destination. Expected to draw millions of visitors from all over the world and would have a lasting effect on the country's economy and development.
Law
The civil law system is based on French law, and Islamic law (mainly Shia around Dubai) is partially incorporated. The country's laws are changing rapidly due to rapid development and a diverse population. The UAE is one area where the use of Sharia courts to determine questions of personal status for Muslim citizens of the state is noteworthy. The personal status cases of non-Muslims can also go before their religious and foreign courts.
Over the last few years, the UAE has advanced human rights and tolerance within its societies, particularly women's rights. Last year, it became one of the few countries to pass a landmark federal law ensuring equal pay for men and women in the private sector. The country has also moved to combat human trafficking and protect the rights of its migrant workers. The UAE's spirit of determination and ambition means it is looking towards another bright future as it celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2024.
Human rights
The UAE undertakes to respect and protect the rights of all persons in its territories and other places under its jurisdiction and promote these rights. It has taken major steps in terms of this, for example, through the establishment of the UAE Gender Balance Council and the establishment of the National Human Rights Institution.
The government implemented policies to support women's participation in the workforce and equal opportunities for education and employment. There are also strict laws against the discrimination of race, gender, religion, or disability. Challenges remain, but the UAE is working to establish a society that can build on its successes and advance toward inclusivity, tolerance, and respect for basic human rights.
Migrant workers
As mentioned, the UAE has a large expatriate community – 80% of the UAE's population comprises foreign nationals. These people contribute immensely to the country's economy and development and are involved in construction, healthcare, and the hospitality industry.
Despite all these, the government has taken certain steps to ensure that migrant workers are not denied their rights, not to pay them the minimum wage, and to provide them with access to healthcare and education. Human trafficking and forced labor are forbidden in the country with tight laws. New laws were introduced recently to improve migrant workers' living conditions, regulate their accommodations, and open recruitment. We are working to ensure that all our workers are treated fairly and have a legal channel if needed.
Environmental policy
According to the Climate Change Performance Index, the UAE was ranked first in the Middle East in 2020 for efforts towards tackling climate change. It has also set ambitious targets for increasing its use of renewable energy sources and reducing its carbon footprint. The country has heavily invested in sustainable urban development initiatives, including Masdar City, a sustainable urban development project to be carbon neutral. In addition, the UAE has several wildlife reserves and protected areas to show its commitment to creature covering.
Economy
Most of the UAE's revenue comes from oil and gas, and it has a diversified and thriving economy. Over the past few years, the government has tried diversifying the economy to reduce oil dependency and create long-term growth. Dubai has emerged as a global hub for industry, trade, and tourism. The UAE boasts one of the world's highest GDP per capita rates and is a prosperous economic entity.
Business and Finance
With its strategic location, modern infrastructure, and several incentives for foreign investors, the UAE provides a favorable business environment. It also represents a free market economy.
Furthermore, the country's strong financial sector supports its high economic growth. Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is one of the world's most attractive financial centers, attracting multinational companies and the world's best talent. Due to its stable political climate, strong rule of law, and pro-business policies, the UAE remains an attractive destination for companies wishing to expand into the Middle East or set up here.
VAT
The UAE first imposed a value-added tax (VAT) in 2018 at the rate of 5 percent on most goods and services. The government was trying to diversify its revenues and base them on something other than oil. However, to guard against any feelings of resistance, VAT was profitable to the country's economy as it created much revenue for the government. The UAE will also follow the lead of more developed nations that have implemented similar taxation systems.
Energy
The UAE is one of the world's biggest producers of oil and natural gas. Yet they have realized that going to sustainable energy sources and reducing carbon footprint is necessary.
It was also the first Arab country to launch a nuclear power plant in 2020 to diversify its energy mix. Additionally, the government has plans to produce 50 percent of its electricity from clean sources by 2050, an ambitious target for which it has laid out its plans.
Tourism
The UAE is an A-rated tourist destination that draws nearly 4 million tourists annually. Combining stunning architecture, the world's most famous attractions, from Burj Khalifa to Palm Jumeirah, and a vibrant culture, it's no wonder the country remains a favorite amongst travelers. The UAE has invested heavily in tourism infrastructure, theme parks, resorts, and cultural sites. Moreover, it is a venue for various international events and festivals held every year all over the town to boost its tourism sector.
Transport
A good transport system consisting of modern roads, airports, and ports links the seven Emirates in the UAE. In addition, it offers an extensive public transportation system comprising metro systems and buses from which residents and tourists can make simple movements across the country. The UAE is also home to one of the world's leading airlines, Emirates, which links the country to cities worldwide. To support economic growth and move people and goods more easily, the government persists in investing in improving its transport infrastructure.
