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United Arab Emirates
دولة الامارات العربية المتحدة
Dawlat al-Imārāt al-‘Arabīyah al-Muttaḥidah
Flag Coat of arms
Motto: الله , الوطن , الرئيس[citation needed]
Allah, al-Waṭan, al-Ra'īs  (Arabic)
"God, Nation, President"
Anthem: Ishy Bilady
Capital Abu Dhabi
24°28′N 54°22′E / 24.467°N 54.367°E / 24.467; 54.367
Largest city Dubai
Official language(s) Arabic
Ethnic groups  16.5% Emirati, 83.5% non-Emirati Arabs, Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Chinese, Filipino, Thai, Iranian, (Westerners) (2009) [1][2]
Demonym Emirati
Government Federal constitutional monarchy
 -  President Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan
 -  Prime Minister Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum
Independence
 -  From the United Kingdom
December 2, 1971 
Area
 -  Total 83,600 1 km2 (116th)
32,278 sq mi 
 -  Water (%) negligible
Population
 -  2007 estimate 6,000,000[3] (120th)
 -  2010 census 6,888,888 
 -  Density 55/km2 (150th)
142.5/sq mi
GDP (PPP) 2009 estimate
 -  Total $187.851 billion[4] (54th)
 -  Per capita $38,283[4] (14th)
GDP (nominal) 2009 estimate
 -  Total $228.578 billion[4] (36th)
 -  Per capita $46,584[4] (8th)
Gini (2008) 36 
HDI (2007) ▲ 0.903[5] (very high) (35th)
Currency UAE dirham (AED)
Time zone GMT+4 (UTC+4)
 -  Summer (DST) not observed (UTC+4)
Date formats dd/mm/yyyy (CE)
Drives on the right
Internet TLD .ae
Calling code 971
United Arab Emirates portal
1 The country's exact size is unknown because of disputed claims to several islands in the Persian Gulf, because of the lack of precise information on the size of many of these islands, and because most of its land boundaries, especially with Saudi Arabia, remain undemarcated.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) (Arabic: دولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة‎, Dawlat al-Imārāt al-‘Arabīyah al-Muttaḥidah) is a federation of seven emirates situated in the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula in Southwest Asia on the Persian Gulf, bordering Oman and Saudi Arabia. .The UAE consists of seven states, termed emirates, which are Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Quwain, Ras al-Khaimah and Fujairah.^ Doctor, Vein Surgery, Hospital Franco Emirien, Dr. William Kalchoff Profile, Abu Dhabi, Dubai UAE .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 ^ General Practitioner, Surgeon, Al Soor Clinic, Dr. A Syed Ghiyasudeen Profile, Deira, Dubai UAE .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 ^ Cosmetic Surgery Specialist, Dubai Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Ahmed Ghanem Profile, Umm Suqueim, Dubai UAE .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 The capital and second largest city of the United Arab Emirates is Abu Dhabi. It is also the country's center of political, industrial, and cultural activities.[6]
Before 1971, the UAE was known as the Trucial States or Trucial Oman, in reference to a 19th-century truce between the United Kingdom and several Arab Sheikhs. The name Pirate Coast was also used in reference to the area's emirates in the 18th to early 20th century.[7]
The political system of the United Arab Emirates, based on the 1971 Constitution, comprises several intricately connected governing bodies. Islam is the official religion and Arabic is the official language.[8]
The United Arab Emirates has the world's seventh largest oil reserves[9] and possesses one of the most developed economies in the Middle East. It is currently the thirty-sixth largest economy at market exchange rates, and has a high per capita gross domestic product, with a nominal per capita GDP of $46,584 as per the IMF.[10] The country is fourteenth largest in purchasing power per capita and has a relatively high Human Development Index for the Asian continent, ranking 35th globally.[11] The United Arab Emirates is classified as a high income developing economy by the IMF.
The United Arab Emirates is a founding member of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, and a member state of the Arab League. It is also a member of the United Nations, Organisation of the Islamic Conference, the OPEC, and the World Trade Organization.

Contents

History

Main article: History of the United Arab Emirates

Origins

An 18th-century watchtower in Hatta
The earliest known human habitation in the UAE dated from the Neolithic period, 5500 BCE. At this early stage, there is proof of interaction with the outside world, particularly with civilizations to the north in Persia. These contacts persisted and became wide-ranging, probably motivated by trade in copper from the Hajar Mountains, which commenced around 3000 BCE.[12] Foreign trade, the recurring motif in the history of this strategic region, flourished also in later periods, facilitated by the domestication of the camel at the end of the second millennium BCE.[13]
By the first century CE overland caravan traffic between Syria and cities in southern Iraq began. Also, there was seaborne travel to the important port of Omana (perhaps present-day Umm al-Qaiwain) and then to India. These routes were an alternative to the Red Sea route used by the Romans.[14] Pearls had been exploited in the area for millennia but at this time the trade reached new heights. Seafaring was also a mainstay and major fairs were held at Dibba, bringing in merchants from as far as China.[15]

Advent of Islam

The arrival of envoys from the Islamic prophet Muhammad in 630 heralded the conversion of the region to Islam. After Muhammad's death, one of the major battles of the Ridda Wars was fought at Dibba resulting in the defeat of the non-Muslims and the triumph of Islam in the Arabian Peninsula.
In 637, Julfar (today Ra's al-Khaimah) was used as a staging post for the conquest of Iran. Over many centuries, Julfar became a wealthy port and pearling center from which dhows traveled throughout the Indian Ocean.

Portuguese control

See also: History of Oman and Economic history of Portugal
Portuguese expansion into the Indian Ocean in the early sixteenth century following Vasco da Gama's route of exploration saw them battle the Safavid Persia up the coast of the Persian Gulf. The Portuguese controlled the area for 150 years, in which they conquered the inhabitants of the Arabian peninsula.[16] Vasco da Gama was helped by Ahmad Ibn Majid, a navigator and cartographer from Julfar, to find the route of spices from Asia.[17][18]

British and Ottoman rule

During the 16th century, portions of the nation came under the direct influence of the Ottoman Empire.[19] Thereafter the region was known to the British as the "Pirate Coast", as raiders based there harassed the shipping industry despite both European and Arab navies patrolling the area from the 17th century into the 19th.[20] British expeditions to protect the Indian trade from raiders at Ras al-Khaimah led to campaigns against that headquarters and other harbours along the coast in 1819. The next year, a peace treaty was signed to which all the sheikhs of the coast adhered. Raids continued intermittently until 1835, when the sheikhs agreed not to engage in hostilities at sea. In 1853, they signed a treaty with the United Kingdom, under which the sheikhs (the "Trucial Sheikhdoms") agreed to a "perpetual maritime truce." It was enforced by the United Kingdom, and disputes among sheikhs were referred to the British for settlement.[21]
Flag of the Trucial Coast
Primarily in reaction to the ambitions of other European countries, the United Kingdom and the Trucial Sheikhdoms established closer bonds in an 1892 treaty, similar to treaties entered into by the UK with other Persian Gulf principalities. The sheikhs agreed not to dispose of any territory except to the United Kingdom and not to enter into relationships with any foreign government other than the United Kingdom without its consent. In return, the British promised to protect the Trucial Coast from all aggression by sea and to help in case of land attack.[22]

The rise and fall of the pearling industry

During the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the pearling industry thrived in the relative calm at sea, providing both income and employment to the people of the Persian Gulf. It began to become a good economic resource for the local people. Then the First World War had a severe impact on the pearl fishery, but it was the economic depression of the late 1920s and early 1930s, coupled with the Japanese invention of the cultured pearl, that all but destroyed it. The industry eventually faded away shortly after the Second World War, when the newly independent Government of India imposed heavy taxation on pearls imported from the Arab states of the Persian Gulf.[23] The decline of pearling resulted in a very difficult era, with little opportunity to build any infrastructure.
Dubai in the mid-20th century

Beginning of the oil era

At the beginning of the 1960s, the first oil company teams carried out preliminary surveys and the first cargo of crude was exported from Abu Dhabi in 1962. As oil revenues increased, Ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, undertook a massive construction program, building schools, housing, hospitals and roads. When Dubai’s oil exports commenced in 1969, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the de facto ruler of Dubai, was also able to use oil revenues to improve the quality of life of his people.[24]
In 1955, the United Kingdom sided with Abu Dhabi in the latter's dispute with Oman over the Buraimi Oasis, another territory to the south.[25] .A 1974 agreement between Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia would have settled the Abu Dhabi-Saudi border dispute; however, the agreement has yet to be ratified by the UAE government and is not recognised by the Saudi government.^ Doctor, Vein Surgery, Hospital Franco Emirien, Dr. William Kalchoff Profile, Abu Dhabi, Dubai UAE .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 The border with Oman also remains officially unsettled, but the two governments agreed to delineate the border in May 1999.[26]
Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan

Sheikh Zayed and the union

.In the early 1960s, oil was discovered in Abu Dhabi, an event that led to quick unification calls made by UAE sheikdoms.^ Doctor, Vein Surgery, Hospital Franco Emirien, Dr. William Kalchoff Profile, Abu Dhabi, Dubai UAE .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 .Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan became ruler of Abu Dhabi in 1966 and the British started losing their oil investments and contracts to U.S. oil companies.^ Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 [27] The British had earlier started a development office that helped in some small developments in the emirates. The sheikhs of the emirates then decided to form a council to coordinate matters between them and took over the development office. They formed the Trucial States Council,[28] and appointed Adi Bitar, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum's legal advisor, as Secretary General and Legal Advisor to the Council. .The council was terminated once the United Arab Emirates was formed.^ United Arab Emirates .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 [29]
In 1968, the United Kingdom announced its decision, reaffirmed in March 1971, to end the treaty relationships with the seven Trucial Sheikhdoms which had been, together with Bahrain and Qatar, under British protection. The nine attempted to form a union of Arab emirates, but by mid-1971 they were still unable to agree on terms of union, even though the British treaty relationship was to expire in December of that year.[30]
Bahrain became independent in August, and Qatar in September 1971. When the British-Trucial Sheikhdoms treaty expired on December 1, 1971, they became fully independent.[31] .The rulers of Abu Dhabi and Dubai decided to form a union between their two emirates independently, prepare a constitution, then call the rulers of the other five emirates to a meeting and offer them the opportunity to join.^ Doctor, Vein Surgery, Hospital Franco Emirien, Dr. William Kalchoff Profile, Abu Dhabi, Dubai UAE .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 .It was also agreed between the two that the constitution be written by December 2, 1971.[32] On that date, at the Dubai Guesthouse Palace, four other emirates agreed to enter into a union called the United Arab Emirates.^ United Arab Emirates .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 Ras al-Khaimah joined later, in early 1972.[33][34]

