United Arab Emirates is a state in Asia. United Arab Emirates (UAE). Useful information for tourists

United Arab Emirates (UAE) - A federation of seven independent states lying along the eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. The federation includes the emirates of Abu Dhabi (Abu Zabu), Ajman, Dubai, Al-Rujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah, Umm al-Quwain, officially united in 1971.The Emirates developed from several villages located on the coast Persian Gulf, excluding the emirate of Fujairah, located on the shores of the Gulf of Oman. The capital of the UAE is the city of Abu Dhabi, but Dubai, Sharjah, Ras al-Khaimah, Fujairah are also independent capitals of each emirate.

The United Arab Emirates occupies an area at the northeastern end of the Arabian Peninsula. In the north, the state has an uninterrupted common border with Qatar, in the west and south - with Saudi Arabia, in the east - with the Sultanate of Oman. In the north it is washed by the Persian, in the east - by the Gulf of Oman. The total area is 83.6 thousand sq. km. The length of the coast along the Persian Gulf is 500 km, along the Omani-75 km. Its northern coastline faces Iran across the Persian Gulf, while Qatar is just 50 km northwest. The UAE consists of seven emirates - Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm al-Qaiwain. Together, these emirates cover an area roughly the same size as Portugal. The Emirate of Abu Dhabi occupies 85% of the area of ​​the entire UAE; and the smallest of the emirates - Ajman - only 250 sq. km.

The land borders of the UAE run through deserts and are not clearly defined. The length of the border with Oman is 410 km, with Saudi Arabia - 457 km. The coastline is 1,318 km long. The length of the territorial waters is 12 nautical miles, the economic zone is 200 nautical miles. The continental shelf also stretches for 200 nautical miles. The UAE is ruled by the Supreme Council, in which the rulers of 7 emirates. This body is the highest authority in the country. The Emirates coordinate policy in such areas as communications, education, defense, foreign policy, and the unification of domestic legislation. However, each emirate has its own state property.

Back in the VI century. BC. on the territory of the UAE was located the state of the Achaemenids - contemporaries, and, according to some historians, relatives of the Egyptian pharaohs. In the III-VI centuries. the country was part of the Sassanid state, and in the 7th century. became one of the territories of the Arab Caliphate. From here began the spread of one of the main world religions - Islam.

UAE relief

The landscape of the United Arab Emirates seems monotonous, however, in fact, the terrain is not so monotonous. In the east, the peaks of the Hajjar mountains, consisting of separate massifs, in some places reach 1000-1500 m above sea level. Hajar is famous for its numerous key lakes of volcanic origin and an indescribable color palette of stones. Between the mountains and the Gulf of Oman lies the fertile Al Batinah valley, whose width ranges from 48 to 2 km.

Statistical indicators of the UAE
(as of 2012)

The coast of the country stretches for 600 km along the Persian Gulf, the shores are mostly low, indented by shallow bays, abounding with numerous islands, coral reefs and shoals, among which the structures for the extraction of "black gold" from the seabed stand out with austere silhouettes. At the same time, the coast is distinguished by golden sands and exceptional purity and transparency of the water.

The narrow coastal strip, which houses the main tourist and business centers of the UAE, is formed by a low sandy plain with a lot of salt marshes. Gradually, the plain turns into vast rocky plateaus and mobile sand dunes about 200 km long, occupying about 2/3 of the territory of the UAE. This desert, in turn, is part of the huge Rub al-Khali desert. This is one of the harshest places on earth. In desert areas, green oases are often found, very small or larger. The most significant of these is Al Ain in the emirate of Abu Dhabi.

The peculiarity of the UAE's geography is that most of the territory of the United Arab Emirates is occupied by an inexpressive desert lying near the borders of the Empty Quarter (Rub al-Khali), which is located in the southeast of Saudi Arabia. The coastal regions of the United Arab Emirates are covered with a layer of salt, while the northern and eastern regions of the country are covered with greenery and invite to enjoy the stunning mountain scenery. Outside the mountainous regions of Fujairah and Ras al-Khaimah, much of the United Arab Emirates' vegetation is the result of the government's greening program: even the natural groves of date palms in the Buraimi Oasis, on the country's eastern border, were brought here from municipal parks.

The UAE includes the small islands of the Persian Gulf. The UAE occupies a desolate low-lying plain along the southern coast of the Persian Gulf. In the east - a rocky plateau, turning into the Hajar Mountains (the highest point in the UAE is Mount Ibir, 1527 m). The west and south of the Emirates are occupied by sandy and stony deserts (El-Mijan, El-Jazira, El-Mugrib, Hatam, etc.). In the far northwest of the UAE, there are moving sand dunes. The coastline of the Persian Gulf is heavily indented by small bays. Along it there are many small islands framed by coral reefs. In the south, in the desert, the UAE borders on Saudi Arabia, in the west - on the emirate of Qatar, in the east the extreme land ledge near the Strait of Hormuz (Muscat) is occupied by the enclave of Oman.

Geological structure and minerals of the UAE

Geological structure. The territory of the United Arab Emirates is located in the Rub al-Khali depression on the southeastern plunge of the Arabian platform. The geological structure of the depression has been studied very poorly. According to geophysical data, the total thickness of sedimentary rocks developed within the depression is 6-7 km. The upper part of the sedimentary filling is better studied - Permian, Mesozoic and Paleogene deposits. The section is dominated by marine carbonate formations with interlayers of lagoon halogen and coastal marine terrigenous rocks. The structure of the Mesozoic deposits is complicated by gently sloping brachyanticlinal and dome-shaped structures grouped into zones of regional swell-like uplifts. The development of salt tectonics is characteristic of the southeastern regions of the UAE. The extreme northeast of the country (Al-Fujairah) is occupied by the spurs of the mountain-fold structure of Oman, within which powerful ophiolite complexes are developed.

The most important natural wealth of the country is oil and gas. The main hydrocarbon reserves are concentrated in the emirates of Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The territory of the United Arab Emirates with the adjacent water area is located on the platform slope of the Persian Gulf of the oil and gas basin. Oil deposits are mainly confined to the limestones of the Tamama series and the Nahr Umr and Shuaiba formations of the Lower Cretaceous age. In some fields (Umm-Shaif), oil-bearing carbonate deposits of the Arab and Araej formations of the Upper and Middle Jurassic. Oil deposits are also known in the Upper Cretaceous sediments of the Mishrif and Ilam formations (Mubarek field). Gas deposits were found mainly in limestones and dolomites of the Upper Permian age, less often in the Cretaceous deposits of the Tamam series (Murban-Bab field). The depth of occurrence of productive horizons in Cretaceous sediments is from 1650 to 3200 m, Jurassic - from 3300 to 4000 m, Permian from 4500 to 4700 m. Oils of the UAE fields are light, sulfurous, mainly methane. Prospects for the discovery of new oil and gas fields are associated with little-studied areas of the "Abudabi desert" and deep-lying productive horizons of the identified fields.

In the northern part of the country, in the Oman mountains south of Dibba, chromite-bearing placers (Cr2O3 11 - 16%) are known, confined to the rocks of the ophiolite complex. Small ore occurrences of copper and manganese were also found here. In 1974, uranium ore deposits were found in Fujairah.

Water resources and oases of the UAE

There are no permanent rivers in the UAE. Temporary streams flow through the valleys, for most of the year they are dry channels - wadis. Small irrigation canals, which began to appear around 1000 BC on the territory of the al-Ain oases (Emirate of Abu Dhabi) and Dhaid (Emirate of Sharjah), are still being constructed by local residents. In addition to the large oases of the coast: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Rashid, Sharjah, Umm al-Quwain, Ras al-Khaimah, Al-Fujairah, as well as the Al-Tarifa, Ez-Zannah stretching away from it, there are also oases located in the interior of the mainland, among which Buraimi is the most significant. The ocean coastline in Fujairah is very beautiful. The most picturesque are the rocky surroundings of the Hatta fortress, a two-hour drive from Dubai, the al-Ain oasis and the Healy oasis near Buraimi.

UAE climate

The United Arab Emirates is a country with a dry, subtropical climate, where, as a rule, there are no more than 7-10 rainy days a year, mainly in winter (January and February). Most often it rains on the eastern coast of the UAE (the territory of the emirate of Fujairah).

The climate in the United Arab Emirates is almost ideal, with the exception of the hot summer period. The daily temperature range, depending on the season, ranges from + 10 ° C to + 48 ° C. It should be noted that + 10 ° C and + 48 ° C are extreme values. The average air temperature in winter is + 24 ° C at a water temperature of + 13 ° C, in July-August + 41 ° C at a water temperature of + 33 ° C. So the best time to travel to the UAE is from October to May, when a warm sunny day is replaced by a cool evening. Typically, in the winter months, the temperature does not drop below +15 degrees (the average for January and February is about + 18 ° C). And in the hottest summer months, July and August, the average temperature is about + 35 ° С.

The water temperature on the beaches of the UAE (Persian Gulf) ranges from + 15 ° C in winter (December – February) to + 35 ° C in summer (May – October). In winter, when the water in the Persian Gulf does not warm up even in shallow water, almost no one bathes in open water. Usually at this time of the year, everyone swims in the indoor pools. The water in the hotel pools is heated in winter and cooled in summer, as in summer the water in the Persian Gulf is too warm and does not bring the desired coolness.

Winters in the UAE are dry and warm, summers are humid and hot. In the coastal regions of the country in summer and autumn, the humidity reaches 90%, at other times of the year the humidity is no more than 50-60%. However, the annual rainfall in the UAE is no more than 100mm. Droughts are quite frequent in this region, which can last for several years in a row. In winter and spring, the United Arab Emirates is characterized by sandy winds that blow mainly from the north and northwest.