Telecommunications
The UAE has an advanced telecommunications infrastructure and high-speed internet connectivity and has one of the world's highest rates of mobile phone penetration. This has grown into different industries, which include e-commerce, fintech, and telecommuting.
The country also has a well-regulated and competitive telecommunications market, with several companies providing innovative services that meet and satisfy consumers' demands. Second, the UAE manages to stay ahead of its regional competitors regarding technological know-how, for it has invested heavily in modern futuristic technologies such as 5G networks.
Demographics
More than 200 nationalities live in the country. Thus, the UAE is a melting pot of different cultures. Few people are born in the UAE, but the nation – and its diverse, cosmopolitan society – was built on the backs of generations of expatriates. The emphasis on tolerance and inclusivity has taken place in the last few years, with, for example, the announced Year of Tolerance in 2019. This has ingrained in the UAE a reputation as a nation that welcomes and accepts people from all walks of life.
Largest cities
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the two biggest cities in the UAE. Dubai is famous for its remarkable skyline, luxury shopping malls, and active business district. On the other hand, Abu Dhabi serves as the country's capital, and other government institutions, such as museums and cultural facilities, are also located there. Both cities have a high standard of living, providing numerous opportunities for expatriates to live, work, and enjoy luxury. Other cities of the United Arab Emirates are Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al Khaimah, Umm al Quwain, and Al Ain.
Language
Arabic is the official language in the UAE, however English is widely spoken and primarily utilized in business and education. Other spoken languages include Hindi, Urdu, Bengali, Tagalog, and Farsi.
Religion
The UAE is an Islamic country with a large Muslim population. However, it gives freedom to religion, and you can find places of worship of different faiths throughout the country.
Education
Education has been a major investment in the UAE to provide its citizens and residents with high-quality education. There are several top-ranked universities and schools and one of the best curricula in the world, and students come from all parts of the globe to learn. Also, the government provides many scholarships and a financial aid program to help with education matters. Higher education is also now a factor since the UAE is home to international branch campuses of leading universities.
Health
The UAE offers both public and private hospitals and clinics with a modern, well well-equipped-ell-equipped. Besides, it covers universal healthcare services for its citizens and residents. The country is also a popular destination for medical tourism nowadays, with state-of-the-art facilities and well-trained healthcare professionals. To improve the accessibility of health and its people's health, the government continues to invest in the healthcare sector.
Culture
As a trading hub with a multi-ethnic population in the past, the UAE has a rich cultural heritage. The Emirati civilization is based greatly on Bedouin traditions and has some roots in different cultures. However, the year is full of festivals and events intended to demonstrate the country's vibrant arts, music, and cuisine. Even though the UAE is modern and cosmopolitan, it strives hard to maintain its roots and introduce those to the world for future generations.
Media
A handful of local and international broadcasters, newspapers, and magazines occupy the media industry in the UAE. Moreover, it has a large digital presence, low internet penetration, and active social media usage. However, the government sets strict rules on media content and will crack down on any criticism of its policies or cultural values. However, this has raised some censorship concerns, and the UAE is steadily growing its media reach and encouraging freedom of expression as long as it stays within limits.
Cuisine
Staples include traditional dishes such as shawarma, falafel, and hummus, as well as food, which plays an important part in Emirati culture. However, being quite a diverse country in terms of population, the UAE provides many foods worldwide. It's also a beacon for its luxurious dining scene, with multiple high-end restaurants and celebrity chefs making a name for themselves in the food circuit. The UAE also has its street food culture — affordable and delicious fare for locals and tourists.
Sports
Despite that, the UAE is known for state-of-the-art sports facilities and for hosting many high-level sporting events, such as the Dubai World Cup, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and the Dubai Tennis Championships. In motorsport, it has its own F1 team, as well.
The country's most popular sport is football (soccer), and many Emiratis are passionate about it. Cricket, golf, tennis, and camel racing are other popular sports. And the government still backs and promotes sports as a fundamental part of this country's national identity.
Sustainability
Over the last few years, the UAE has made huge strides towards sustainable development and reduced its carbon footprint. This covers spending on renewable energy, the statement of green building standards, and encouraging sustainable practices in different sectors.
The country also launched the UAE Vision 2021, which aims for sustainability in energy, water, transport, and waste management. The government wants to be the global leader in sustainable living and responsible development for future generations.
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