Recent history

After the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States the UAE was identified as a major financial center used by Al-Qaeda in transferring money to the hijackers (two of the 9/11 hijackers, Marwan al-Shehhi and Fayez Ahmed Bannihammad, who crashed United Flight 175 into the South Tower of the World Trade Center, were UAE citizens). The nation immediately cooperated with the U.S, freezing accounts tied to suspected terrorists and strongly clamping down on money laundering.
.The UAE supports military operations from the United States and other Coalition nations that are engaged in the war against the Taliban in Afghanistan (2001) and Saddam Hussein in Iraq (2003) as well as operations supporting the Global War on Terrorism for the Horn of Africa at Al Dhafra Air Base located outside of Abu Dhabi.^ Doctor, Vein Surgery, Hospital Franco Emirien, Dr. William Kalchoff Profile, Abu Dhabi, Dubai UAE .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 ^ Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 The air base also supported Allied operations during the 1991 Persian Gulf War and Operation Northern Watch. The country had already signed a military defense agreement with the U.S. in 1994 and one with France in 1995.
On 2 November 2004, the UAE's first president, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, died. His eldest son, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, succeeded as ruler of Abu Dhabi. In accordance with the constitution, the UAE's Supreme Council of Rulers elected Khalifa as president. Sheikh Mohammad bin Zayed Al Nahyan succeeded Khalifa as Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.[35] .In January 2006, Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the prime minister of the UAE and the ruler of Dubai, died, and Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum assumed both roles.^ General Practitioner, Surgeon, Al Soor Clinic, Dr. A Syed Ghiyasudeen Profile, Deira, Dubai UAE .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 ^ Consultant Obstetrics, Gynecology and Assisted Reproduction, Dubai Gynecology and Fertility Center, Dr. Mohamed Elkalyoubi Profile, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai UAE .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

Geography

Main article: Geography of the United Arab Emirates
Geography of the UAE
Coastline 1,318 km
Bordering countries Saudi Arabia, and Oman
The landscape of Sir Bani Yas Island
.The United Arab Emirates is situated in Southwest Asia, bordering the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf, between Oman and Saudi Arabia; it is in a strategic location along southern approaches to the Strait of Hormuz, a vital transit point for world crude oil.^ United Arab Emirates .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 [36]
A view of the desert landscape on the outskirts of Dubai
The mountainous region in the north
The UAE lies between 22°50′ and 26° north latitude and between 51° and 56°25′ east longitude. It shares a 530-kilometer border with Saudi Arabia on the west, south, and southeast, and a 450-kilometer border with Oman on the southeast and northeast. The land border with Qatar in the Khawr al Udayd area is about nineteen kilometers in the northwest; however, it is a source of ongoing dispute.[37] The total area of the UAE is approximately 77,700 square kilometers. The country's exact size is unknown because of disputed claims to several islands in the Persian Gulf, because of the lack of precise information on the size of many of these islands, and because most of its land boundaries, especially with Saudi Arabia, remain undemarcated.[38] Additionally, island disputes with Iran and Qatar remain unresolved.[39]
.The largest emirate, Abu Dhabi, accounts for 87% of the UAE's total area (67,340 square kilometers).^ Doctor, Vein Surgery, Hospital Franco Emirien, Dr. William Kalchoff Profile, Abu Dhabi, Dubai UAE .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 The smallest emirate, Ajman, encompasses only 259 square kilometers (see figure).
The UAE coast stretches for more than 650 kilometers along the southern shore of the Persian Gulf. Most of the coast consists of salt pans that extend far inland. .The largest natural harbor is at Dubai, although other ports have been dredged at Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and elsewhere.^ Doctor, Vein Surgery, Hospital Franco Emirien, Dr. William Kalchoff Profile, Abu Dhabi, Dubai UAE .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 Numerous islands are found in the Persian Gulf, and the ownership of some of them has been the subject of international disputes with both Iran and Qatar. The smaller islands, as well as many coral reefs and shifting sandbars, are a menace to navigation. Strong tides and occasional windstorms further complicate ship movements near the shore. The UAE also has a stretch of the Al Bāţinah coast of the Gulf of Oman, although the Musandam Peninsula, the very tip of Arabia by the Strait of Hormuz is an enclave of Oman within the UAE.
South and west of Abu Dhabi, vast, rolling sand dunes merge into the Rub al-Khali (Empty Quarter) of Saudi Arabia. The desert area of Abu Dhabi includes two important oases with adequate underground water for permanent settlements and cultivation. The extensive Liwa Oasis is in the south near the undefined border with Saudi Arabia. About 100 kilometers to the northeast of Liwa is the Al-Buraimi oasis, which extends on both sides of the Abu Dhabi-Oman border.
Prior to withdrawing from the area in 1971, Britain delineated the internal borders among the seven emirates in order to preempt territorial disputes that might hamper formation of the federation. .In general, the rulers of the emirates accepted the British intervention, but in the case of boundary disputes between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and also between Dubai and Sharjah, conflicting claims were not resolved until after the UAE became independent.^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Abu Dhabi roads Tailgating has caused a high rate of fatal accidents on UAE roads, police said.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Doctor, Vein Surgery, Hospital Franco Emirien, Dr. William Kalchoff Profile, Abu Dhabi, Dubai UAE .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 The most complicated borders were in the Al-Hajar al-Gharbi Mountains, where five of the emirates contested jurisdiction over more than a dozen enclaves.

Flora and fauna

Acacia trees growing in desert subarbs near Fujairah
In the oasis grow date palms, acacia and eucalyptus trees. In the desert the flora is very sparse and consists of grasses and thornbushes. The indigenous fauna had come close to extinction because of intensive hunting, which has led to a conservation program on Bani Yas island initiated by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in the 1970s, resulting in the survival of, for example, Arabian oryx and leopards. Coastal fish consist mainly of mackerel, perch and tuna, as well as sharks and whales.

Climate

The climate of the U.A.E generally is hot and dry. The hottest months are July and August, when average maximum temperatures reach above 48° C (118° F) on the coastal plain. In the Al Hajar Mountains, temperatures are considerably cooler, a result of increased altitude.[40] Average minimum temperatures in January and February are between 10 and 14 °C (
Template:Convert/Dual/LoffAoffDxSoffT
  - Invalid output type {4}="def", in {{Convert|10|and|14|def|...}}. ).[41] During the late summer months, a humid southeastern wind known as Sharqi (i.e. "Easterner") makes the coastal region especially unpleasant. The average annual rainfall in the coastal area is fewer than 120 mm (5 in), but in some mountainous areas annual rainfall often reaches 350 mm (14 in). Rain in the coastal region falls in short, torrential bursts during the summer months, sometimes resulting in floods in ordinarily dry wadi beds.[42] The region is prone to occasional, violent dust storms, which can severely reduce visibility. The Jebel Jais mountain cluster in Ras al-Khaimah has experienced snow only twice since records began.[43]

Government and politics

Main article: Politics of the United Arab Emirates
See also: Military of the United Arab Emirates and Constitution of the United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates National Symbols of the UAE[44]
Flag Flag of United Arab Emirates
Anthem Ishy Bilady
Animal Arabian Horse
Bird Peregrine Falcon
Flower Tribulus Omanense
Tree Ghaf trees
Dairy Camel Milk
Beverage Arabic Coffee
Sport Camel racing
Dress Khandura

Government

Current President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan
.The politics of the United Arab Emirates take place in a framework of a federal, presidential, elective monarchy.^ United Arab Emirates .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 .The UAE is federation of seven absolute monarchies: the emirates of Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Fujairah, Sharjah, Dubai, Ras al-Khaimah and Umm al-Qaiwain.^ Doctor, Vein Surgery, Hospital Franco Emirien, Dr. William Kalchoff Profile, Abu Dhabi, Dubai UAE .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 ^ General Practitioner, Surgeon, Al Soor Clinic, Dr. A Syed Ghiyasudeen Profile, Deira, Dubai UAE .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 .The President of the United Arab Emirates is its head of state, and the Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates is its head of government,[45] including foreign affairs, security and defense, nationality and immigration issues, education, public health, currency, postal, telephone and other communications services, air traffic control, licensing of aircraft, labor relations, banking, delimitation of territorial waters and extradition of criminals.^ United Arab Emirates .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 All responsibilities not granted to the national government are reserved to the emirates.
The UAE government comprises three branches: the executive, legislature, and judiciary. The executive branch consists of the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, Federal Supreme Council, and a Council of Ministers (the cabinet). The Federal Supreme Council is composed of the emirs of the seven emirates. It elects the president, vice president, members of the Council of Ministers, and judges of the Federal Supreme Court. The Supreme Council also formulates government policy, proposes and ratifies national laws, and ratifies treaties.
Although elected by the Supreme Council, the president and prime minister are essentially hereditary. .The emir of Abu Dhabi holds the presidency, and the emir of Dubai is prime minister.^ Cassation Court overturns acquittal of ex-minister and two managers The Dubai Cassation Court overturned the Appeals Court judgment to acquit the three and decided that it will hold a retrial on February 8.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Doctor, Vein Surgery, Hospital Franco Emirien, Dr. William Kalchoff Profile, Abu Dhabi, Dubai UAE .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 All but one prime minister served concurrently as vice president. The political influences and financial obligations of the emirates are reflected by their respective positions in the federal government. While each emirate still retains autonomy over its own territory, a percentage of its revenue is allocated to the UAE’s central budget.[46]
Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was the UAE's president from the nation's founding until his death on November 2, 2004. On the following day the Federal Supreme Council elected his son, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to the post. Abu Dhabi's crown prince, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is the heir apparent.[47]
The legislature is the Federal National Council, which consists of 40 members drawn from all the emirates. Half are appointed by the rulers of the constituent emirates, and the other half are indirectly elected to serve two-year terms. The first indirect elections took place in 2006, and the goal is a wholly elected council. The council carries out the country’s main consultative duties and has both a legislative and supervisory role provided by the constitution.[48] The council scrutinizes and amends proposed legislation, but cannot prevent it from becoming law.
A constitutionally independent judiciary includes the Federal Supreme Court.[49] .However, Dubai and Ras al-Khaimah do not belong to the national judiciary.^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Two get year in prison in Ras Al Khaimah for attempted rape Men attempted to rape two Filipinas in a vehicle .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Ras Al Khaimah .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 All emirates have their own secular and Islamic law for civil, criminal, and high courts.[50]

Law

Main article: Crime in the United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates

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When contrasted with other Arab states, such as Saudi Arabia for instance, the UAE has comparatively very liberal laws. The country has a civil law jurisdiction. However, Shari'a or Islamic law is applied to aspects of family law, inheritance and certain criminal acts. .Women can drive in the UAE and there is a strong emphasis in equality and human rights brought by the UAE's National Human Rights Committee.^ UAE editors back emiratisation of media Suggest setting up of national committee and taking rapid steps in training and qualification .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ UAE working to boost women's role Specialised committee reviews report on country's efforts .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]
.A federal court system applies to all emirates except Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, which are not fully integrated into the federal judicial system.^ Emirates NBD discontinues Standard & Poor's services All assets, liabilities and operations of Emirates Bank International and National Bank of Dubai have been assumed by Emirates NBD PJSC .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Two get year in prison in Ras Al Khaimah for attempted rape Men attempted to rape two Filipinas in a vehicle .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 All emirates have secular courts to rule about criminal, civil, and commercial matters, and Islamic courts to review family and religious disputes.
The country has undergone a period of liberalization and modernisation during the reign of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The laws of the UAE tolerate alcohol to a certain extent. However, public bars and nightclubs in the UAE operate mainly in hotels and clubs, much like in Qatar, although some do operate independently.
In the UAE the establishment of the Civil and Criminal Courts resulted in diminishing the role of the Sharia Courts. Nevertheless, the competence of the Sharia Courts in some emirates, particularly Abu Dhabi, was substantially expanded later on to include, in addition to matters of personal status, all types of civil and commercial disputes as well as serious criminal offences. Therefore, in addition to the Civil Courts, each of the seven emirates maintains a parallel system of Sharia Courts which are organised and supervised locally.
In common with other Arab states of the Persian Gulf, sponsorship laws exist in the UAE. These laws have been widely described as akin to modern-day slavery.[51] .The sponsorship system (Kafeel or Kafala) exists throughout the GCC and means that a worker (not a tourist) may not enter the country without having a kafeel, cannot leave without the kafeel's permission (an Exit Permit must first be awarded by the sponsor, or kafeel), and the sponsor has the right to ban a former employee who has quit the job from entering the UAE for 2–5 years after his first departure.^ Blind, jobless father-of-four stuck after bank gets travel ban imposed The Sri Lankan, who had been working in the UAE for five years, lost his sight six months ago.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 .Many sponsors do not allow the transfer of one employee to another sponsor.^ In Theory: Many hidden agendas behind oil reserve data The truth remains ambiguous to one party and crystal clear to another .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]
Civil cases may also be tried under Sharia courts with one exception: Shi'ite Muslims may try such cases in their own courts. Other civil proceedings include those involving claims against the government and enforcement of foreign judgments