In the UAE, the water temperature rarely drops below 19 degrees, the sun is constantly shining, which makes this country one of the most attractive holiday destinations. Although the best time to relax is from September to May, in summer, thanks to the air conditioning of the hotels and the cooling of the water in the pools, it is also possible to have a great rest despite the heat.

The best time to travel to the UAE is from November to April when the weather conditions are most comfortable. The rest of the months are very hot in the UAE.

The flora of the UAE

Much of the United Arab Emirates is a lifeless desert that is the largest in the world and stretches all the way to the southeastern part of Saudi Arabia. The small territory of the state contains all the diversity of nature and the diversity of the landscape of the Middle East region. The coastal areas of the UAE are salt marshes. Fascinating desert landscapes with green islets of oases and zones of red sands, quiet wadis (dry river estuaries) and multi-meter dunes smoothly transform into the majestic view of the rocky peaks of the al-Hajar mountain range with numerous key lakes of volcanic origin and an indescribable color palette of stones. The coral reefs of Korfakhan are famous for the unique flora and fauna of the underwater world, and the coast of the Persian Gulf is famous for its golden sands and exceptional transparency of water.

Since large areas are occupied by salt marshes and sandy deserts, the vegetation here is mostly sparse, consisting of dry grasses and shrubs. Much of the UAE's vegetation came from Africa millions of years ago before the formation of the Red Sea. Various plant species have managed to survive despite the harsh climate. Over the centuries, plants have evolved their methods of water conservation and survival. In some plants, the annual life cycle is compressed to several weeks. After a little rain, they begin to thrive in order to have time to bloom, form seeds and scatter them until another season before the soil becomes completely dry. The flowers are often quite small, but they bloom in abundance for a short amount of time, adding a welcome splash of color to the monochrome desert landscape.

Acacia and tamarisk grow in the oases, date and coconut palms, grapes, lemon trees, cereals, tobacco are cultivated. Outside Fujairah and Ras al-Qaymah, vast green spaces are the result of the government's landscaping program. Even the natural groves of date palms in the Buraimi oasis, on the country's eastern border, were brought here from municipal parks.

Fauna of the UAE

The fauna of the UAE is poor. These are mainly hares, jerboas, gazelles, lizards and snakes. The main representatives of the fauna are the Arabian leopard and Ibex (ibex) and, of course, camels (one-humped dromedary) and wild goats. Commercial fish (tuna, mackerel, sardine, hamur, barracuda) live in the waters of the Persian and Oman Gulfs; the order of crustaceans (shrimp, lobsters, crabs), cephalopods (cuttlefish, squid, octopus) and bivalve molluscs (oysters, mussels) is widely represented. There are sharks, rays, jellyfish, sea urchins and turtles, as well as large marine mammals - dugongs (sea seals). One third of all species of whales and dolphins are found in the UAE. If you are lucky, you will be able to see the humpback dolphin - a very rare, almost unexplored species.

The dry tropical climate allows fishing in the bay almost all year round, which largely determines the way of life of local residents and, of course, their food. Fish and seafood are extremely popular in the UAE. Lying at the intersection of three world-renowned zoological zones, the UAE's nature provides a stopover for thousands of bird species as they move from north to south each year. During spring and autumn migrations of birds, you can see their large concentrations in the north of the country. In winter, migratory birds from Siberia and Central Asia find shelter in the UAE, and the paths of those who fly further also pass through these places. Birdwatching studies over the past two decades have shown that bird diversity in the UAE is increasing year by year. More than 400 species have been recorded, most of them migrants. In fact, due to the attractive nature of the UAE, many species remain here for the winter. Several million migratory birds fly across the bay every year, making it one of the most important "migration routes" in the world.

To the casual observer, the nature of the UAE may seem poor and dull. But it is precisely because of this poverty that nature must be surrounded with even greater care to preserve what it has, because in a landscape like this, life itself balances everything very gracefully. In the UAE, unlike many other countries, mangrove forests are increasing in size due to conservation and cultivation programs, as well as control of marine pollution and coastal development. One large forest of mangroves adjacent to the island of Abu Dhabi has been declared a nature reserve and cannot be visited only for scientific research.

With the help of Ala Ein-Bazed University, desert areas were also protected to protect vegetation from being eaten by livestock. Almost as soon as oil revenues began pouring into the pockets of the UAE, the government began a program of afforestation and planting of gardens and parks. The Ala Ein oasis, for example, has vegetation covering one hundred square kilometers. Abu Dhabi itself is so well endowed with parks and gardens that it has earned it the name "garden city". This program is slowly reshaping the face of the country as well as providing new habitats for plants, animals and birds. The number of bird species that breed in the country has also increased.

UAE population

The population of the United Arab Emirates is approximately 4.8 million, of which only a third are ethnic Arabs and 11% are indigenous. The rest are immigrants from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal and other countries of South Asia and the Philippines who immigrated to the UAE as temporary workers. 85% of those living in the country are not citizens. Arab immigrants are mainly represented by Arabs from other Arab countries with a low standard of living (Yemen, Oman, Egypt, Morocco, and so on) as well as Palestinian refugees.

88% of the population of the Emirates is concentrated in cities. The largest and fastest growing city is Dubai with a population of over 2.5 million. Other major cities are Abu Dhabi (capital), Sharjah, Al Ain and Fujairah. Almost all UAE citizens are Muslims, 85% of whom are Sunnis and 15% are Shiites. According to the migration services of the Emirates, approximately 55% of immigrants are also Muslim, 25% are Hindus, 10% are Christians, 5% are Buddhists. The other 5% are Sikh and Bahá'í minorities. According to a study by the Ministry of Planning, of the 4.5 million people living in the UAE, including foreigners, three quarters are Muslims.

Dubai is the only emirate with gurdwara and mandir. There are churches in every emirate.

Source - http://ru.wikipedia.org/
http://www.eyevista-mice.ru/
http://www.mining-enc.ru/

An interesting fact is that ethnic Arabs and UAE citizens are by no means the largest ethnic group in the country. Most of all Indians live in the country - from 2.5 to 3 million people, Pakistanis are in second place - from 1.2 to 1.5 million.

Citizens are only in third place - there are 1,084,764 people (information for 2015). Attentive readers have noticed that the number of citizens is calculated with an accuracy of one person, and the data on visitors are approximate. Indeed, the citizens of the UAE are under strict account, and no one counts the visitors.

In fourth place in terms of number are visitors from Bangladesh - from 700 thousand to 1 million, then Filipinos - 500-700 thousand, Iranians and Egyptians - 400-500 thousand, Nepalese and Sri Lankans - 400-500 thousand.

The UAE is home to about 250,000 Russians and natives of the former republics of the USSR. Taking into account that about 400,000 Russians come to the United Arab Emirates for holidays a year, our citizens are in demand in the tourism industry.

Do not be surprised when you do not see an Arab at the hotel reception, citizens do not work in such small positions. Citizens work in the field of government - in banks, police, customs and other government agencies.

Newcomers, in most cases, are engaged in low-paid jobs. Exceptions are invited managers and employees from Europe. This motley ethnic composition makes the demographic statistics in the UAE very interesting.

Features of the composition of the population

In the UAE, there are 2.15 times more men than women. It is for this reason that women are not recommended to travel alone to the UAE. Imagine for a second the gigantic sexual frustration of local men. We are not talking about citizens, but about visiting workers. Despite strict Sharia law, there is prostitution in the UAE. The authorities are aware of this, but they are not particularly zealous in the fight against this phenomenon.

Cases of sexual violence are frequent, but there are very few criminal cases in these cases. The reason is the technology of handling such cases in the police. If a woman reports rape, then evidence is required to initiate a case - beatings. If there are no beatings, then the rape is not recorded.

Thanks to the newcomers, the population of the country is very young - 55% of the population is made up of people from 20 to 40 years old. This is natural, because young people are invited to work, the old man will not be invited to work on a construction site.

The birth rate greatly exceeds the death rate. According to the latest statistics for 2011, 84,000 people were born, only 7,350 died. This is logical, workers are invited to work in the country at a young age, with good health and minimal risks of death.

Life expectancy is high: 77.5 years for men, 80.2 years for women. For comparison, in Russia life expectancy for men is 58.6 years, for women it is 74 years.

Tourists have to communicate with Indians, Iranians and other visitors. Let's talk about them in more detail.

- a federation consisting of several emirates. Each of them is actually a separate country - an absolute monarchy. All emirates differ in size (some can be classified as dwarf states), climatic conditions, level of tourist popularity and many other factors. Our article will tell you about which emirates are part of the UAE, what are their names and features of each of them that are important for.

How many emirates are in the UAE?

Going on vacation to the mysterious eastern country of the United Arab Emirates, it will be useful to find out that there are exactly 7 items in the list of Arab Emirates, their names are as follows:

On the map below you can see how they are located and what is the approximate distance between the emirates of the UAE. It is noteworthy that the administrative center of each of the emirates bears the same name as the emirate itself. Emirates are not regions, not states, not provinces, but full-fledged small countries. Each of them is ruled by its own emir. The emirates united into one state relatively recently, in 1972. The head of the United Arab Emirates is the Emir of Abu Dhabi.

In which emirate it is better to relax in the UAE, everyone decides for himself. For some, the most important thing is the quality of a beach holiday, someone likes active entertainment, and still others come to the UAE for shopping. Only one thing can be said for sure: all the best that you can wish for is concentrated in the seven emirates:

• - both supermodern and old, with a touch of oriental exoticism;
• first-class beaches;
• ample opportunities for, and even, surprisingly, ski holidays;
• the world's largest shopping centers and malls.

