UAE - Overview

United Arab Emirates - Overview

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of 7 states - Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al khaimah, Sharjah and Umm al Qaiwain. These states formed in 1971 after they gained independence from Britain. There is instability in the federation due to uncertainty over the nature of it and certain boundary disputes, however, Abu Dhabi and Dubai have stabilised the federation.

Abu Dhabi is the capital and the largest state and is relatively flat and sandy. It is sometimes called the Manhattan of the Middle East and has a lot of skyscrapers and modern buildings. Abu Dhabi is located on an island and its famous attractions being the Petroleum Exhibition and the Heritage Village and the Al Hisn Fort. The prettiest place to visit is the Batin in the oldest part of the town.

The remainder of states are known as the Northern States collectively with mainly mountainous and desert land. Dubai has a number of attractions and has become a very popular place for visitors. It is easy to explore a whole variety of attractions in a day - from mountains to sand dunes, to green parks, It is also very famous for its shopping and low import duties. It is known as the Pearl of the Gulf due to its deep-water creek.

In 1966, the United Arab Emirates discovered the production of oil, which gave the local economy a boost. Dubai exported oil for the first time in 1969 laying the foundations for today's oil production.

There are no political parties in the UAE; however, the highest federal authority is the Supreme Council of rulers that consists of rulers from the 7 states. For decisions to be made, there must be agreement from at least 5 states, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Jobs in the United Arab Emirates