Human rights and social development

Main article: Human rights in the United Arab Emirates
See also: LGBT rights in United Arab Emirates
.Human rights are legally protected by the Constitution of the United Arab Emirates, which confers equality, liberty, rule of law, presumption of innocence in legal procedures, inviolability of the home, freedom of movement, freedom of opinion and speech, freedom of communication, freedom of religion, freedom of council and association, freedom of occupation, freedom to be elected to office and others onto all citizens, within the limit of the law.^ United Arab Emirates .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 [52] .The UAE is held to be one of the most liberal countries in the Middle East, particularly if compared to its neighbors, Saudi Arabia and Iran[citation needed].^ It is bordered by Oman to the east and Saudi Arabia to the west and south.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]
Because of the rapid development of the UAE from a traditional, homogeneous society in the mid-20th century to a modern, multicultural one at the beginning of the 21st century, the concurrent development of legal provisions and the practical enforcement of existing laws has been challenging and, in consequence, problems exist mainly in regard to human rights of non-citizens, who make up around 80% of the population. Main issues include companies' and employers' non-compliance with labor laws.
Many expatriate workers, mostly of South Asian origin, have after their arrival in the UAE been turned into debt-ridden de facto indentured servants.[53] Confiscation of passports, although illegal, occurs on a large scale, primarily of unskilled or semi-skilled employees.[54]
Many workers come via contract companies. A typical worker from India might pay $1,300 as an initial payment to an agent which has to be returned by the wages earned. The workers earn about $200 per month (about $1.20 per hour) which includes lodging and travel but the worker has to pay for food, health insurance etc. A worker working directly for a end company would typically make around $280 with added benefits of health insurance and food, and better living quarters.
The UAE's system of employment for non-citizens ties an employee to the employer and prevents him or her from seeking alternative employment without the expressed approval of the original employer. Also, non-payment of wages, cramped and unsanitary living conditions and poor safety practices are widespread and have been the subject of foreign media attention.
The issue of sexual abuse among female domestic servants is an area of concern, particularly given that domestic servants are not covered by the UAE Labor Law of 1980 or the Draft Labor Law of 2007.[55]
Worker protests have been cracked down on.[56] Until today, the government has not allowed for trade unions to form despite having promised to do so since 2004.[57]
As Sharia prohibits sodomy, homosexual relationships are not commonly disclosed and homosexual behavior in public may result in imprisonment or even the death penalty, whereas foreigners generally receive deportation.[58][59] Prospective foreign employees infected with Hepatitis, Tuberculosis, or HIV will not be given work visas and have to leave the country.[60] There is, however, no screening of tourists.
The UAE authorities on the federal and local level have instituted a number of mechanisms and policies to improve the protection of human rights. For example, in 2004 the Dubai police opened designated departments in all emirate police stations that are mandated to protect the human rights of both victims and perpetrators of crime.[61]
The "UAE National Human Rights Report", prepared by a committee comprising representatives from various ministries and government institutions, with the participation of representatives from civil society and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and presented to the UN Human Rights Council on 4 December 2008 outlines efforts in the field of human rights observance and listed challenges facing the country, such as:
  • Providing more mechanisms to protect human rights, keeping up with national and international developments, and updating laws and systems
  • Meeting the state's expectations with regards to building national capabilities and deepening efforts for education on human rights and basic freedoms through a national plan
  • Striving to regulate the relationship between employers and workers in framework that preserves dignity and rights, and is in harmony with international standards, especially with regards to domestic help
  • Increasing the empowerment of women's role in society, increasing opportunities for involvement in a number of fields based on their skills and abilities
  • Working to confront human trafficking crimes by reviewing the best international practices in the field, working to update and improve the state's legislature in accordance with international standards, working to establish institutions and agencies to confront human trafficking crimes, and working to support the foundations of international cooperation with international organizations and institutions.
The UAE government is currently studying the establishment of a national human rights commission.[62]
Torture Controversy: Sheik Issa bin Zayed Al Nayhan, the brother of the present ruler of Abu Dhabi, was recently accused of torturing a business partner after a videotape clearly showed him participating in a 3-hour long torture session in the desert. In a strange verdict, Abu Dhabi courts cleared him and instead convicted his accusers of drug charges. This judgement reveals a weird and worrying conception of justice in Abu Dhabi.[63]

Foreign policy and military

Main articles: Foreign relations of the United Arab Emirates and Military of the United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates Air Force F-16 Block 60 taking off from the Lockheed Martin plant in Fort Worth, Texas
The UAE’s liberal climate towards foreign cooperation, investment and modernization has prompted extensive diplomatic and commercial relations with other countries. It plays a significant role in OPEC and the UN, and is one of the founding members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
Regionally, the UAE has a very close relationship with other GCC members as well as most of the Arab countries. The Emirates have long maintained close relations with Egypt and remain the highest investor in the country from among the rest of the Arab world.[64] Pakistan has also been a major recipient of economic aid and relations have been extremely close since the founding of the federation. Pakistan had been first to formally recognize the UAE upon its formation and continues to be one of its major economic and trading partners with about 400,000 expatriates receiving employment in the UAE.[65][66] India’s large expat community in the UAE also has over the centuries evolved into current close political, economic and cultural ties. The largest demographic presence in the Emirates is Indian.[67] Like most countries in the region, the UAE and Iran dispute rights to a number of islands in the Persian Gulf but this has not significantly impacted relations because of the large Iranian community presence and strong economic ties.[68]
Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan with former Russian president Vladimir Putin
Following the 1990 Iraq invasion of Kuwait, the UAE has maintained extensive relations with its allies for security and cooperation towards increasing interoperability of its defense forces and for liberating Kuwait. France and the USA have played the most strategically significant roles with defense cooperation agreements and military material provision.[69] Most recently, these relations culminated in a joint nuclear deal for the US to supply the UAE with nuclear technology, expertise and fuel. Commercially, the UK and Germany are the UAE’s largest export markets and bilateral relations have long been close as a large number of their nationals reside in the UAE.[70] [71]
Diplomatic relations between UAE and Japan were established as early as UAE's independence in December 1971.[72] The two countries had always enjoyed friendly ties and trade between each other. Exports from the UAE to Japan include crude oil and natural gas and imports from Japan to UAE include cars and electric items.[72]

Foreign aid

The UAE has continuously been a major contributor of emergency relief to regions affected by conflict and natural disasters in the developing world.[68] The main UAE governmental agency for foreign aid is the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) which was established in 1971. Since its establishment, the ADFD has provided over Dh12.6 billion (US$3.45 billion) in soft loans and grants to countries mainly in Africa.[73] Since 1971, these have accounted for a further Dh10 billion (US$2.72 billion), bringing the total amount of the loans, grants and investments provided by the fund or the Abu Dhabi government, and managed by the fund, to around Dh24 billion (US$6.54 billion), covering 258 different projects in a total of 52 countries.[74]
In November 2008, the Abu Dhabi Fund announced a long term loan of around US$278 million for rehabilitation of agricultural land in the state of Uzbekistan.[75] Between 1994 to mid-2008, for example, around Dh15.4 billion (US$4.2 billion) has been provided for the Palestinians, including, most recently, US$300 million pledged at a donor conference in Paris and an annual commitment of US$43 million to support the Palestine National Authority.[76]
The UAE has also used the Red Crescent authority and charities such as Dubai Cares and Noor Dubai to donate aid to foreign countries as well.

Political divisions

Main article: Emirates of the United Arab Emirates
See also: List of cities in the United Arab Emirates and Category:Towns and villages in the United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates is divided into seven emirates, with Abu Dhabi the largest of all seven emirates with an area of 67,340 square kilometers, equivalent to 86.7 per cent of the country’s total area, excluding the islands. It has a coastline extending for more than 400 kilometers and is divided for administrative purposes into three major regions. The Emirate of Dubai extends along the Persian Gulf coast of the UAE for approximately 72 kilometers. Dubai has an area of 3,885 square kilometers, which is equivalent to 5 per cent of the country’s total area, excluding the islands. The Emirate of Sharjah extends along approximately 16 kilometers of the UAE’s Persian Gulf coastline and for more than 80 kilometers into the interior. The northern emirates which include Fujairah, Ajman, Ras al-Khaimah, and Umm al-Qaiwain all have a total area of 3,881 square kilometers. There are two areas under joint control. One is jointly controlled by Oman and Ajman, the other by Fujairah and Sharjah.
There is an Omani enclave surrounded by UAE territory, known as Wadi Madha. It is located halfway between the Musandam peninsula and the rest of Oman in the Emirate of Sharjah. It covers approximately 75 square kilometres (29 sq mi) and the boundary was settled in 1589. The north-east corner of Madha is closest to the Khor Fakkan-Fujairah road, barely 10 metres (33 ft) away. Within the enclave is a UAE exclave called Nahwa, also belonging to the Emirate of Sharjah (formerly known as Bhubi Dhubhi). It is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) on a dirt track west of the town of New Madha. It consists of about forty houses with its own clinic and telephone exchange.
Ras Al Khaimah Fujairah Fujairah Ras al-Khaimah Umm al-Quwain Ajman Sharjah Dubai Dubai Sharjah Sharjah Abu Dhabi UAE en-map.png
About this image