So, let's see what the name of each of the seven emirates that make up the UAE means for tourists.

Abu Dhabi - main emirate

It is the largest and richest emirate in the country. It occupies 66% of the UAE's territory, with an area of ​​67,340 sq. km and a population of more than 2 million people. Oil production is the backbone of the local economy. Description of the main emirate of the UAE:

Dubai is the most popular emirate

Mostly lovers of shopping and active entertainment rest here, since there are plenty of them here. Uninformed tourists sometimes mistakenly call Dubai the capital of the emirates, and it is not surprising: despite its modest size, this emirate of the UAE is the most lively one, it can be seen even from the photo. Here's what sets it apart from others:

Sharjah is the strictest emirate in the UAE

The third largest emirate of the country, it is the only one that is washed simultaneously by the waters of both the Oman and the Persian Gulfs. This is a very popular tourist place where people come for impressions of the exotic of the East. The main features of the emirate are:

Fujairah is the most picturesque emirate

Its pride is the golden sandy beaches of the Indian Ocean, where wealthy tourists from the West like to relax. Fujairah differs in many ways from other emirates:

Ajman is the smallest emirate

It occupies about 0.3% of the country's territory. Of all the emirates, only Ajman has no oil deposits. The nature of the emirate is very picturesque: tourists are surrounded by white beaches and tall palm trees. In Ajman, they are engaged in the production of pearls and sea vessels. Basic information about this small and cozy emirate:

Ras al-Khaimah is the northernmost emirate

And besides, the most fertile: lush vegetation strikingly distinguishes it from the desert landscapes of other emirates. The mountains here come close to the coast, which looks very picturesque. So, what is this emirate famous for:

Umm al-Qaiwain is the poorest emirate in the UAE

This part of the country is underdeveloped and sparsely populated. They are mainly engaged in agriculture - they grow dates. It is a quiet and perhaps the least popular emirate:

The content of the article

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (UAE)(Arab. Al-Amirat al-Arabiya al-Muttahida), a federal state in South-West Asia, in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula, on the coast of the Persian and Oman Gulfs. In the north it borders with Qatar, in the south and southwest with Saudi Arabia, in the northeast and southeast with Oman. In the north it is washed by the waters of the Persian Gulf, in the east - by the Gulf of Oman. The total length of the border is 867 km, the coastline is 1318 km. The UAE includes the emirates: Abu Dhabi (Abu Zabi; area 67 350 sq. Km, or 87% of the country's territory), Dubai (Dibai; 3900 sq. Km, or 5%), Sharjah (2600 sq. Km, or 3.3%), Ajman (259 sq. Km, or 0.3%), Ras al-Khaimah (1,700 sq. Km, or 2.2%), Umm al-Qaiwain (750 sq. Km, or 1%), Fujairah (1150 sq. Km, or 1.5%). Land boundaries run across deserts and are not clearly defined. Total area - approx. 83 600 sq. km (including the islands of Abu Musa, Big and Small Tomb). Population - about 3.13 million people, incl. 2.05 million non-citizens (2002) The capital is Abu Dhabi (420 thousand).

NATURE

Relief.

Most of the territory of the UAE is occupied by salt marshes and sandy deserts, in the west there are sandy and stony deserts, in the east and northeast - the Hajar mountains (the highest point is the city of Adan, 1127 m). The highest point in the country is Mount Jabal Yibir (1527 m). To the east of El Udaid Bay, located at the base of the Qatar Peninsula, there are moving sand dunes and flat, barren salt marshes along the coast. The shores are mostly low, the coast is indented with small bays, framed by islets and coral reefs protruding above the surface of shallow waters.

The main minerals are oil and natural gas. Oil reserves are estimated at 12,330 million tons (about 10% of world reserves). The main oil fields in Abu Dhabi are Asab, Beb, Bu Hasa, Al-Zakum, in Dubai - Fallah, Fateh, South-West Fateh, Margham, in Sharjah - Mubarak. Natural gas reserves amount to 5794 billion cubic meters. m. In terms of natural gas reserves, the UAE occupies the 4th place in the world after Russia, Iran and Qatar. There are also deposits of uranium, chromium and nickel ores and bauxite.

Climate

dry, transitional from tropical to subtropical. The air temperature from November to May ranges from 18 to 25 ° С, from June to August - from 30 to 35 ° С (maximum up to 50 ° С), average monthly temperatures range from 20 ° to 35 ° С.Summer, with the exception of mountainous regions , very hot, in winter the weather becomes cooler. Precipitation falls approx. 100 mm, in the mountains 300–400 mm per year (maximum in winter). Occasionally there are heavy rainfalls that cause great damage, eroding roads and interrupting communications. There are no permanent rivers, temporary streams flow through the valleys, most of the year they are dry channels - wadis. Sources of fresh water along the flat coast of the Persian Gulf are few and far between. There is no agriculture west of Abu Dhabi. Intensive water withdrawal from underground sources has led to a significant decrease in the level of groundwater and their salinization.

Vegetation and fauna.

On the western slopes of the mountains there are large oases with vineyards, date palm, acacias, tamarisk trees; grain crops, mangoes, bananas, lemons, and tobacco are also cultivated. In the mountains there is savanna-type vegetation. In desert areas, there are hares, jerboas, gazelles, one-humped Arabian camels, some species of lizards and snakes. The coastal waters of the Persian Gulf are rich in fish (sardines, herring, etc.) and pearls.

POPULATION

Demography.

From 1968 to 2003, the country's population increased 20 times, primarily due to the influx of foreign labor. In 2003, the total population of the UAE was 3.75 million people, incl. Abu Dhabi (1,186 thousand people, or 39% of the population, in 2000), Dubai (913 thousand people, or 28%), Sharjah (520 thousand), Ajman (174 thousand), Ras al- Khaimah (171 thousand), Umm al-Qaiwain (46 thousand), Fujairah (98 thousand). As a result of immigration, there are serious disparities in the sex structure of the population. Women now make up approximately 33% of the population, as many workers choose to come to the UAE without their families. In the 1990s, the natural movement of the population was characterized by high birth rates and low mortality rates. The average annual population growth in 1990-1995 was 5.3%, in 2003 - 1.57% (with a birth rate of 18.48, a death rate of 4.02 per 1000 people). The average life expectancy is 74 years (72 years for men, 77 years for women).

Ethnic groups.

About 80% of the population is from other countries. In 2000, ethnic Arabs accounted for 48.1% of the total population (of which Arabs in the UAE - 12.2%, Bedouins - 9.4%, Egyptian Arabs - 6.2%, Omani Arabs - 4.1%, Saudi Arabs - 4% ), South Asians 35.7%, Iranians 5%, Filipinos 3.4%, Europeans 2.4%, others 5.4%. The number of UAE citizens, according to various estimates, in recent decades does not exceed 25% of the population. At the same time, the most numerous ethnic groups are (as of 2003) immigrants from India (about 30%, or 1.2 million) and Pakistani (about 20%).

Work force.

The economically active population is 1.6 million. (2000), of which 73.9% is foreign labor (2002). About 78% are employed in the service sector, 15% in industry, 7% in agriculture (2000). In general, since the end of the 1990s, there has been a tendency towards a decrease in the number of people employed in industry and agriculture. Foreign workers from India and Pakistan play the most significant role in the local economy. Since 2002, the government has been taking measures to “emirate personnel” (it should be noted that a very small number of local residents work in the industrial sector). Within the framework of personnel reforms, it is envisaged that up to 90% of government institutions, 80% of economic and financial organizations, and 60% of the judiciary will be staffed by UAE nationals. At the same time, the struggle to restrict the inflow of foreign labor is intensifying. In 1996, within the framework of the amnesty announced to illegal immigrants and foreign citizens with expired visas and documents, 150 thousand people left the country; during the amnesty in 2003, approx. 80 thousand people Unemployment in 1996 reached 2.6%.

Urbanization.

Most of the population is concentrated on the coast and in the oases. Citizens make up 84% of the country's population (1996). In the interior desert regions, there is a very rare nomadic, semi-nomadic and sedentary indigenous Arab population (Emirati Arabs, Bedouins), preserving the tribal division. The largest tribes among nomads and semi-nomads are Beni Kitab, among the sedentary population are Avamir, Beni Hajir, Beni Mura, Beniyaz, Dawasir, Qawasim, Menasir, Naim, Nami, Shamis. Largest cities: Dubai (710 thousand), Abu Dhabi (928 thousand), Sharjah (325 thousand), Al-Ain (240 thousand), Ajman (120 thousand), Ras al-Khaimah (80 thousand .). Average density - 38 people / sq. km (2003); the average density in the emirates is: in Abu Dhabi - 12.7 people / sq. km, Umm al-Qaywain - 45.1 people / sq. km, Fujairah - 58.7 people / sq. km, Ras al-Khaimah - 84.9 people / sq. km, Sharjah - 154 people / sq. km, Dubai - 172.8 people / sq. km, Ajman - 456.9 people / sq. km (1996).

Language.

The state language is Arabic (native only for 40% of the population). The dialect of local residents is as close as possible to classical Arabic, with small intersperses of Bedouin words and expressions. The most spoken languages ​​in immigrant communities are Hindi and Urdu, as well as Malay (13%), Balochi (8%), Pashto (6%), Farsi (5%), Telugu (5%), Somali (4%), Bengali (3%). Most residents speak spoken English.

Religion.

The state religion is Islam, mainly of the Sunni persuasion. Muslims make up 96% of believers (approx. 16% of the population - Shiites, living mainly in Dubai); Christians, Hindus, etc. - c. 4% (1995). According to the law, the spread of other religions and the conversion of Muslims to another faith are prohibited, which is punishable by a sentence of imprisonment for a term of 5 to 10 years. The Muslim (Lunar Hijri) and Gregorian calendars are used.

