Overview of UAE

Profile

The UAE faces the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman and is a nation that rapidly modernized as an oil-producing country. Social infrastructure supported by oil revenues and low taxation are characteristics, with approximately 90% of the population being foreign workers. Capital Abu Dhabi has abundant oil resources and the world's largest sovereign wealth fund, while Dubai is a logistics, finance, and tourism hub with towering skyscrapers and massive commercial facilities. While Islam is the state religion, relatively open cultural policies are adopted with multi-ethnic coexistence. Recently promoting decarbonization and economic diversification with initiatives like renewable energy city "Masdar City."

Official name: United Arab Emirates
Common name: UAE
Numeric code: 784
Alpha-3 code: ARE
Alpha-2 code: AE
Population: Approximately 10 million (2023)
Population density: Approximately 118
Primary languages: Arabic
Major religions: Islam
National anthem: Īshī bilādī
Calling code: +971
Internet TLD: .ae

History

Gained independence from British protectorate in 1971 with seven emirates forming federation. Rapidly grew after oil discovery.

Flourished through maritime trade from ancient Magan civilization, underwent Islamization, Portuguese and Ottoman rule, becoming British "Trucial Coast" in 19th century. Oil discovered in Abu Dhabi and Dubai in 1960s accelerated modernization with oil money. Upon British withdrawal from east of Suez, seven emirates gained independence and established federal state. Under founding president Zayed, infrastructure and welfare expanded, establishing global position as tourism and financial hub in 21st century.

Geography & climate

80% of land is desert with red dunes inland, Hajar Mountains running in east with mountain ranges up to 1,700m elevation

Desert climate (BWh)

Area: Asia / 83600 km²
Capital: Abu Dhabi
Largest city: Dubai
Coastal status: Yes
Bordering countries: Saudi Arabia, Oman

Natural resources

Crude oil, Natural gas, Limestone, Pearls, Solar energy, Salt, Groundwater, Fishery resources, Wind power, Desert tourism resources

Politics

Government: Federal absolute monarchy (each emirate has hereditary ruler)

Economy

Currency: UAE Dirham (AED)

GDP (nominal): 5,080 hundred million USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 11,600 hundred million USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Arabic

Time zone: UAE Standard Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Arab Emirati, Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Iranian, Filipino, Western European, Other Asian

Life expectancy

Approximately 78.3 years

Literacy rate

93%

National sports

Soccer, Cricket, Camel racing, Horse racing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Falconry