Demographics

Main article: Demographics of the United Arab Emirates
Ethnicity (1982)[77]
South Asian 50.0%
Emirati 19.0%
Other Arabs & Persians 23.0%
Others (including Europeans & East Asians) 8.0%
Year Population [78]
19631 95,000 [79]
1968 180,226 [80]
1975 557,887
1980 1,042,099
1985 1,379,303
1995 2,411,041
1999 2,938,000
2003 4,041,000
2009 5,671,112
1 The United Arab Emirates first conducted a census in 1968. All population figures in this table prior to 1968 are estimates obtained from various sources.
In 2009, the UAE's population was estimated at 6 million,[3] of which just under 20% were UAE nationals or Emiratis,[81] while the majority of the population were expatriates.[82] The country's net migration rate stands at 22.98, the world's highest.[83]
23% of the population are non-Emirati Arabs and Persians and the majority of the population, about 50%, is from South Asia.[84] Approximately 1.75 million Indian nationals reside in the UAE, making them the single largest expatriate community in the country. Other major groups include 1.25 million Pakistanis, and 500,000 Bangladeshis.[85] Those from other parts of Asia (including the Philippines, Iran or China) comprised up to 1 million people, while those from western states (Europeans or Americans) numbered about 500,000 people. The rest of the population were from other Arab states.[3] As UAE nationals form a minority of those who reside in the country, it is one of the most diverse regions in the Middle East.[86] Thousands of Palestinians, who came as either political refugees or temporary employment, also live in the United Arab Emirates. There is also a sizable population of people from Egypt, Somalia and Sudan who migrated to the UAE before its formation. The UAE has also attracted a small number of expatriates from developed countries in Europe, North America, Asia, and Oceania.[87]
The population of the UAE has a skewed sex distribution consisting of more than twice as many males as females. The 15–65 age group has a male/female sex ratio of 2.743. The UAE's gender imbalance is only surpassed by other Arab countries in the Persian Gulf region.[88]
Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi, is one of the largest mosques in the world.
The most populated city is Dubai, with approximately 1.6 million people. Other major cities include Abu Dhabi, Al-Ain, Sharjah, and Fujairah. About 88% of the population of the United Arab Emirates is urban.[89] The remaining inhabitants live in tiny towns scattered throughout the country or in one of the many desert oilfield camps in the nation.
The average life expectancy is 75 years, higher than any other Arab country.[90]
Islam is largest and the official state religion of the UAE, though the government follows a policy of tolerance towards other religions and rarely interferes in the activities of non-Muslims.[91] However, it is illegal in the UAE to spread the ideas of any religion apart from Islam through any form of media as it is a form of proselytizing. There are approximately 31 churches throughout the country and one Hindu temple in the region of Bur Dubai.[92] Based on the Ministry of Economy census in 2005, 76% of the total population was Muslim, 9% Christian, and 15% other (mainly Hindu and Buddhist).[91] Non-Islamic religions are mainly followed by foreigners or expatriates. As majority of the population are non-citizens, of the citizens 85% are Sunni Muslim while 15% are Shi'a Muslims.[91]
Leading population centers
Rank Core city Emirate Population Metro area rank
Dubai
Dubai
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
1 Dubai Dubai 1,770,533 1
2 Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi 896,751 2
3 Sharjah Sharjah 845,617 3
4 Al Ain Abu Dhabi 651,904 2
5 Ajman Ajman 372,923 5
6 Ras Al Khaimah Ras al Khaimah 171,903 6
7 Fujairah Fujairah 107,940 7
8 Um Al Quwain Um Al Quwain 69,936 8
9 Khor Fakkan Sharjah 49 635 7
10 Dibba Fujairah 30,000 7
2008 Calculation

Education

Main article: Education in the United Arab Emirates
Year Literacy Rate[93]
1989 53.5%
2000 79%
2003 77.9%
1 The illiteracy rate is mainly in the adult population, as a large majority of the population is foreign labourers.
The education system through secondary level is monitored by the Ministry of Education. It consists of primary schools, middle schools and high schools. The public schools are government-funded and the curriculum is created to match the United Arab Emirates development's goals and values. The medium of instruction in the public school is Arabic with emphasis on English as a second language. There are also many private schools which are internationally accredited. Public schools in the country are free for citizens of the UAE, while the fees for private schools vary.[95]
The American University of Sharjah
The higher education system is monitored by the Ministry of Higher Education. The ministry also is responsible for admitting students to its undergraduate institutions.[96]
A recent survey showed that the illiteracy rate is on the decline in the UAE, and is now in the region of 7 per cent. This is mainly due to programmes that combat illiteracy amongst the adult population. Currently there are thousands of nationals pursuing formal learning at 86 adult education centres spread across the country.[97]
The Government has launched many programs and initiatives to improve the quality of education at schools across the country.
The UAE has shown a strong interest in improving education and research. Enterprises include the establishment of the CERT Research Centers and the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology and institute for enterprise development.[98]

Health

Main article: Health in the United Arab Emirates
Dubai Healthcare City is a specifically designated city for clinical and wellness services, medical education and research launched by the government to attract global companies to the city
Standards of healthcare are considered to be generally high in the United Arab Emirates, resulting from increased government spending during strong economic years. According to the UAE government, total expenditures on healthcare from 1996 to 2003 were US$436 million. According to the World Health Organization, in 2006 total expenditures on health care constituted 2.6 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), and the per capita expenditure for health care was US$673. General government expenditure on health as percentage of total government expenditure is 8.7% and Health care currently is free only for UAE citizens. Hospital beds (per 10 000 population) was 18 in 2005. The number of doctors per 100,000 (annual average, 1990–2005) was 17 and dentistry personnel (per 100 000 population) was 30 in 2002. The pharmaceutical personnel (per 100 000 population) was 40.
The life expectancy at birth in the UAE is at 78.5 years.[90] According to World Health Organisation (WHO) statistics, the UAE is ranked forty-fourth in the world in terms of health care.
In February 2008, the Ministry of Health unveiled a five-year health strategy for the public health sector in the northern emirates, which fall under its purview and which, unlike Abu Dhabi and Dubai, do not have separate healthcare authorities. The strategy focuses on unifying healthcare policy and improving access to healthcare services at reasonable cost, at the same time reducing dependence on overseas treatment. The ministry plans to add three hospitals to the current 14, and 29 primary healthcare centres to the current 86. Nine were scheduled to open in 2008.[99]
The introduction of mandatory health insurance in Abu Dhabi for expatriates and their dependents was a major driver in reform of healthcare policy. Abu Dhabi nationals were brought under the scheme from 1 June 2008 and Dubai followed for its government employees. Eventually, under federal law, every Emirati and expatriate in the country will be covered by compulsory health insurance under a unified mandatory scheme.[100] Recently the country has been benefiting from medical tourists from all over the GCC. The UAE currently attracts medical tourists seeking plastic surgery and advanced procedures, cardiac and spinal surgery, and dental treatment, as health services have higher standards than other Gulf countries.[101]
Cardiovascular disease is the principal cause of death in the UAE, constituting 28 percent of total deaths; other major causes are accidents and injuries, malignancies, and congenital anomalies.[102] Diabetes and Cancer are also the main causes of death in the country.

Economy

Main article: Economy of the United Arab Emirates
Economic indicators
Unemployment 4%May 2009 [note 1]
GDP growth - 4.0%2009 [103]
CPI inflation 1.9%April 2008 – April 2009 [104]
National debt $142 billionJune 18, 2009 [105]
The Atlantis resort at Palm Jumeirah in Dubai. Dubai has one of the largest tourism and real estate based economies in the Middle East.
The main commercial area of Abu Dhabi with the headquarters of ADMA-OPCO at the center.
In 2009, UAE's GDP, as measured by purchasing power parity, stood at US$200.4 billion.[106] The GDP per capita is currently the 14th in the world and 3rd in the Middle East, after Qatar and Kuwait as measured by the CIA World Factbook, or the 17th in the world as measured by the International Monetary Fund.
UAE's economy, particularly that of Dubai, was badly hit by the financial crisis of 2007–2010.[107] In 2009, the country's economy shrank by 4.00 percent.[103]
Petroleum and natural gas exports play an important role in the economy, especially in Abu Dhabi. A massive construction boom, an expanding manufacturing base, and a thriving services sector are helping the UAE diversify its economy. Nationwide, there is currently $350 billion worth of active construction projects.[108] Such projects include the Burj Khalifa, which is the world's tallest building, Dubai World Central International Airport which, when completed, will be the most expensive airport ever built, and the three Palm Islands, the largest artificial islands in the world. Other projects include the Dubai Mall which is the world's largest shopping mall, and a man-made archipelago called The World which seeks to increase Dubai's rapidly growing tourism industry. Also in the entertainment sector is the construction of Dubailand, which is expected to be twice the size of Disney World, and of Dubai Sports City which will not only provide homes for local sports teams but may be part of future Olympic bids.
Major increases in imports occurred in manufactured goods, machinery, and transportation equipment, which together accounted for 80% of total imports. Another important foreign exchange earner, the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority--which controls the investments of Abu Dhabi, the wealthiest emirate—manages an estimated $360 billion in overseas investments & an estimated $900 billion in assets.
More than 200 factories operate at the Jebel Ali complex in Dubai, which includes a deep-water port and a free trade zone for manufacturing and distribution in which all goods for re-export or transshipment enjoy a 100% duty exemption. A major power plant with associated water desalination units, an aluminium smelter, and a steel fabrication unit are prominent facilities in the complex. The complex is currently undergoing expansion, with sections of land set aside for different sectors of industry. A large international passenger and cargo airport, Dubai World Central International Airport, with associated logistics, manufacturing and hospitality industries, is also planned here.
Emirati exports in 2006
Except in the free trade zones, the UAE requires at least 51% local citizen ownership in all businesses operating in the country as part of its attempt to place Emiratis into leadership positions. However, this law is under review and the majority ownership clause will very likely be scrapped in order to bring the country into line with World Trade Organisation regulations.
As a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the UAE participates in the wide range of GCC activities that focus on economic issues. These include regular consultations and development of common policies covering trade, investment, banking and finance, transportation, telecommunications, and other technical areas, including protection of intellectual property rights.
The currency of the United Arab Emirates is the Emirati Dirham.