POLITICAL SYSTEM

Federal authorities.

The UAE is a federal state. Each of the federated emirates is an absolute monarchy and retains significant independence. Federal authorities consist of: the Federal High Council, the head of state and his deputy, the Council of Ministers, the Federal National Assembly, the Supreme Federal Court.

According to the 1971 constitution (amended in 1976; provisional until 1996), the highest organ of state power is the Federal Supreme Council (FVS), consisting of the rulers of the seven emirates. The Council meets 4 times a year and has broad powers. In its exclusive jurisdiction, the ratification of international treaties and agreements; introduction and lifting of a state of emergency; declaration of war; appointing the president and members of the Federal Supreme Court. In addition, the Supreme Council determines the general federal policy and exercises supreme control over the affairs of the federation; approves federal legislation; appointing the President, Vice President, Chairman of the Council of Ministers, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and its members and accepting the resignation of each of them. On all decisions taken, except for procedural issues, a majority of 5 votes is required in the High Council, subject to the consent of the rulers of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, who have the right to veto.

Every 5 years, the Supreme Council elects the head of the federation and his deputy - the president and vice-president from among its members. The constitution gives the head of state broad legislative and executive powers. Exercising executive power through ministers, the president at the same time presides over the meetings of the FVS and has the right to veto any of its decisions. He can issue decrees and acts on any issues other than those under the exclusive competence of the FVS; appoint and remove the prime minister, his deputy and the cabinet of ministers. The head of state has the right (with the consent of the Supreme Council) to dissolve the national assembly. It issues federal laws and monitors the implementation by the Council of Ministers and individual ministers of federal laws, decrees and acts; approves death sentences, and also has the right to pardon and commute sentences.

The permanent president of the UAE (since 1971) is the ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed ibn Sultan Al Nahyan, the vice-president (since October 8, 1990) is the Emir of Dubai, Sheikh Maktoum ibn Rashid Al Maktoum (the last elections were held on December 2, 2001).

Executive power belongs to the Council of Ministers (consists of 21 ministers and one deputy prime minister), appointed by the head of state. The Council of Ministers directly directs all internal and external affairs of the federation under the supervision of the head of state and the Federal Supreme Assembly. The Council of Ministers can issue laws in all areas of ordinary jurisdiction, except for cases concerning the ratification of international treaties and agreements, the imposition or lifting of martial law, the declaration of war, etc.

Since 1990, the post of prime minister has been held by the ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Maktoum ibn Rashid Al Maktoum, and the first deputy prime minister is Sultan ibn Zayed Al Nahyan.

Role advisory body belongs to the unicameral Federal National Assembly (FNS, Majlis al-Ittihad al-Watani). It consists of 40 representatives appointed by the rulers of the emirates for 2 years: 8 deputies each from Abu Dhabi and Dubai (with the right of veto), 6 each from Sharjah and Ras al-Khaimah, 4 each from Ajman, Umm al -Kaiwain and Fujairah. There is no electoral legislation, each emirate independently determines the method of electing deputies to parliament. From among its members, the FTS elects the Presidium and the Chairman of the National Assembly. Currently, the chairman of the FTS is a deputy from the emirate of Abu Dhabi Al-Hajj Abdullah Al Moheirabi.

The National Assembly has neither only legislative power, but even legislative initiative. The FTS has the right only to consider bills prepared by the Council of Ministers, propose amendments to them and even reject them, but the decisions of the meeting have no legal force. It has the right to discuss any issues, provided that the Council of Ministers does not consider the discussion of this issue to be contrary to the highest interests of the federal state. In addition, the National Assembly can make recommendations, which are also non-binding and can be rejected by the Council of Ministers.

Constitution guarantees independence judiciary... The federal judiciary has existed since 1971; all emirates joined it, with the exception of Dubai and Ras al-Khaimah. All emirates have secular and Islamic (Sharia) legislation for civil, criminal and high courts. The highest body of the judiciary is the Federal Supreme Court (composed of 6 members), whose judges are appointed by the President.

Local authorities.

In parallel with federal institutions, each of the emirates has its own governing bodies.

Emirates are headed by hereditary monarchs (sheikhs or emirs). Power usually passes through the male line to the eldest son of the ruler, but the ruler can appoint another senior relative from the given dynasty as the heir. Each ruler has supreme legislative and executive power and directly conducts all internal and external affairs that are not within the competence of the federal authorities.

The largest and most populous emirate, Abu Dhabi has its own government, which is formed on the same principle as the federal government and is headed by Crown Prince Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed al Nahyan.

The advisory functions are vested in the National Advisory Council, which has the same powers as the Federal National Assembly. It has 60 members representing the main tribes and influential families of the emirate.

Various administrative functions in all emirates are carried out by many local departments (police and security, public works, health, education, water and electricity, finance, customs, etc.). Some of the departments are subordinate to federal ministries. The broadest administrative system is established in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. It covers almost all spheres of life in these emirates.

There is no official territorial division in the emirates. Only Abu Dhabi is administratively divided into three districts. Along with this, there is a system of representatives of the ruler in Abu Dhabi. Currently, there are five such representatives: in the Eastern and Western regions, on Das Island, where an important oil terminal is located, and others.

Currently, there are municipalities in all the capitals of the emirates, as well as in the cities of Al Ain (Abu Dhabi), For Fakkan and Kalba (Sharjah). All municipalities are headed by members of the ruling dynasties. In the capitals of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras al-Khaimah and Fujairah, municipal councils have been established under the municipalities, including various departments. Their members are also appointed by the rulers. The functions of municipalities include issues of local governance (organization of water and electricity supply, improvement of streets, etc.).

In small and remote settlements, the ruler and government of each emirate can appoint a local representative, emir or wali, through which residents can turn to the government with their own requests. In most cases, local tribal chiefs are appointed as local representatives of the emir.

Political parties.

There is no organized opposition, the activities of political parties and trade unions are prohibited. The majority of the non-Emirati Arab population has neither civil nor political rights. Organizations such as Human Rights Watch are trying to convince the government of the need for legislative reforms.

Foreign policy.

The UAE is a member of the UN, the League of Arab States, the Non-Aligned Movement, the Organization of the Islamic Conference, etc. Since its inception, the UAE officially entered the group of non-aligned countries and acted in it from a position of "absolute neutrality", which allowed them to maintain "equidistance" from West and East ... In matters of a Middle East settlement, the UAE stands for the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from all occupied Arab territories. They also demand that all the legal rights of the Arab people of Palestine be guaranteed, incl. his right to create his own state. With regard to the Iran-Iraq war, the UAE supported Iraq, providing it with material and moral assistance, and at the same time maintained economic ties with Iran. Great importance is attached to participation in the Cooperation Council of the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC), in which the UAE sees an effective mechanism for ensuring regional stability and cooperation.

Territorial disputes.

In 1999, a border agreement was signed with Oman, but the final definition of the border between the two countries was postponed until 2002. Some sections of the border between the emirates of Ras al-Khaimah and Sharjah, including the Musandam peninsula, remain undefined. The status of the UAE's border with Saudi Arabia has not been finally established (the details of the 1974 and 1977 agreements were not made public). The conflict with Iran continues over the islands of Abu Musa, Big and Small Tomb, occupied by Iranian troops in November 1971. In 2000, Tehran declared the islands an integral part of its territory, and the question of them was closed.

Military establishment.

The united armed forces of the UAE were created in 1976, but in 1978 the armed forces of Dubai and Ras al-Khaimah left their structure (the latter later returned back). Dubai still retains significant military independence.

The national armed forces are composed of ground forces, air forces, and naval forces. The Supreme Commander-in-Chief is the head of state; the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff exercise direct control of the armed forces. The Ministry of Defense is located in Dubai, the General Staff is in Abu Dhabi. The UAE Defense Minister is Crown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed Ibn Rashid Al Maktoum.

The total strength of the armed forces is approx. 65 K people (2000). The ground forces (59 thousand people, including 12-15 thousand of the Emirate of Dubai) have 2 armored, 2 motorized infantry, 2 infantry, artillery brigades, 2 consolidated brigades (Dubai) and a brigade of the royal guard. In service with 487 tanks, 620 armored personnel carriers, 615 infantry fighting vehicles, as well as missiles and artillery installations. The Air Force (4 thousand people) includes 10 air squadrons, is armed with 108 combat aircraft, 42 helicopters and up to 80 military transport aircraft and helicopters. The Navy (2.4 thousand people, including 200 officers) consists of units of combat and auxiliary ships. They are armed with 27 ships. The main naval bases are Dalma, Mina Zayed (Abu Dhabi), Mina Khalid, Khor Fakan, Tauvella (Sharjah). Recruitment is carried out on a voluntary basis, with the number of foreign volunteers reaching 30% of the total number of the armed forces.

In addition to the regular armed forces, there is also a coast guard and a naval police force - 1200 people. (including 110 officers). Internal security and police functions are carried out by the Federal Police Force (about 6 thousand people) and the National Guard (about 4 thousand people). Each emirate has its own National Guard.

The UAE purchases the most modern weapons, mainly of Western production; in the 1990s, a number of large contracts were signed with Russia. In March 2000, one of the largest arms purchase deals in the history of the world took place: the UAE purchased 80 F-16 jet fighters from Lockheed Martin for $ 8 million. The UAE's defense spending remains one of the highest in the Gulf region. All R. In the 1990s, they reached $ 2 billion, in 1999 - 3.8 billion, in 2000 - 3.9 billion, in 2002 - St. 4 billion

ECONOMY

The UAE has an open economy with high per capita income and significant annual surplus. Since 1973, the UAE has evolved from the poorest region of small desert principalities to a modern state with a high standard of living. The largest of the emirates, Abu Dhabi, accounts for 90% of oil and gas production and 60% of the UAE's GDP. Due to the smaller reserves of oil and gas, Dubai has become a trade, commercial and transportation center. Sharjah's main focus is light industry and the development of port communications. The rest of the emirates (known as the northern emirates) are considered poorer than others and together account for only 6.6% of GDP (1996). In 2002, the UAE's GDP reached $ 53 billion. Average annual income per capita increased from $ 9635 (1996) to $ 22 thousand (2002).

The UAE leadership plans to further diversify the economy, which today is mainly focused on oil. Analysis of the data shows that the share of non-oil sectors in GDP increased from 36.73% in 1980 to 77.64% in 1998, while the share of the manufacturing sector rose from 3.76% in 1980 to 12.4% in 1998. And yet the share of oil in the country's GDP remains quite high.

Oil and gas.

The UAE has huge oil reserves (97.8 billion barrels, or 10% of the world's reserves). At the current level of production, oil and gas reserves should be sufficient until the beginning of the 22nd century. The country's wealth is based on the export of oil and gas (approx. 33% of GDP) and depends on price fluctuations for these products. Oil production on the shelf off the coast of Abu Dhabi has been going on since 1962, on the mainland of Abu Dhabi since 1963. In 1995, the UAE produced an average of 290 thousand tons per day, while Abu Dhabi accounted for 83%, Dubai - 15%, Sharjah - 2%. Abu Dhabi ranks third in terms of oil production in the Middle East (after Saudi Arabia and Iran). In Dubai, the main business center of the UAE, the economic boom associated with oil production began even before it was even produced (1969). Small amounts of oil are also produced in Sharjah and Ras al-Khaimah. The UAE's oil production quotas are set by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), but the UAE has not always adhered to these limits. For example, in 1990, during the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, oil production in the country exceeded twice the quota. The UAE also has rich natural gas deposits. Its reserves are approx. 5.3 billion cubic meters m (3.8% of world reserves), according to this indicator, the UAE ranks third in the Middle East.

Industry.

Other important sectors of the economy, in addition to oil and gas production, are manufacturing, oil refining, shipbuilding and ship repair. In addition to petroleum products, the country produces steel, aluminum, fertilizers, cement, plastics, machinery and clothing, and handicrafts. Large gas processing enterprises are located in Ruweis, Jebel Ali, Das Island, Sharjah. The building materials industry is developing. 9 cement plants produce approx. 5 million tons of cement per year. There is an aluminum smelter with a capacity of 240 thousand tons per year.

The number of enterprises with more than 10 employees has almost tripled over 10 years (from 1990 to 1999): from 705 to 1859. Further examination of statistics shows that industrial production is concentrated in the cities: Dubai (678 out of 1859 enterprises ), Sharjah (581), Ajman and Abu Dhabi. The country's largest factories and factories operate in the capital.

Traditional handicrafts are developed - making carpets, woolen fabrics, chasing gold and silver items, mining pearls and corals.

The industry accounts for approx. 46% of GDP (2000). In 2000, industrial production increased by 4%.

Agriculture.

The UAE is a semi-arid country with little rainfall. Agriculture provides only 3% of GDP, it employs 7% of the working-age population (2000). The main branches of agriculture are fishing, agriculture and nomadic cattle breeding. The total area of ​​cultivated land is 54.5 thousand hectares (1994). The main areas for the development of agriculture are the eastern part of Ras al-Khaimah and Abu Dhabi, northeastern Sharjah, and part of the coast of the Gulf of Oman. Dates and vegetables are mainly grown. Efforts are being made to achieve self-sufficiency in grain, but this is hampered by a lack of fresh water. Poultry and cattle are raised. Nomads breed sheep, goats and camels. Basic food needs are met through imports.

Transport.

The transportation network has been significantly improved due to large revenues from oil exports. There are no railways in the UAE, domestic transportation is mainly provided by road. All emirates are connected by four-lane highways. The main highway runs from Al Sham through all the major coastal cities to Qatar and Saudi Arabia. The total length of motor roads is 2,000 km, incl. 1,800 km have been paved since 1993. Dubai is the main regional and international hub for maritime and air travel. Most of the overseas traffic is carried out by sea. Own sea transport is underdeveloped. The merchant fleet includes 56 vessels (2002). A significant amount of cargo is transported on foreign ships. The most important ports of the UAE are Jabel Api (since 1988) and Port Rashid (in Dubai), Zayed (in Abu Dhabi), Fujairah. The emirate of Dubai has the world's largest dry dock, designed to repair tankers with a displacement of up to 1 million tons. There are 6 international airports - in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras al-Khaimah, Al-Ain, Al-Fujairah. About 11 million people used the services of Dubai International Airport in 1999. In total, the country has 40 airports for various purposes (1999). The length of oil pipelines - 830 km, gas pipelines - 870 km.

Free economic zones.

With the aim of attracting foreign capital in 1985, a free economic zone (FEZ) was created in the emirate of Dubai near the port of Jebel Ali, in which 2,300 companies operate, 1/4 of which are small and medium-sized industrial companies. Main specialization: trade operations (74%), industry (22%), services (4%). The successful Jebel Ali experiment pushed the UAE governments to create new free economic zones. Currently, there are nine FEZs in the UAE, more than in any other Arab country. According to available data, the percentage of industrial projects to the total number of projects implemented in the FEZ is: in Sharjah - 17.7%, Fujairah - 39.8%, Ajman - 41.3%, Umm al-Qaiwain - 100%.

Trade.

Exports of the UAE are represented mainly by oil and oil products (45%). Total exports grew $ 22.6 billion (1993) to $ 44.9 billion (2002). Besides oil, important export items are liquefied gas, aluminum, fertilizers, cement, fresh and dried fish, dates, and pearls. Major exporting countries: Japan (29.1%), South Korea (10.2%), India (5.4%), Oman (3.7%), Singapore (3.1%), Iran (2, 2%) (2001). The UAE imports machinery and equipment, vehicles, electronic equipment and household appliances, finished goods, foodstuffs, chemicals, synthetic materials, metal products. The volume of imports in 1999 amounted to $ 27.5 billion, in 2002 - $ 30.8 billion.Main trading partners: USA (6.7%), Germany (6.6%), Japan (6.5%) , France (6.3%), China (6.1%), Great Britain (5.9%), South Korea (5.5%) (2001). Traders in the UAE, especially the Emirate of Dubai, are heavily involved in re-export trade.

The national currency is the dirham (AED) = 100 fils (since May 1973).

SOCIETY

Health care and social services.

The establishment of the healthcare system dates back to 1943, when the first hospital was opened in Dubai. In 1971, a network of medical institutions existed in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras al-Khaimah and Dibba. Since the formation of the UAE, the health care system has been characterized by rapid growth but lack of coordination. By the early 1990s, health cooperation between the emirates had increased, but oil companies and the military still have their own medical facilities. The health care system offers free services to all citizens; in 1982, in response to declining oil export revenues, the government introduced paid services for non-citizens, except in emergencies. In 1995, 15,361 employees were employed in the health care system, incl. OK. 3 thousand UAE citizens; doctors - 3803, incl. 1839 in the private sector. In 1995, there were 1227 people for every doctor, and 454 for every nurse. In 1986, there were 40 hospitals (with 3,900 beds) and 119 clinics in the country, in 1995 - 51 hospitals (with 6,357 beds). During the period of health care reforms, infant mortality fell from 145 per 1,000 births in 1960 to 15.58 in 2000. In 1985, health workers attended 96% of births. Life expectancy increased from 53 years in 1960 to 74.75 years in 2003. The main causes of death recorded in Abu Dhabi in 1989 per 100,000 population were: accidents and poisoning - 43.7%; cardiovascular diseases - 34.3%; cancer - 13.7%; respiratory tract diseases - 8.1%. As of December 1990, there were 8 cases of HIV infection.

There is an extensive social safety net in the country, which includes family centers aimed at solving internal problems and training women in housekeeping skills. There is psychological assistance for disadvantaged youth; provision of assistance to victims of epidemics and disasters. Widows, orphans, the elderly, the disabled and others who are unable to support themselves receive social benefits. In 1975, almost 24,000 citizens received 87.7 million dirhams as part of social assistance; in 1982 about 121,000 people received 275 million dirhams. Other social benefits provided to citizens of the UAE: free housing and subsidies for the arrangement of an apartment. However, the Department of Public Works and Housing reported in 1992 that 70% of the 15,000 government-built low-income homes were found to be unfit for habitation.

Education.

The first private schools in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah were opened in the early 1900s. In the sheikhs and sultanates, there were small study groups at the mosques. In the 1920s and 1930s, as a result of the economic crisis, most schools were closed. Secular elementary schools began to appear in the 1950s. The first British school with teachers from Arab countries was opened in Sharjah in 1953, there were 450 boys aged from 6 to 17 years old. The first girls' primary school was soon established in Sharjah. The British government opened schools in Abu Dhabi, Ras al-Khaimah and Hawr Fakkan, founded an agricultural school in Ras al-Khaimah in 1955 and a technical school in Sharjah in 1958. Since 1958, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and Egypt have allocated large funds for the construction of schools and salaries for teachers. The first private education system was established in Abu Dhabi in the early 1960s. By the 1964-1965 academic year, there were 6 schools here, where 390 boys and 138 girls studied. In other emirates, 31 schools operated, incl. 12 schools for girls.