Infrastructure

Main articles: Transport in the United Arab Emirates and Developments in Dubai
Image of Dubai's roads
A highway interchange in Dubai
Jebel Ali Port in Dubai
Jebel Ali Port is the largest port in the Middle East, and the seventh busiest in the world
Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport
Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport is the single largest building in the world by floor space[109] and has increased the total capacity of the airport to 60 million passengers per year
Dubai Metro on its opening day
The Red Line on the Dubai Metro. The Dubai Metro is the first urban train network in the Arabian Peninsula.[110]
Etisalat Tower in Dubai.
Etisalat held a virtual monopoly over telecommunications in the country prior to 2006.[111] Based in Abu Dhabi, Etisalat is the 14th largest mobile network operator in the world, with a total customer base of 94 million.[112]
The UAE has been spending billions of dollars on infrastructure and is the biggest projects market in the region, accounting for 37 percent of total project value within the construction, oil and gas, petrochemicals, power and water and waste sectors. Many huge investments have been poured into real estate, tourism and leisure. These developments are particularly evident in the larger emirates of Abu Dhabi and Dubai. In the former, Masdar City and Saadiyat Island highlighte the status as an emerging market. Dubai World Central, a 140-square kilometre multi-phase development under construction near Jebel Ali, will create 900,000 jobs, and will include Al Maktoum International Airport, which will be the largest airport in the world by 2020. Property developer Emaar’s Burj Khalifa is a Dh3.67 billion (US$1billion) tower that is the world's tallest skyscraper.
Governments in the northern emirates are rapidly following suit, providing major incentives for developers of residential and commercial property.[113] In addition, UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has allocated Dh16 billion (US$4.4 billion) for infrastructure projects in the northern emirates. The allocation will be used to fund the construction of road networks, new housing communities, drainage networks and other projects, providing integrated solutions to some infrastructure deficits in these areas.[114]
The United Arab Emirates has an extensive road network that connects all major cities and towns. Roads in the western and southern regions are still relatively undeveloped. Those are highly dangerous roads passing through desert regions and many are still unsealed, gravel roads. This has resulted in the continued use of airplanes as the main or alternative mode of transportation for the residents.[115]
There are seaports throughout the country. The major ports are Port Jebel Ali, Port Rashid, Port Khalid, Port Saeed, Port Khor Fakkan, and Port Zayed.[116]
The UAE contains a number of significant airports. Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the main airport of the country. In 2008, the airport was the 20th busiest airport in the world by passenger traffic and 11th busiest by cargo traffic. The airport also was the 6th busiest airport in the world by international passenger traffic.[117] Other important airports include Abu Dhabi International Airport, Sharjah International Airport, and Al-Ain International Airport. There are also airports in smaller towns, as well as small domestic airstrips in the rural Western region. There are daily flight services between West and East UAE, which is the only convenient option for passengers travelling between the two parts of the country to places such as Sir Bani Yas.[118] The UAE is home to the largest airline in the Middle East, Emirates Airline. It has Dubai as its hub, and flies to over 100 destinations across six continents. The airline was the eighth-largest airline in the world in terms of international passengers carried,[119] and fifth-largest[120] in the world in terms of scheduled international passenger-kilometres flown in 2008. Etihad Airways, from Abu Dhabi, is also growing, with over 100 aircraft on order.
The Dh15.5 billion (US$4.2 billion) Dubai Metro project includes a 52-kilometre Red Line viaduct, which stretches the length of Sheikh Zayed Road between Al Rashidiya and Jebel Ali and was opened in September 2009 after round-the-clock work for three years. The Red Line when fully complete will carry an estimated 27,000 passengers per hour in each direction on 42 trains.[121] Work also on the Green Line, which will link Al Qusais to Dubai Healthcare City, began in 2006 and is scheduled for completion in late 2010.[122] In Abu Dhabi plans are underway for all a metro system and also a country-wide national railway, which will connect all the major cities and is later to connect to the GCC wide network.[123] The cost for the railway will be between Dh25bn and Dh30bn, and will be a total length of 1,100 kilometres, connecting Ghuwaifat, bordering the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in the west and the border with the Sultanate of Oman in the east.[124]
The Federal Electricity and Water Authority (FEWA) is the body responsible for overseeing federal utilities, whilst authorities in individual emirates, including Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority (ADWEA), Dubai Water and Electricity Authority (DEWA) and Sharjah Water and Electricity Authority (SEWA), oversee power and water generation in their individual emirates. The UAE plans to build 68 rechargeable dams in the coming five years to augment the 114 dams in existence, all but two of which are rechargeable, to help with providing for the growing population.
The UAE is also planning develop a peaceful nuclear energy programme to generate electricity. So far, the UAE has signed peaceful nuclear agreements with France, United States, and South Korea, and a MOU with the United Kingdom.[125]
The UAE is presently serviced by two telecommunications operators, Etisalat and du. Etisalat operated a monopoly until du launched mobile services in February 2007.[111] However, Etisalat, with over 80 per cent of the market, remains the UAE's biggest telecom provider and is expanding dramatically internationally and is now the sixteenth largest telecommunications firm in the world.[126] Du is targeting a 30 per cent market share by 2010. Between 2002 and 2007, the number of mobile phone subscribers in the UAE grew by an annual average of 25.6 per cent, almost four times its population growth. Forecasts indicate that the UAE mobile market will increase from 7.7 million subscribers in 2007 to 9.2 million in 2008 and to 11.9 million by 2012.[127]
Burj Khalifa
Current UAE internet penetration figures assume 2.4 users per subscription. TRA projections indicate that over the next few years growth in both users and subscriptions will be coupled with a fall in the number of users per subscription: the number of subscribers are expected to increase from 0.904 million in 2007 to 1.15 million in 2008, 1.44 million in 2009 and 2.66 million in 2012.[128] Internet use is extensive; by 2007 there were 1.7 million users.[129] According to Reporters Without Borders, the authorities filter websites for religious, political and sexual content.[130]
The highest tower ever built, the Burj Khalifa at 828 m, has been constructed in Dubai. The construction began on 21 September 2004. The building officially opened on 4 January 2010. The total cost of the Burj Khalifa project was about US$1.5 billion.

Culture

Main article: Culture of the United Arab Emirates
Nuvola UAE flag.svg
Life in the UAE
Cuisine
Culture
Communications
Cinema
Demography
Education
Geography
Human rights
Military
Media
Politics
Music
Transportation
Religion
Sport
Tourism
edit box
A traditional souk in Deira, Dubai
The United Arab Emirates has a diverse and multicultural society.[131] The country's cultural imprint as a small, ethnically homogenous pearling community was changed with the arrival of other ethnic groups and nationals—first by the Iranians in the early 1900s, and later by Indians and Pakistanis in the 1960s. Dubai has been criticized for perpetuating a class-based society, where migrant workers are in the lower classes.[132] Despite the diversity of the population, only minor and infrequent episodes of ethnic tensions, primarily between expatriates, have been reported in the city. Major holidays in Dubai include Eid al Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, and National Day (2 December), which marks the formation of the United Arab Emirates.[133]
Emirati culture mainly revolves around the religion of Islam and traditional Arab, and Bedouin culture. Being a highly cosmopolitan society, the UAE has a diverse and vibrant culture. The influence of Islamic and Arab culture on its architecture, music, attire, cuisine and lifestyle are very prominent as well. Five times every day, Muslims are called to prayer from the minarets of mosques which are scattered around the country.[134] The weekend begins on Friday, the holiest day for Muslims. Most Arab countries Muslim countries have a Friday–Saturday or Thursday–Friday weekend.[135]
This unique socioeconomic development in the Persian Gulf has meant that the UAE is relatively liberal. While Islam is the main religion, the UAE has been known for its tolerant practices. Christian churches can be found alongside mosques and this courtesy has seemingly been extended to Hinduism and Sikhism as there is a place tucked away inside a residential style building which houses a Hindu temple and a Sikh gurudwara. There is evidently no persecution of Hindus or Sikhs which is why it is home to several communities that have faced persecution elsewhere, whom are now contributing to the cosmopolitan atmosphere. There are a variety of Asian-influenced schools, cultural centers and restaurants. Increasing numbers of European centers, schools, and restaurants can also be seen in the UAE.

Dress and etiquette

The Islamic dress code is not compulsory, unlike in neighboring Saudi Arabia. Most Emirati males prefer to wear a kandura, an ankle-length white shirt woven from wool or cotton, and most Emirati women wear an abaya, a black over-garment covering most parts of the body.[136] This attire is particularly well-suited for the UAE's hot and dry climate. Western-style clothing is, however, dominant because of the large expatriate population, and this practice is beginning to grow in popularity among Emiratis.
Etiquette is an important aspect of UAE culture and tradition, to which visitors are expected to conform. Recently, many expatriates have disregarded the law and been arrested for indecent clothing, or lack thereof, at beaches.[137] Western-style dress is tolerated in appropriate places, such as bars or clubs, but the UAE has maintained a strict policy of protecting highly public spaces from cultural insensitivity. This is due, in large part, to the effects such practices may have on the social integration and participation of a largely conservative Emirati population.

Food

Main article: Arab cuisine
The traditional food of the Emirates has always been rice, fish, and meat. The people of the United Arab Emirates have adopted most of their foods from the surrounding countries including Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Oman.
Seafood has been the mainstay of the Emirati diet for centuries. Meat and rice are other staple foods; lamb and mutton are the more favored meats, then goat and finally beef.
Popular beverages are coffee and tea, which can be supplemented with cardamom, saffron, or mint to give them a distinct flavor.[138]
Muslims are prohibited from eating pork, so it is not included in local menus. Hotels frequently have pork substitutes such as beef sausages and veal rashers on their breakfast menus. If pork is available, it is clearly labelled as such.
Alcohol is generally only served in hotel restaurants and bars (but not in Sharjah). All nightclubs and golf clubs are permitted to sell alcohol. Specific supermarkets may sell alcohol and pork, but these products are sold in separate sections.[139]
Dishes forming part of the Emarati cuisine:[140]
  • Machboos
  • Harees
  • Lukaimat
  • Batheeth
  • Khamir
  • Al-Madrooba
  • Al-Saloona (Curry)
  • Fareed

Literature and poetry

The main themes in Emarati poetry for Arab Poets range from satire, chivalry, self-praise, patriotism, religion, family and love, and could range from descriptive to narrative.
The style and form of ancient poetry in the UAE was strongly influenced by the 8th-century Persian Gulf Arab scholar Al Khalil bin Ahmed, who followed sixteen metres. This form underwent slight modification (Al Muwashahat) during the period of Islamic civilization in Andalucia (Spain).
The earliest known poet in the UAE is Ibn Majid, who was born between 1432 and 1437 in Ras Al-Khaimah. Coming from a family of successful sailors, Ibn Majid's oeuvre has a total of 40 surviving compositions, 39 of which are verses.
The greatest luminaries in the UAE literary realm during the 20th century, particularly for Classical Arabic poetry, were Mubarak Al Oqaili (1880–1954), Salem bin Ali al Owais (1887–1959) and Ahmed bin Sulayem (1905–1976). Three other poets from Sharjah, known as the Hirah group, also thrived during the 20th century including Khalfan Musabah (1923–1946), Sheikh Saqr Al Qasimi (1925–1993), an ex-ruler of Sharjah, and Sultan bin Ali al Owais (1925–2000). The Hirah group’s works are observed to have been heavily influenced by the Apollo and romantic poets.[141]

Museums and art galleries

Louvre Abu Dhabi
Many emirates have established museums of regional repute, most famously Sharjah with its Heritage District containing 17 museums,[142] which in 1998 was the Cultural Capital of the Arab World.[143] Abu Dhabi's cultural foundation is also an important place for the presentation of indigenous and foreign art. In Dubai, the area of Al Quoz has attracted a number of art galleries.[144]
Abu Dhabi has embarked on the path to become an art center of international caliber, by creating a culture district on Saadiyat Island. There, six grand projects are planned: the Sheikh Zayed National Museum by Foster + Partners, the modern art museum Guggenheim Abu Dhabi to be built by Frank Gehry, the classical museum Louvre Abu Dhabi by Jean Nouvel, a maritime museum by Tadao Ando, a Performing Arts Center by Zaha Hadid, and a Biennale Park with 16 pavilions.[145]
Dubai also plans to build a Kunsthal museum and a district for galleries and artists.[146]

Music, dance and cinema

Main articles: Music of the United Arab Emirates and Cinema of the United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates is a part of the khaliji tradition, and is also known for Bedouin folk music. Liwa is a type of music and dance performed mainly in communities which contain descendants of East Africans.[147] During celebrations singing and dancing also took place and many of the songs and dances, handed down from generation to generation, have survived to the present time. Young girls would dance by swinging their long black hair and swaying their bodies in time to the strong beat of the music. Men would re-enact battles fought or successful hunting expeditions, often symbolically using sticks, swords or rifles. Recently Emirati music has ventured into Hip Hop with Desert Heat becoming the first Emirati Hip Hop Group in the UAE. Releasing a hip hop album "when The Desert Speaks". The Album is a fusion album of Arabian traditional music with modern Hip Hop Beats.
Bollywood movies from India are the most popular in the UAE followed by Hollywood movies and Malayalam movies from India. The UAE has an active music scene, with musicians Amr Diab, Diana Haddad, Tarkan, Aerosmith, Santana, Mark Knopfler, Christina Aguilera, Elton John, Pink, Shakira, Celine Dion, Coldplay, and Phil Collins and a slew of Bollywood stars having performed in the country. Kylie Minogue was paid 4.4 million dollars to perform at the opening of the Atlantis resort on November 20, 2008.[148] The Dubai Desert Rock Festival is also another major festival consisting of heavy metal and rock artists.[149]

Sports

Main article: Sport in the United Arab Emirates
Dubai Tennis Championships 2006
Football is the national sport of the United Arab Emirates. Emirati Soccer clubs Al-Ain, Al-Wasl, Al-Shabbab ACD, Al-Sharjah, Al-Wahda, and Al-Ahli are the most popular teams and enjoy the reputation of long-time regional champions.[150] The great rivalries keep the UAE energized as people fill the streets when their favorite team wins. The United Arab Emirates Football Association was first established in 1971 and since then has dedicated its time and effort to promoting the game, organizing youth programs and improving the abilities of not only its players, but of the officials and coaches involved with its regional teams. The UAE football team qualified for the World Cup in 1990—with Egypt it was the third consecutive World Cup with two Arab nations qualifying after Kuwait and Algeria in 1982 and Iraq and Algeria again in 1986.[151] The UAE also recently won the Gulf Cup Championship held in Abu Dhabi January 2007.[152]
Cricket is one of the most popular sports in the UAE, largely because of the expatriate population from the Indian subcontinent. The Sharjah Cricket Association Stadium in Sharjah has hosted 4 international test matches so far.[153] Sheikh Zayed Stadium and Al Jazira Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi also host international cricket matches. Dubai has two cricket stadiums (Dubai Cricket Ground No.1 and No.2) with a third, 'S3' currently under construction as part of Dubai Sports City. Dubai is also home to the International Cricket Council.[154] The United Arab Emirates national cricket team qualified for the 1996 Cricket World Cup and narrowly missed out on qualification for the 2007 Cricket World Cup.[155]
Other popular sports include camel racing, falconry, endurance riding, and tennis.[156]

International rankings

Organization Survey Ranking
Institute for Economics and Peace [5] Global Peace Index[157] 40 out of 144
United Nations Development Programme Human Development Index 35 out of 182
Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index 30 out of 180
World Economic Forum Global Competitiveness Report 23 out of 133

See also

United Arab Emirates portal

References

Notes

  1. ^ The unemployment rate may be much higher as many people have become unemployed due to the global economic crisis taking a heavy toll on property values, construction and employment.
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  141. ^ "Welcome to Abu Dhabi – Literature and Poetry". Visitabudhabi.ae. 2009-07-01. http://www.visitabudhabi.ae/en/what.to.do/art.and.culture/literature.and.poetry.aspx. Retrieved 2009-07-16. 
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Quotes

Up to date as of January 14, 2010

From Wikiquote

The sub-national divisions of the UAE are emirates.
.The United Arab Emirates is a country in western Asia.^ United Arab Emirates .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

Sourced

  • This country has gotten its wealth from the ground...It's a modern society that's using its wealth not only to educate its people, but to stay on the leading edge of technological change....I don't think most Americans understand the UAE. And I don't think most Americans understand that your education systems are modern and that you're thinking about the future in constructive ways.

See also

External links


Travel guide

Up to date as of January 14, 2010

From Wikitravel

Asia : Middle East : United Arab Emirates
noframe
Location
noframe
Flag
Image:Ae-flag.png
Quick Facts
Capital Abu Dhabi
Government Federation with specified powers delegated to the UAE federal government and other powers reserved to member emirates
Currency Emirati dirham (AED)
Area total: 82,880 km2
land: 82,880 km2
water: 0 km2
Population 2,563,212 (July 2006 est.)
Language Arabic (official), Persian, English, Hindi, Urdu
Religion Muslim 94% (Shi'a 16%), Christian, Hindu, and other 6%
Electricity 220/50Hz (UK plug)
Calling Code +971
Internet TLD .ae
Time Zone UTC+4
The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates on the eastern side of the Arabian peninsula, at the entrance to the Persian Gulf. .It has coastlines on the Persian Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf, with Saudi Arabia to the west and southwest, and Oman to the southeast and also on the eastern tip of the Musandam Peninsula as well as an Omani enclave within its borders.^ It is bordered by Oman to the east and Saudi Arabia to the west and south.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 It is a country rich in history and culture and an easy starting point for travels in the Middle East.

Understand

The United Arab Emirates is a modern and dynamic country. To some, it is an advanced and clean country, to others a touristy "Disneyland".
For most Western tourists, the UAE offers an environment that is extremely familiar. The malls are extraordinarily modern, filled with virtually any product available in the West (save sexually explicit material; movies are censored, as are, to some extent, magazines). .The less well known side of the UAE includes remote, magnificent desert dunes on the edge of the Empty Quarter and craggy, awe-inspiring wadis in the north-east bordering Oman.^ It is bordered by Oman to the east and Saudi Arabia to the west and south.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]
Alcohol is widely available at many restaurants and bars in Dubai and in the tourist hotels of every other emirate save Sharjah. There is a legal but roundly overlooked requirement to have a licence to buy liquor. The liquor license is proof that the bearer is a non-Muslim. A passport will not suffice. However, you can purchase liquor duty-free at the airport to bring into the UAE. Sharjah emirate is completely dry. A liquor licence is required in all other emirates and is available to residents at different rates, depending on their income, and for a flat fee in Dubai. The requirement is sometimes overlooked at certain stores.
The roads and other public facilities are modern if, at times, extremely crowded. Supermarkets offer a vast assortment of products from the U.S. and Europe, depending on the shop, along with local and regional items. Major international chains such as Ikea and Carrefour have a presence and fast-food chains (nearly all from the U.S.) such as McDonald's and KFC operate widely. On the other hand, there are still a few crowded traditional souks filled with products from around the world, rug stores. These can be hard to find for the average traveler, as the malls tend to gain an overwhelming amount of attention. (Please note that contrary to what is printed in guidebooks, the souks in Abu Dhabi were torn down in 2006 and no longer exist. The souks in Dubai are still wonderful to explore, though).

Culture

The Emirates is a federation of seven emirates, and as a result the rulers--or Sheikhs--of each emirate can radically affect the way of life in his respective Emirate. For example, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashed al-Maktoum of Dubai is very modern, so Dubai is forward-thinking and cosmopolitan. The ruling sheikhs of Ajman and Sharjah are more conservative, thus the rules there are more strict concerning religion, alcohol, drugs and general living conditions.

Politics

The United Arab Emirates is a federation of severn different emirates, each with its own king (or Sheikh). Each emirate retains considerable autonomy, most notably over oil revenues. In theory, the President and Prime Minister are elected by the Supreme Council, which is composed of the kings of each of the seven emirates. .However, in practice, the king of Abu Dhabi is always elected President while the king of Dubai is always elected Prime Minister, making the posts de facto hereditary.^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Doctor, Vein Surgery, Hospital Franco Emirien, Dr. William Kalchoff Profile, Abu Dhabi, Dubai UAE .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

Climate

The country is extraordinarily dry, getting only a few days of rain a year. Despite that, Emiratis use water at an alarming rate: there are broad swaths of grass in the major public parks, for example, and landscaping can be extensive in the resorts or other public places. The majority of this water comes from desalinisation. Visitors do not pay for their water use. The weather from late October through mid-March is quite pleasant, with high temperatures ranging from around 27°C ( 85°F) to lows around 15°C ( 63°F). It is almost always sunny. Rain can happen between November and February, and can cause road hazards when it does. In the summer, the temperatures soar and humidity is close to unbearable — it is widely suspected that the officially reported temperatures are "tweaked" to cut off the true summer highs, which can reach 50°C, or around 120°F, or even higher!

People

The population is incredibly diverse. Only some 20% of the population of the Emirates are 'real' Emiratis; the rest come from the Indian Subcontinent: India, Pakistan, or Bangladesh (some 50%); other parts of Asia, particularly the Philippines, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka (another perhaps 15%); and "Western" countries (UK, Europe, Australia, USA, South Africa; 5-6%), with the remainder from everywhere else. On any given day in, say, Dubai or Sharjah, you can see people from every continent and every social class. With this diversity, one of the few unifying factors is language, and consequently nearly everyone speaks some version of English. Nearly all road or other information signs are in English and Arabic, and English is widely spoken, particularly in the hospitality industry. On the other hand, there are elements that would be unsettling for overseas travelers, such as fully veiled women, but as this is "their way", tourists should show respect and will be offered the same in turn.
Ramadan dates
  • 2010 (1431): Aug 11 - Sep 9
  • 2011 (1432): Aug 1 - Aug 29
  • 2012 (1433): Jul 20 - Aug 18
The festival of Eid ul-Fitr is held after the end of Ramadan and may last several days. Exact dates depend on astronomical observations and may vary from country to country.
The weekend in the the U.A.E. for most government and public services as well as businesses runs from Friday to Saturday; for many, Thursday may be a half day (although most often work all day Saturdays). In nearly every city, commercial activity will be muted on Friday mornings, but after the noon services at the mosques most businesses open and Friday evenings can be crowded.
The major exception is during the fasting month of Ramadan, when the rhythm of life changes drastically. Restaurants (outside tourist hotels) stay closed during the daylight hours, and while most offices and shops open in the morning from 8 AM to 2 PM or so, they usually close in the afternoon while people wait (or sleep) out the last hours of the fast. After sundown, people gather to break their fast with a meal known as iftar, often held in outdoor tents (not uncommonly air-conditioned in the UAE!), which traditionally starts with dates and a sweet drink. Some offices reopen after 8 PM or so and stay open well after midnight, as many people stay up late until the morning hours. Just before sunrise, a meal called sohoor is eaten, and then the cycle repeats again.

Regions

The seven emirates (imarat, singular - imarah) that make up the UAE are:
Map of the United Arab Emirates
Map of the United Arab Emirates
Abu Dhabi
Dubai
Sharjah
Ajman
Umm al Quwain
Ra's al Khaymah
Fujairah
.The largest of these by far is Abu Dhabi, while probably the most well known is Dubai.^ Doctor, Vein Surgery, Hospital Franco Emirien, Dr. William Kalchoff Profile, Abu Dhabi, Dubai UAE .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]
  • Abu Dhabi - The capital of the UAE
  • Ajman - The smallest emirate, One of the budget destinations.
  • Al Ain - Inland and close to the Omani bordertown of Buraimi, Al Ain comprises a triangle between the proper cities of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
  • Dubai - The most common entry point for travelers, it is the transport and commerce center of the UAE.
  • Sharjah - A cheaper destination, dusty and chaotic in places but with its own unique charm.

Get in

Citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council do not require a visa.
Citizens of most industrialized countries will receive a 30-day visa on arrival in the United Arab Emirates free of charge. This can be extended for up to 90 days after arrival for a fee of Dhs 500. The countries are listed below:
Australia, Andorra, Austria, Brunei, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom (except BN(O) passports), United States of America and the Vatican.
Several other countries are eligible for free hotel/tour-sponsored tourism visas. See UAE Immigration [1] for the latest details.
All other nationalities will be required to apply for a visa in advance, which will require a sponsor from inside the UAE. Your travel agent will usually be able or arrange this for you if you book your hotel through them.
Israeli citizens are banned by the UAE government from entering the country. However, despite much online misinformation to the contrary, as of 2008 Israeli visa stamps are — by official policy [2] — quietly ignored.
If you are traveling from India (not sure of procedure from other countries), please get a stamp of 'OK to Board'. Most of the times, it is arranged by your travel agent. In case he hasn't then as soon as you get your Visa; take your Visa, Passport and Ticket to your Airlines office and get the stamp of 'OK to board'. Without this you might not be allowed to travel to UAE.