After the creation of the UAE, education problems became one of the priorities in government programs. In the period 1971-1978, education spending ranked second in the federal budget after defense. The law provides for compulsory secondary education for UAE nationals. The education system includes: preschool institutions for children from 4 to 6 years old, primary schools (6 years of study), incomplete secondary schools (3 years of study) and upper secondary schools (3 years of study). Education is separate, in some primary schools joint education is carried out. In rural areas, primary school education lasts no more than 2-3 years. In the 1973-1974 academic year, there were about 140 schools, which enrolled about 50 thousand students, incl. 32 thousand in primary schools, 14 thousand in incomplete secondary schools, 3 thousand in complete secondary schools. In the 1990-1991 academic year, there were about 760 schools with about 338 thousand students, incl. 49 thousand in preschool institutions, 227 thousand in primary schools and 111 thousand in secondary schools. In the 1995-1996 academic year, 1,132 schools operated in the country, enrolling 422,000 students (1994-1995). A third of the students attended private or religious schools.

Vocational training is provided in commercial and agricultural schools, as well as at training centers for the oil industry in Abu Dhabi. In the 1996-1997 academic year, 1925 people studied at 7 vocational schools and centers.

Higher education, both primary and secondary, is free for all UAE citizens. Major higher educational institutions: University of the United Arab Emirates at Al Ain (founded in 1977; over 15 thousand students); Higher Technological Colleges in Abu Dhabi (founded 1988), Al Ain (founded 1988), Dubai (founded 1989) and Ras Al Khaimah (founded 1989); Etisalat College of Engineering, Sharjah; Ajman University of Science and Technology (founded in 1988); Sharjah University (founded in 1997); American University of Sharjah (founded in 1997); Al-Bayan University (founded in 1997; the first private university in Abu Dhabi); Dubai Aviation College (founded 1991-1992). Many UAE citizens receive higher education in the USA, Great Britain, and other Arab countries.

In addition to educational institutions for children and adolescents, there is a network of educational institutions for untrained adults. The number of adult education centers increased from 54 (in 1972) to 139 (in 1996-1997), where 18,000 students were enrolled. In 1993, the number of illiterate people dropped to 16.8% compared to 79% in 1968. According to UN estimates, the number of the literate population in 2003 was 77.9% (76.1% of men, 81.7% of women).

Press, radio, television, internet.

The media operating in the country, subject to loyalty to the ruling dynasties and the government, enjoy relative freedom. 5 daily newspapers in Arabic are published in the country: Akhbar Dubai (since 1965), Al-Bayan (Dubai, since 1980, circulation 35 thousand), Al-Wahda (Abu Dhabi, since 1973, circulation 15 thousand), "Al-Ittihad" (Abu Dhabi, since 1972, circulation 58 thousand), "Al-Khalej" (in the principality of Sharjah, since 1970, circulation 58 thousand); 4 newspapers in English: Gulf News (Abu Dhabi, circulation 24.5 thousand), Rikorder (Abu Dhabi and Sharjah), Trade and Industry (Abu Dhabi, since 1975, circulation 9 thousand) , Emirates News (Abu Dhabi). The UAE News Agency (VAM, founded in 1976) is located in Abu Dhabi. The government's radio and television service is located in Dubai. Radio broadcasting from ser. 1960s, there are currently 22 radio stations in operation (1998). Television since 1968, there are 15 television stations (1997). The only Internet Provider, Etisalat, operates. The number of Internet users is over 300 thousand (as of 2002).

HISTORY

From ancient times to the beginning of modern times.

According to the latest archaeological finds, the first traces of human presence in this region date back to 7000 BC. In 5 thousand BC. among the peoples inhabiting these areas, agriculture became widespread. In 4 thousand BC. the coast of the gulf becomes an important trading point on the route of sea vessels between the Sumerian civilization of Mesopotamia and ancient India. In the 3rd millennium BC. in the east of the Arabian Peninsula, the ancient state of Dilmun arose, which existed up to 2–1 thousand BC. The creation of the first settlements and trading posts of the Phoenicians on the coast dates back to the same period, which contributed to the development of navigation, the formation of trade centers and colonies. In the 6th century. BC. the territory of the modern UAE came under the rule of the Achaemenid Persian dynasty. In the 4th century. BC. As a result of the conquests of Alexander the Great, Greek trading colonies arose here. Starting from the 3rd century. BC. the territory of the southeastern coast was in the sphere of influence of the Parthian kingdom. This period also includes the migration of Arab tribes from the south and from the center of the Arabian Peninsula to the Persian Gulf region. After the fall of the Parthian kingdom in the 3rd and 6th centuries. AD the peoples who inhabited the coast became part of the Sassanid state; Persian agricultural colonies were created in the country, Judaism and Christianity spread among the local population; there were Christian churches and monasteries. In the 7th century. this territory was included in the Arab Caliphate; such large cities as Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah arose; Islam became the dominant religion. In the end. 7 c. the bay area became part of the Umayyad Caliphate. In the middle of the 8th century. the population of the country (in particular, the principalities of Sharjah and Dubai) participated in the uprising of the tribes of Oman against the governor of the Umayyad Caliph; as a result, in the middle of the 8th and 9th centuries. the principalities (emirates) were ruled by virtually independent rulers. At the end of the 9th century. they became tributaries of the Baghdat Caliphate. In the 10th century. individual principalities became part of the state of the Carmatians, the Muslim Shiite sect of the Ismailis, which existed until the end of the 11th century. In the beginning. 13th century most of the local rulers (in particular, Umm al-Qaywain, Ras al-Khaimah and Fujairah) were in vassal dependence on the Hormuz state.

From the beginning of the 16th century to the middle of the 19th century.

After the opening of the sea route to India (1498), the Persian Gulf region became the most important point of European influence in the region. From the beginning of the 16th century. and until the middle of the 17th century. part of the coast of the Persian and Hormuz Gulfs was ruled by the Portuguese, who established a monopoly on all trade between the Far East, India and Southeast Asia. The main rival of Portugal was the Ottoman Empire, which incited Arab tribes to revolt against the Portuguese invaders. However, the Persian Gulf soon became the object of a struggle between England, France, the Netherlands, Persia and Oman. After the displacement of the Portuguese in the middle. 17th century on the territory of the modern UAE and Oman, the state of Yaruba was founded, which extended its influence to the northeastern and western coasts of the Arabian Peninsula and East Africa.

In the 2nd floor. 18th century control over the southeastern coast of the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz was seized by the al-Qawasim tribal confederation; their power extended to the sheikhs of Ras al-Khaimah and Sharjah, the Musandam Peninsula, as well as the southwestern coast of Iran and some islands in the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz. With a sufficiently strong fleet, the al-Qawasim established full naval control over navigation.

In the second half of the 18th century. Oman, especially its coastal regions, became the object of a struggle first between Great Britain (represented by the East India Company) and France, and then the Wahhabi rulers of Central Arabia. In 1798, an agreement was signed between representatives of the East India Company and the Sultan of Muscat, who also sought to establish control over this part of Arabia, which marked the beginning of British expansion. British ships under the slogan of "free navigation" tried to monopolize cargo flows between the ports of the Persian Gulf and deprive local residents of their main source of livelihood. This led to conflicts between the East India Company and the local Arab population (the British called him pirates, in connection with which the entire area received the name "Pirate Coast"). The main opponents of the East India Company were al-Kawasim, who at that moment fell under the influence of Wahhabism. Al-Qawasim's attacks on separate military and merchant ships were used by England as a pretext for starting a war.

In 1801, under the slogan of fighting piracy and the slave trade, the warships of the East India Company blocked the coast of the Persian Gulf and attacked Arab merchant ships. In 1800–1803 and 1805–1806, the British and their ally, the Sultan of Muscat, fought with varying success against the tribes of the Pirate Coast.

In 1806, the East India Company imposed a treaty on the al-Qawasim sheikhs, according to which the latter pledged to respect the company's flag and property. However, in fact, the agreement was not respected.

In 1809, the military forces of the East India Company resumed hostilities, destroying a significant part of the Wahhabi fleet (more than 100 ships) and shelling the Ras al-Khaimah fortress from the sea. However, already in 1814 the Wahhabis again seized control of the sea routes and for the next two years they blocked the approaches to the Persian Gulf.

Taking advantage of the defeat of the Wahhabis on land, the British sent in 1818 a new squadron to the "Pirate Coast" with the goal of putting an end to piracy once and for all. On December 9, 1819, they stormed the fortress of Ras al-Khaimah. All Arab-owned ships, including fishing boats, were burned. The defeat forced the emirs and sheikhs of 9 Arab principalities to sign the so-called. "General Peace Treaty" (January 8 - March 15, 1820), which proclaimed "freedom of navigation" in the Persian Gulf and ordered to stop pirate attacks on British ships, as well as the practice of slavery and the slave trade. England received the right to unrestricted domination in the waters of the Persian and Oman Gulfs; it recognized the right to supervise navigation and control the ships of local rulers. In fact, this agreement marked the beginning of the establishment of British control over this territory and the final dismemberment of Oman into 3 parts - the Imamate of Oman, the Sultanate of Muscat and the "Pirate Coast".

In 1821, the fleet of England and Muscat inflicted another defeat on the sheikhs of the Persian Gulf, who did not join General Peace Treaty.

Despite the agreement, the attacks of the sheikhs on each other continued. In an effort to control dynastic and tribal strife, the British imposed a new agreement on the coastal tribes. In 1835, between representatives of the East India Company and local rulers, the so-called. First maritime agreement on an armistice for six months (this agreement was subsequently renewed annually) for the season of pearl fishing, which was then the main source of income for the sheikhs.