Customs regulations

Each non-muslim adult can bring in four items of alcohol , eg four bottles of wine, or four bottles of spirits, or four cases of beer (regardless of alcohol content).
The UAE takes an infamously strict line on medicines, with many common drugs, notably anything with containing codeine, diazepam (Valium) or dextromethorphan (Robitussin) being banned unless you have a notarized and authenticated doctor's prescription. Visitors breaking the rules, even inadvertently, have found themselves deported or jailed. The US Embassy to the UAE maintains an unofficial list [3] of what may not be imported.
Don't even think about bringing in narcotics: possession of even trace amounts leads to a minimum of four years in jail.
Dubai airport
Dubai airport
The main hub for air transport in the United Arab Emirates is Dubai airport, which is served by several major airlines, most notably Dubai-based Emirates [4]. .Direct flights connect Dubai to Johannesburg, London, Sydney, Melbourne, Karachi, Tehran, Riyadh, Bombay, Hong Kong, Paris, Zurich, Frankfurt, New York City, São Paulo and many other major cities in Europe, Asia, Australasia and Africa.^ Exotic - Asia/Africa/Other .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]
.After Dubai, the airport at Abu Dhabi has the next best international connections.^ Air passengers to get boarding passes by SMS A study published in Air Transport World Magazine has both Abu Dhabi and Sharjah international airports listed as one of 1,400 airports worldwide who will apply for the Bar Code Boarding Pass .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ It's all go for the Australian community in Dubai Numerous events were held in Dubai and Abu Dhabi with several others scheduled to take place across the country over the next few weeks.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 .Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways [5] now offers direct flights from New York, Toronto and many other airports in Europe and Asia.^ Next internet phase offers an opportunity for bold step Public and private organisations across the Gulf now face an opportunity to embrace a new model of productivity based on collaboration .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Abu Dhabi parking fee from Saturday Residents in E3 sector can now obtain Mawaqif permits .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 Other major airlines serving Abu Dhabi include British Airways [6] from London-Heathrow, KLM [7] from Amsterdam, Lufthansa [8] from Frankfurt and Singapore Airlines [9] from Singapore and Jeddah.
For low-cost flights, Air Arabia [10] has set up a hub at Sharjah airport (which is very close to Dubai), and flies there from many cities in the Middle East and India.

By car

.There is road access to the United Arab Emirates from Saudi Arabia in the south and Oman in the east.^ It is bordered by Oman to the east and Saudi Arabia to the west and south.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 All highways in the UAE are in excellent condition, but there is a huge amount of traffic between Sharjah and Dubai, as well as a 4 AED charge to cross the Salik toll gate. A prepaid license card is required for this.

By boat

There is a large network of dhows which transport goods throughout the Gulf and India. It may be possible to buy passage on one of these boats. .They call at all coastal cities in the UAE, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi.^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ It's all go for the Australian community in Dubai Numerous events were held in Dubai and Abu Dhabi with several others scheduled to take place across the country over the next few weeks.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Abu Dhabi roads Tailgating has caused a high rate of fatal accidents on UAE roads, police said.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

Get around

Distances in the UAE are relatively short and no rail service exists for the moment, so getting around by road is the only way to go. The roads are generally in excellent condition; however, signage is poor in some of the emirates.

By public transport

Public transportation within cities remains rudimentary. Dubai is building an extensive monorail and train system, but the other emirates offer very little public transportation. Intercity bus services are fast, comfortable and reasonably frequent.
.In the cities of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, taxis are widely available.^ Abu Dhabi to introduce 'ladies only' taxis About 70 Ladies only taxis will be introduced for women and children below 10 years old .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 They are relatively cheap in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. A ride to anywhere within the city of Abu Dhabi will cost approximately US$2, as they charge solely by distance traveled. A night surcharge of US$3 may be added after 10pm, depending on your driver.

By car

The UAE has a modern road system. Renting a car or driving in the UAE requires an international driver's license, which is simply a translation of your standard license and can be acquired at a local automobile association. If you have UAE residency status, you must obtain a local driver's license. This can be a simple process that must be completed at their version of the Department of Motor Vehicles and can be done in 20 minutes, but only if you are from a specific list of countries (predominantly Western). If you are from an Asian country, you currently have to undergo 40 classes at a local driving school and get through a pretty tough license exam. This is changing, though, and it may apply to all nationalities soon. Car rentals are slightly cheaper than in the U.S. There is a flat fee per day for renting a car, which is based upon the car's size. Petrol (gasoline) is, by the standards of both the U.S. and Europe, inexpensive. The road system is based along British or European standards, with a plethora of roundabouts and highly channelized traffic. But the signs are readily understandable and are, in most places, clear and coherent. Drivers in the UAE, particularly in the urban areas, tend to be highly aggressive and often use tactics that range from the stupid to the disastrous. This may perhaps stem from the traffic, which can be extremely congested in the urban areas, or from other factors.
People in the UAE drive extremely fast and some are completely reckless: overtaking by the right is the rule, speed limits are ignored by many--including heavy trucks. Last-second line change seems to be a national sport. The UAE has the third-highest death rate from traffic accidents in the world (just behind Saudi and Oman). Be especially careful when you spot a tinted-window SUV at night: due to the black windows, the driver won't see you if s/he decides to change lanes. Theoretically forbidden, the practice of tinting windows over 30% is widespread among young Arabs, and is generally associated with poor driving skills and fast driving.
There are now some good local city maps, particularly for Dubai (the Explorer series of books). Be aware that construction is on-going, sometimes rapidly changing the road networks, so maps capture only a "point in time." Sharjah remains poorly mapped. Recently a web site (http://www.ae.map24.com/) offered the first decent online maps of the UAE. Google Earth does offer solid satellite pictures but at a level of detail good mainly for broad reference purposes. The lack of good map or signage makes the use of a compass or GPS sometimes useful if you want to get off the highway.
Desert safaris or "wadi bashing" are good attractions in the vicinity of Dubai, but great care needs to be taken while choosing a hired vehicle; it should be a 4WD. Desert safaris are also generally pre-designed with travel agents and can give you good deal as well on quantity.

Talk

The official language is Arabic, but it is safe to say that the majority of the population doesn't speak it (Iranian, Indian, Asian and Western expatriates are more numerous than Arabs in Dubai, and usually have very limited knowledge of Arabic). English is the lingua franca. As the UAE was a British protectorate, most locals would have learnt English in school and would know at least basic English.
Other languages widely spoken in the UAE include Farsi (Persian), Hindi/Urdu (Hindustani), Malayalam, and Tagalog (Filipino). Most people possess at least a basic command of English, though it is not uncommon to meet people whose English is limited.
In Dubai, most shops, hotels, and commercial businesses conduct business in English. .Generally speaking, Arabic is spoken by government departments and the police; however, in Abu Dhabi and in the Northern Emirates, Arabic is much more widely spoken.^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Abu Dhabi roads Tailgating has caused a high rate of fatal accidents on UAE roads, police said.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]
  • Some of the largest sand dunes in the world in the south of Abu Dhabi in the Liwa Oasis area.
  • Beautiful beaches on the east coast.
  • Rugged, remote wadis in the northern emirates.
The turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf along the Corniche, Abu Dhabi
The turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf along the Corniche, Abu Dhabi
One of the main focuses of tourist life (other than shopping) is the beach. The waters of the UAE, although definitely more cloudy in recent years due to heavy coastal construction, are still, for those from less torrid climes, remarkably warm, clean, and beautiful. There are long stretches of white-sand beaches, ranging from completely undeveloped to highly touristed (even in cities like Dubai). The snorkeling and diving can be magnificent, especially along the eastern (Indian Ocean) coast. Vast swaths of desert stretch to the south of the major urban areas, offering dramatic views and terrifying rides in fast-driven safaris. The mountains are dramatic, steep rocky crags, and a visit to them (for example, the town of Hatta) is well rewarded with amazing views. Women wearing bathing suits will draw unwanted attention at the public beaches; it is advisable to pay for a one-day entry pass to a private beach at a hotel.
Ski Dubai in Dubai Emirates Mall opened in December 2005. It is the world's third largest indoor ski slope, measuring 400 meters and using 6000 tons of snow. Ski Dubai resort [11] is the first UAE indoor ski slope to open, and more are planned. No equipment is needed--skis/snowboards, snowsuits, boots and socks are all included in the price (the socks are disposable). You may want to buy a cheap pair of glove liners and a hat from their souvenir store.
.The Marina Mall in Abu Dhabi is scheduled to open an indoor ski slope as well in 2007 - 2008. A ski slope in Ra's al Khaimah is also in the works.^ Educated citizens best investment - Mohammad Abu Dhabi Crown Prince opens school that will teach Chinese.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Two get year in prison in Ras Al Khaimah for attempted rape Men attempted to rape two Filipinas in a vehicle .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

Buy

The currency is the United Arab Emirates dirham (AED, local abbreviation dhs). Conversion rates are 3.68 AED for 1 USD, 4.5 AED for 1 EUR and 6.8 AED for 1 GBP. The Dirham is pegged to the USD, so rate variations with this currency are unlikely. .Notes are in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 dirhams.^ Emiratis will seek jobs in the next 10 years The ADTC has registered 10,000 job-seeking Emiratis since its initiation and placed Emiratis in 2,500 jobs last year alone, said Al Darmaki.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 There is a one dirham coin with sub-units of 25 and 50 fils coins (100 fils = 1 dirham). There are 5 fils and 10 fils coins but these are rarely seen (and provide an excuse for traders to 'short change').
Cash and travellers' cheques can be changed at exchanges located at the airports or in all the major shopping malls. ATMs are numerous and generously distributed. They accept all the major chain cards: Visa, Cirrus, Maestro etc. Credit cards are widely accepted.

Costs

.Basic commodities used to be cheaper than in most western countries, although this is changing rapidly (Dubai has moved up the ranking to be the 25th most expensive city to live in; Abu Dhabi is close behind).^ Yacht show floats Abu Dhabi boat Participation of 24 of the world's most impressive vessels has been confirmed .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ It's all go for the Australian community in Dubai Numerous events were held in Dubai and Abu Dhabi with several others scheduled to take place across the country over the next few weeks.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 .Hotels rates are not cheap--there is a shortage of hotel rooms available, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which keeps the hotels often at above 90% occupancy.^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Abu Dhabi roads Tailgating has caused a high rate of fatal accidents on UAE roads, police said.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 .Vast numbers of new hotels are scheduled to come on line during the next five to ten years, but as tourism is on the rise, it is unlikely that prices will come down.^ New Port Rashid terminal set to boost Dubai cruise tourism Official expects steady rise in number of ships hosted by emirate .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Jumeirah Group wins long-term deal to manage luxury Thai hotel The total number of properties under its management rises to 41 .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 All things touristy also tend to be rather expensive. Rents in Dubai are starting to compete with cities like Paris or London, and other prices tend to follow. Some places have shared accommodations available and are quite reasonable.