In 1838, after several unsuccessful attempts to end the slave trade in the area, the British decided to take full control of the Pirate Coast, Oman, Muscat, Bahrain and Kuwait and establish a permanent presence of their warships in the Gulf. In 1839 Great Britain and Muscat signed an agreement on joint action against piracy and the slave trade, to which the sheikhs of the Pirate Coast were annexed in the same year.

In 1843 England imposed a new agreement on the rulers of the Pirate Coast, which extended the term of the First Naval Agreement (1835) by 10 years. In accordance with it, the sheikhs were obliged to obey any decisions of the representatives of the East India Company, acting on behalf of the British authorities. Failure to comply or violation of them was considered a violation of the "First Maritime Agreement".

In 1847, in addition to the 1835 agreement, a treaty was signed that significantly expanded the prerogatives of Great Britain in the Persian Gulf. This agreement granted the East India Company the right to search merchant ships suspected of piracy and the slave trade. He blamed the sheikhs who signed the treaty for violating the prohibition of the slave trade, and also authorized the representatives of the East India Company to act as arbitrators in conflicts between local rulers. Economically, the treaty gave Great Britain a number of benefits and the right to exploit the pearl shallows of Bahrain and the "Pirate Coast".

Negotiated Oman.

With the defeat of the Wahhabis, who tried to regain control of the Persian Gulf in 1851-1852, England imposed a new agreement on the rulers of the emirates. In May 1853 the sheikhs of Ras al-Khaimah, Umm al-Qaiwain, Ajman, Dubai and Abu Dhabi signed the "Treaty on Permanent Maritime Peace." In accordance with it, the "Pirate Coast" was renamed to "Trucial Oman", or "Treaty Coast". England has taken on the responsibility of mediating land disputes and protecting the emirates from third-party attacks. The representative of the East India Company received the official right to punish all violators of the treaty, including sheikhs.

Under the agreement of 1869, the sheikhs of Treaty Oman pledged not to independently conclude agreements with third countries, not to grant them any privileges and not to lease the territory of their emirates without the consent of England.

In 1892, several more agreements were signed, leading to the establishment of a complete English protectorate over Treaty Oman. In 1898, in addition to this agreement, another treaty was signed, which prohibited the sheikhs of Treaty Oman from buying or selling weapons. British military bases were established on the territory of the sheikhs (in particular, on the territory of Sharjah, Dubai and Abu Dhabi). Political power was exercised by the British liaison officer for the Persian Gulf zone (headquartered in Sharjah), subordinate to the political resident, first in Bushehr (Iran), then in Bahrain.

At the beginning of the 20th century. the number of sheikhs changed. In September 1900, Ras al-Khaimah became part of Sharjah (from 1921 again an independent sheikhhood), at the same time, Fujairah split from Sharjah in 1902 (recognized in March 1952) and in 1903 - Kalba (recognized in 1936, in 1952 re-incorporated into Sharjah).

The main income for the Arab population during this period was still brought in by the pearl trade. In 1911, the British entered into an agreement obliging the rulers of the sheikhs not to grant anyone except England concessions for fishing pearls and sponges in their waters. By the beginning of the First World War, under the Anglo-Turkish Convention of 1913, England received the exclusive right to Treaty Oman, and in 1922 the British established their control over the right of the sheikhs to grant anyone a concession for the exploration and production of oil.

Until the early 1930s, British communications with the coast remained extremely limited. The expansion of the Wahhabi rulers of Najd further shook Britain's position in the region. In the hinterland, where British power was always nominal, the tribes tended to unite with the Wahhabis of Central Arabia. Only in 1932 the territory of the Treaty of Oman was needed by British Airways for the construction of intermediate airports (a rest house for passengers and crew in Sharjah) on the way between London and India.

In the late 1920s, an economic crisis erupted on the coast, caused by the appearance on the world market of Japanese cultured pearls.

The discovery of oil changed the strategic and economic importance of this remote corner of the British Empire. Fearing that the area might fall into the hands of competitors, the British urgently created the Petroleum Development of Trushill Coast company. In 1937 British oil companies received concessions for the production and exploration of oil in Dubai and Sharjah, in 1938 in Ras al-Khaimah and Kalba, and in 1939 in Abu Dhabi and Ajman.

Taking into account the increased weight of the Treaty Oman in the region, London began to develop a plan to unite the sheikhs under its control into a federal Arab state, which would also include Iraq, Transjordan and Palestine. The plans of England seriously alarmed the population of the emirates. Anti-feudal and anti-colonial demonstrations have become more frequent there. In Sharjah, it came to open clashes, during which an airfield built by the British was destroyed. Tribes bordering Muscat and Oman, arms in hand, obstructed cartographic surveys. Eventually London was forced to abandon the federation plan.

In 1938-1939 there was an unsuccessful attempt at political reform in Dubai. The ruling dynasty founded a Financial Council composed of the local nobility, which, however, tried to remove them from power. The Council was disbanded a year later.

During the Second World War, the Sheikhs of Treaty Oman adhered to a policy of neutrality, after the war their status was raised to emirates (principalities), at the same time the first steps were taken to integrate the emirates into the federation. In 1945 and 1950-1951, several meetings of the rulers of the emirates took place, at which the issues of uniting the police forces, the customs administration, and the monetary system were discussed. In 1951, a local military force was created to protect the personnel of oil companies, the so-called. "Scouts of the Treaty of Oman" (number - 1600 people, headed by British officers). In 1952, the foundations of the future federation were laid by the creation of two institutions - the Council of the Treaty States, headed by a British political agent in Dubai, and the Fund for the Development of the Treaty States.

At the same time, internal and external border conflicts continued, often caused by the economic interests of Western monopolies. In 1947-1949 there were clashes between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

The internal political situation in the 1940s and 1950s was complicated by the rivalry between British and American oil companies. Until the mid-1950s, the most acute subject of dispute between ARAMCO, Iraq Petroleum Company and Royal Dutch Shell was the oil-bearing lands of the Al-Buraimi oasis, claims to which from the 19th century. presented by the rulers of Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia and Oman. In 1949, search parties of the American oil company ARAMCO appeared here, acting in the interests of Saudi Arabia; in 1952, Saudi forces took control of Buraimi. Only in October 1955, after the failure of negotiations, the British-backed armed forces of Oman and Abu Dhabi again took possession of the oasis.

In 1953 Abu Dhabi granted an oil concession to the Anglo-French consortium. In 1958, here, in the town of Bab, located in the desert, large reserves of oil were discovered, and in 1962 its production and export began. In a few years, the humble emirate turned into a great oil-producing state in the Middle East. In 1966 oil fields were discovered in Dubai, and in 1973 - in Sharjah and other emirates.

The discovery of oil has aggravated the political situation in the country. In 1961-1963, an anti-imperialist movement developed in a number of emirates, supported by some representatives of the ruling circles. In 1962, the ruler of Sharjah gave the concession to the American oil company, which caused the discontent of official London. The ruler of Sharjah was followed by the sheikh of Ras al-Khaimah. In October 1964, bypassing the British authorities, the commission of the League of Arab States (LAS), with the consent of the rulers of Ras al-Khaimah and Sharjah, visited a number of points in Treaty Oman. In response to these steps, the ruler of Sharjah Sheikh Sakr III ibn Sultan al Qasimi (1925-1993) was arrested at the direction of the British authorities and was declared deposed; an attempt was made on the life of the ruler of Ras al-Khaimah, Sheikh Sakr ibn Muhammad al-Qasimi. In an effort to prevent further interference of the Arab League in the affairs of the Treaty of Oman, the British authorities held a meeting of 7 rulers of the sheikhs in Dubai in July 1965, at which a decision was made on the formation of the Council for Economic Development, and 15 major economic projects were considered that were supposed to contribute to the development of these territories. ... However, the demonstrations continued, capturing even the relatively prosperous Abu Dhabi in 1966. In response, a bloodless coup was organized in Abu Dhabi on August 6, 1966; As a result of the decision of the sheikhs of the Nahyan clan, who removed the ruling emir Sheikh Shakhbut, Sheikh Zayed ibn Sultan Al Nahyan (the current head of the UAE) came to power.

Until the middle of 1967, attempts continued to create a federation with its subsequent accession to the so-called. "Islamic Pact" (a bloc of countries led by Saudi Arabia).

Modern history of the UAE.

In 1968, the British government announced its intention to withdraw its troops from the region by the end of 1971 and transfer power to local rulers. In the face of complex economic and international problems, most of the sheikhs have favored the creation of an independent federation of sheikhs in East and Southeast Arabia. Formally, the initiators of the unification were Sheikhs Zayed ibn Sultan Al Nahyan (Abu Dhabi) and Rashid ibn Said Al Maktoum (Dubai), who signed the corresponding agreement on February 18, 1968. On February 25, 1968, at a meeting in Dubai, the heads of the 9 British Emirates of Mandate (the seven Emirates of Treaty Oman, Qatar and Bahrain) discussed for the first time the possibility of creating a unified federal state. On March 1, 1968, the creation (from March 30, 1968) of the Federation of the United Arab Emirates (FAE) was announced. According to the treaty, which entered into force on March 30, 1968, the Supreme Council, which included the rulers of all 9 emirates, was determined as the supreme body of the Federation; the latter were to take turns holding the post of chairman of the Council for a year. The creation of other bodies was postponed until the next meeting. However, these plans were not implemented due to the contradictions that arose between the rulers about the place and role of their emirates in the federation being created. As a result of the struggle of interests in the new association, two groups were formed, which were also influenced by neighboring states (Saudi Arabia, Iran and Kuwait). One of the groups included the rulers of the emirates of Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, Sharjah, Umm al-Qaiwain, Ajman and Bahrain. They were opposed by the rulers of Dubai, Ras al-Khaimah and Qatar. At the same time, the rulers of Qatar and Bahrain, having a more developed economy and surpassing the rest of the emirates in population, refused to recognize the equality of all members of the federation. As a result of disagreements, the FAE actually disintegrated by the end of 1969, without having time to take shape completely. An attempt to revive the project of the federation was made in March 1971, when the temporary creation of the Federation of the Arab Emirates (Treaty Oman together with Qatar and Bahrain) was re-announced. However, the unification did not take place. After the withdrawal of British troops in September 1971, Bahrain and Qatar declared themselves independent states.