Shopping

One of the things the UAE is most famous for is shopping. There are no sales taxes in the UAE, but it is very difficult to find any real bargains anymore as inflation is at an all-time high. If you are interested in shopping, you can't leave the UAE without visiting Dubai. .Dubai boasts the best places for shopping in the whole of the Middle East, especially during the annual shopping festival, usually from mid-January to mid-February.^ The Dubai Events and Promotions Establishment has come up with an exciting calendar of events for a landmark 15th edition of Dubai Shopping Festival, expected to run over 32 days, having started Thursday and ending on February 28.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Beginner's guide to DSF 2010 To those of you who didn't know, we who live in Dubai spell fun as DSF. The Dubai Shopping Festival is Dubai's sensational contribution to the world of commerce and tourism - the emirate's annual shopping, leisure and entertainment bonanza.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Emirati becomes first winner of Dubai Shopping Festival raffle Al Ketbe wins a Lexus car and Dh100,000 in cash .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]
A fancy Arabic mixed grill. Clockwise from top: lamb kofta, chicken shish tawuk, beef shish kebab, pilaf (Arabic rice), vegetables.
A fancy Arabic mixed grill. Clockwise from top: lamb kofta, chicken shish tawuk, beef shish kebab, pilaf (Arabic rice), vegetables.
.Dubai and, to a lesser extent, Abu Dhabi offer a vast spread of food from most of the world's major cuisines.^ Yacht show floats Abu Dhabi boat Participation of 24 of the world's most impressive vessels has been confirmed .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Doctor, Vein Surgery, Hospital Franco Emirien, Dr. William Kalchoff Profile, Abu Dhabi, Dubai UAE .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 By Western standards most restaurants are quite affordable although it is easy to find extremely expensive food too. Traditional Shawarma and other Arabic cuisines are readily available and are quite cheap and delicious with medium spicy flavour, with controlled calories. Grilled chickens are available at most of the hotels on the road which can be relished with other accompaniments like Khubz (Arabic Bread), hummus, etc.

Drink

.Dubai has a burgeoning nightlife scene and even formerly straitlaced Abu Dhabi has loosened up and tried to catch up.^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Doctor, Vein Surgery, Hospital Franco Emirien, Dr. William Kalchoff Profile, Abu Dhabi, Dubai UAE .
  • Find a Doctor, Search Doctor In Dubai, Medical and General Information Portal | Dubai, UAE. 27 January 2010 23:47 UTC doctor-dubai.com [Source type: Academic]

 Alcohol is available in liquor stores, 5-star hotel restaurants and bars in all emirates except Sharjah, where you can only drink in your home or in an expat hangout called the Sharjah Wanderers. As a tourist, you are permitted to buy alcohol in bars and restaurants to drink there. If you are a resident, you're supposed to have a liquor license (never asked for in bars) which also allows you to buy alcohol at liquor stores (they do check).
During Ramadan, no alcohol is served during daylight (fasting) hours. .Dubai and Abu Dhabi permit bars to serve alcohol at night, but bands stop playing, background music is off or quiet, no dancing is allowed and nightclubs are usually closed.^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Abu Dhabi parking fee from Saturday Residents in E3 sector can now obtain Mawaqif permits .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 On certain holy days in the Islamic calendar, no alcohol is served publicly in any of the UAE.
Do not under any circumstance drink and drive in the UAE. If by chance you are in an accident, this becomes a card for going directly to jail — especially during Ramadan. Taxis are widely available if you have been drinking and are a much safer and wiser option given the insane driving habits in the region.

Sleep

For the visitor, the UAE has one of the most spectacular ranges of tourist accommodations in the world. There are staggeringly beautiful, modern hotels, which can be staggeringly expensive, along with more modest housing. Low-cost accommodations are available but, as anywhere, vary alarmingly as to their condition.
.There is an impressive number of super-luxury hotels, most notably the sail-shaped Burj al-Arab (Tower of the Arabs), a Dubai landmark popularly known as a "7-star hotel" — a nonexistent category, but still opulent by any standard.^ Jumeirah Group wins long-term deal to manage luxury Thai hotel The total number of properties under its management rises to 41 .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Dubai denies inviting Victoria Beckham to design luxury hotel The Vice-President 'did not send any email, invitation of financial offer to Beckham' .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 .The Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi also aspires to the same standards, at a fraction of the price.^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

Respect

Emiratis are a proud but welcoming people and, when not in their cars, are generally extremely civil and friendly. .Like most peoples of the world, they welcome visitors who are willing to show some amount of respect and can be extremely generous.^ Yacht show floats Abu Dhabi boat Participation of 24 of the world's most impressive vessels has been confirmed .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 (Some expats and visitors do not understand that revealing clothing can be quite offensive to some people, even if nothing is said to the offenders.) Their culture is unique and can be highly conservative, but overall they are quite attuned to the ways, customs, events, media, and manners of the world.
Local men usually wear a "Kandora", a white robe and a head gear. Local women wear a black robe and a black head scarf
The UAE is more conservative than most Western societies, though not as much as some of its neighbors. Travelers should be aware and respect the more traditional outlook in the UAE, as there are behaviors typical in the West (for example, making "rude and insulting gestures") that will result in arrest in the UAE. On the other hand, Western travelers will find most of the UAE quite comfortable.
Although women are not required to wear the hijab, most revealing fashions such as tank tops and shorts should be avoided. Below-the-knee skirts are somewhat more acceptable, although you will still incur stares. However, there are quite a few tourist or expatriate-dominated zones where even "provocative" dress may be seen, although not necessary respected. .These include many areas of the Emirate of Dubai and, for example, beach resorts in Ajman or Fujairah.^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 Public nudity anywhere is strictly forbidden and will be punished. Sharjah is the most conservative of the Emirates with public decency statutes (i.e., forbidding overly revealing clothing or certain kinds of beach wear), but few of them are enforced (although that varies).
The Emirates are not gay-friendly, and consensual homosexual activity is potentially subject to the death penalty. However, discretion is the key: like many things in Emirati society, what happens behind closed doors is - well - what happens. On the other hand, it is not uncommon for Emirati men or women to show physical affection--Emirati men often kiss one another's noses in greeting and women greet one another with cheek kisses and may hold hands or link arms.

Stay safe

The crime rate is extremely low in the United Arab Emirates, although of course one must use common sense.
A couple of things you should be aware of are to do with drug laws in the UAE. Some common painkillers in western countries are illegal narcotics in the UAE, eg. codeine. Don't bring any with you unless you carry a copy of your prescription. People have received jail sentences for making this mistake. In contrast, antibiotics are freely available over the counter at pharmacies. .If you receive a prescription for controlled drugs in the UAE -- such as some painkillers and antidepressents -- be sure to keep the copy of the prescription with you when traveling out of the country.^ Tylenol in UAE market is safe The UAE's Minister of Health received a notification from the pharmaceutical company which produces Tylenol to the effect that it would pull out some containers because of complications that had occurred in three countries .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]
.Another trap for the unwary is that if you are suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, a blood test can be taken and if it shows evidence of substances that are illegal in the UAE, then you will probably end up in jail even if the substances were ingested in the country that you were previously in.^ Test to determine gender of foetus in UAE The highly sensitive test is marketed under the name "pink or blue" and only requires a drop of blood from the woman seven weeks into conception.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 In addition to testing your blood they will likely check your belongings. People have been jailed for possession for finding microscopic specks of drugs on them with highly sensitive equipment. Considering that most US currency and the currency of many other nations has been shown to be tainted with microscopic amounts of cocaine the only thing you can do to keep yourself out of jail is to avoid appearing suspicious in the first place.
And on the note of being landed in jail be cautious!

Stay healthy

.General medical care in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah is quite good, with clinics for general and specialized care widely available, including some which are now open 24 hours a day.^ Yacht show floats Abu Dhabi boat Participation of 24 of the world's most impressive vessels has been confirmed .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Al Ain air show wows spectators The opening day displays included individual and team performances from 23 teams .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 Hospitals in the major centers are well-equipped to deal with any medical emergencies. There is an ambulance system in all major population centres; however, coverage can be patchy in the more remote areas. Ambulances are designed for transportation rather than providing care as first responders, so don't expect top-flight on-site care. .The main government hospital in Abu Dhabi is quite good; in Dubai, The government hospitals are Rashid hospital, which has a new Trauma Centre and Dubai Hospital which are very good.^ New Port Rashid terminal set to boost Dubai cruise tourism Official expects steady rise in number of ships hosted by emirate .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 Welcare Hospital American Hospital Zulekha Hospital NMC Hospital, and Belhoul Hospital in the private sector all have a good reputation. The country is free of malaria and prophylaxis is not needed. In Sharjah, the Kuwaiti (Goverrnment) Hospital accepts expatriates. The private hospitals in Sharjah are the Zahra hospital, Zulekha Hospital and Central Private Hospital. Prices including healthcare are generally cheaper in Sharjah and although all hospitals meet the Ministry of Health standards the Central Private Hospital and Zulekha Hospitals are considered more affordable.These are your best bets (pay extra to the ambulance or taxi drivers to take you to one of these hospitals in UAE); it may save your life.
The water is safe to drink in the UAE, although most people prefer bottled water for its taste. The food is clean and in most restaurants is served to Western standards, particularly in tourist areas; however, hygeine can be an issue in some establishments outside, particularly roadside stalls. That said, food poisoning does happen, so use your common sense!
The heat in summer can reach 50 degrees C (122 degrees F), so avoid outdoors activity at the height of the day and watch out for signs of heat stroke. Be sure to drink lots of water as dehydration happens easily in such heat. If travelling off road (most of the country is desert), ensure you carry sufficient water to allow you to walk to the road should vehicles become bogged.
Although the UAE is somewhat more accommodating to handicapped travellers than other countries in the Mideast, it would nonetheless be a difficult country to navigate in a wheelchair. Curbs are high and there are few, if any, ramps or other accommodations. This includes an almost complete lack of handicapped-friendly bathrooms.

Contact

By phone

The country code is 971. The mobile phone network uses the GSM technology (as in Europe and Africa) and use is widespread. There are internet cafes in the major towns. The format for dialing is: +971-#-### ####, where the first "#" designates the area code. .Key area codes include Dubai (4), Sharjah (6) and Abu Dhabi (2).^ The Country: UAE is a country made up of seven 'emirates': Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 ^ Air passengers to get boarding passes by SMS A study published in Air Transport World Magazine has both Abu Dhabi and Sharjah international airports listed as one of 1,400 airports worldwide who will apply for the Bar Code Boarding Pass .
  • UAE Business Directory-Dubai|Gulf|GCC|Middle East Business Directory UAE Information Information on Dubai UAE news 2 February 2010 17:50 UTC www.uaebusinessdirectory.com [Source type: News]

 Calls to mobile phones use the operator's area codes: (50/56) for Etisalat and (55) for Du. Like other countries, when dialing locally, "00" is used to access an international number (and followed by the country code) and "0" is used to access a national number (followed by the area code).

By internet

Internet cafes are fairly common in the larger cities, and web censorship is at times odd but rarely obtrusive. Users should be well aware of the fact that any website that contains the Israeli Internet-TLD .il is blocked. Not much information is known of how to bypass this blocking for people who need to visit Israeli websites. Instant messaging and voice-over-IP services like Skype sometimes work. The government owned telecommunications operator blocks access to these services to varying degrees. The blocking does not always stop calls and may vary depending on the network used. They also appear to be able to block Skypeout calls whilst allowing Skype-Skype calls. Even if the services are not blocked, connection speed can be an issue. Most people use a VPN Service to bypass Local Internet restrictions in UAE.
This is a usable article. It has information for getting in as well as some complete entries for restaurants and hotels. An adventurous person could use this article, but please plunge forward and help it grow!

Wiktionary

Up to date as of January 14, 2010

Definition from Wiktionary, a free dictionary

Contents

English

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Proper noun

Plural
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  1. A country in the Middle East. Official name: The United Arab Emirates; abbreviation: UAE.

Translations

country in the Middle East

See also


Citable sentences

Up to date as of December 04, 2010

Here are sentences from other pages on Dubai, which are similar to those in the above article.








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