After a meeting in Dubai on July 18, 1971, six of the seven emirates formed the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and signed an interim constitution. The seventh emirate, Ras al-Khaimah, refused to join, citing its opposition to the refusal of other emirates to grant it veto power over state decisions and equal representation in the federal assembly. In addition, Ras al-Khaimah refused to cede the islands of Big and Small Tomb, rich in oil reserves, to Iran. Other emirates did not want to bind themselves with any obligation to Ras al-Khaimah in the event of a conflict with Iran.

Great Britain and a number of other Arab states were quick to recognize the formation of the UAE. However, Iran and Saudi Arabia refused to recognize the new state, having territorial claims to Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. For this reason, the official declaration of independence of the UAE, scheduled for August 1971, was postponed. As a result of the ensuing negotiations with the participation of London, an agreement was reached between Iran and Sharjah in November 1971, according to which part of the island of Abu Musa was transferred to Iran; oil deposits in the coastal waters of the island were also subject to division.

On November 30, 1971, two days before the declaration of independence of the UAE, Iranian troops landed on the island of Abu Musa (completely annexed in 1992) and occupied the strategically important islands of Big and Small Tomb, which belonged to Ras al-Khaimah. Iran's actions sparked protests in the Arab world; a number of countries have lodged a complaint against Iran with the UN Security Council. Great Britain limited itself to expressing its disagreement with Iran's actions. On December 2, 1971, at the conference of the seven emirates held in Dubai, the creation of the UAE was proclaimed. Only six of the seven emirates of Treaty Oman entered the federal state. The ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, was elected as the President of the UAE, and the ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Rashid bin Said Al Maktoum, was elected vice-president. The new president signed a friendship treaty with the UK, which annulled all previous agreements between the UAE member emirates and the British government. Abu Dhabi was chosen as the provisional capital. A few days later, the UAE was admitted to the Arab League and the United Nations. Having failed to achieve international support on the Big and Small Tomb Islands, on February 11, 1972, Ras al-Khaimah also joined the UAE.

Only Saudi Arabia did not recognize the new state, making the resolution of the Buraimi issue a condition of its recognition. As a result of a new round of negotiations in August 1974, Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia concluded an agreement between themselves, according to which Saudi Arabia recognized the rights of Abu Dhabi and Oman to the oasis, and in turn received the territory of Sabha Bita in the southern part of Abu Dhabi, two small island and the right to build a road and oil pipeline through Abu Dhabi to the coast of the Gulf.

Significant revenues from oil exports have financed most of the development programs and shaped the conservative and generally pro-Western course of the UAE, as well as its close ties with Saudi Arabia. However, political life in the UAE was not free from controversy. Since the creation of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi (which favored the strengthening of centralized federal power) and Dubai (which was a supporter of maintaining the significant independence of each of the emirates) did not stop rivalry for leadership in the federation. The first cabinet of ministers, formed in 1971, was dominated by the sons of the Emir of Dubai, who took over as prime minister, deputy prime minister, minister of defense, economy, finance and industry. At the end of December 1973, in connection with the reorganization of the Council of Ministers, the son of the Emir of Abu Dhabi, Hamid bin Zayed al Nahyan, was declared deputy prime minister. By the end of the 1970s, the supporters of integration, led by the ruler of Abu Dhabi, gained another important victory, having achieved the unification of the armed forces of the emirates under a single command (1976), transferred the police, security, immigration and information agencies to the central government.

Throughout the 1970s, border disputes continued between the emirates and their neighbors. The ruler of Ras al-Khaimah continued to advocate the separation of the emirate from the federation. In 1978, the armed forces of Ras al-Khaimah made an unsuccessful attempt to seize the disputed territory belonging to Oman. The fall of the Shah in Iran in 1979, the rise of Islamic fundamentalism and the Iran-Iraq war created an additional threat to the stability of the UAE. In May 1981, in response to the emerging threats, the UAE became one of the six founding members of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Persian Gulf, which, against the backdrop of the Iran-Iraq war, turned into a military-political alliance.

During the Iran-Iraq war, the rulers of individual principalities supported Iraq, while others (Dubai, Sharjah and Umm al-Qaiwain) maintained friendly relations with Iran. The greatest degree of contradictions between the emirates reached in June 1987, when an attempted palace coup took place in Sharjah: Sheikh Sultan Ibn Mohammed Al Qasimi was forced to abdicate in favor of his brother, Abdel Aziz Al Qasimi. President Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (Abu Dhabi) backed Abdel Aziz's claim to power, while Vice President and Prime Minister Rashid bin Said Al Maktoum (Dubai) pledged support for the Sultan. The conflict was resolved only after the High Council of Rulers intervened in the dispute, restoring the powers of the Sheikh Sultan and declaring the applicant crown prince.

In 1990, when Iraq invaded Kuwait, the UAE took part in a US-led multinational coalition of forces, providing $ 6.5 billion and deploying troops. After the end of the war, the navies of the United States and Great Britain continued to use the ports of the UAE.

The last decade of the 20th century in general, it was distinguished by internal political and economic stability. An exception was the closure (on suspicion of financial fraud) in July 1991 of the International Trade and Credit Bank (MTKB), which belonged mainly to the ruling family of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. In December 1993, Abu Dhabi sued the executive management of the MTKB for damages. In June 1994, 11 of the 12 former leaders of the ITCB, accused of fraud, were sentenced to imprisonment in Abu Dhabi and are required to pay compensation. After lengthy negotiations, in 1995, an agreement was reached with depositors and creditors. In June 1996, charges of fraud were dropped from two leaders of the MTKB after an appeal.

Since the Gulf War, the UAE has increased defense spending, expanded its international contacts and diplomatic relations. In 1994, an agreement on military cooperation was signed with the United States, a year later - with France. Along with Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, the UAE government in 1997 recognized the Taliban regime in Afghanistan. In 1998, the UAE restored diplomatic relations with Iraq, which had been interrupted by the 1991 Gulf War. Much attention was paid to the problems of the settlement of the Arab-Israeli conflict.

UAE in the 21st century

During the same period, the country took steps to resolve territorial problems. So, in 1999, during the visit of the Sultan of Oman to Abu Dhabi, border issues with Oman were settled. In November 2000, negotiations were held with Qatar on the border. The only exception is the territorial dispute with Iran. At the end of 1992, Sharjah and Iran reached an agreement on the island of Abu Musa, which completely passed into the jurisdiction of Iran; all foreigners residing on the islands, including UAE citizens, were ordered to obtain Iranian visas. In 1996, Iran further strengthened its position by starting construction of an airport on the island of Abu Musa and a power plant on the island of Big Tomb. In 1997, the UAE protested against Iranian military activity in the Persian Gulf. In November 1999, the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf reiterated its support for the UAE in its dispute over the three islands. In 1999, a diplomatic conflict broke out between the UAE and Saudi Arabia in connection with the desire of Saudi Arabia to normalize relations with Iran.

The topic of constant debate was the question of the degree of integration of the emirates. By the end of the 1990s, due to tactical differences in the political course pursued by Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the full integration of the country's armed forces did not take place. The integration of the emirates in many areas is hampered by the continuing rivalry between the leaders of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

After the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 on New York and Washington, the UAE government decided to sever diplomatic relations with the Taliban movement in Afghanistan, the accounts of 62 organizations and individuals suspected by the United States of financing terrorist movements were frozen, measures were taken to tighten control over cash flows.

During the 2003 Iraqi war, the United Arab Emirates stationed US troops, the country provided substantial humanitarian assistance to Iraq after the official announcement of the cessation of hostilities.

On November 3, 2004, the President of the country, Zayed Ban Sultan, died. On November 3, 2004, the Federal Council of the United Arab Emirates elected Sheikh Zayed's eldest son, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed al Nahyan, as the country's new president. The fifty-six-year-old Sheikh Khalifa has until now chaired the Abu Dhabi Supreme Oil Council and is the Deputy Supreme Commander of the armed forces. Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashed Al Maktoum has served as vice president since December 3, 2001. On January 5, 2006, at the age of 62, he passed away during a visit to Australia.

Literature:

Yakub Yousef Abdullah. United Arab Emirates. The history of political and state development (19th century - early 70s of the 20th century). M., 1978
Isaev V.A., Ozoling V.V. Qatar. M., 1984
Bodyansky V.L. Eastern Arabia: history, geography, population, economy. M., 1986
R.V. Markaryan, V.L. Mikhin United Arab Emirates.- In the book. The latest history of the Arab countries of Asia. 1917-1985. M., 1988
Egorin A.Z., Isaev V.A. United Arab Emirates. M., 1997



Peace. One of the richest and safest countries, the capital of which is growing every year. What is the local population doing? What peoples live in the UAE?

What country is it?

In the east of the Arabian Peninsula, in Asia, the state of the United Arab Emirates is located. In the name of this country there is one not quite familiar word "Emirates". Therefore, before talking about the UAE, let's figure it out. The emirate, just like the sultanate, imamate and caliphate, is a state of the Islamic world with a monarchical form of government. There are few emirates in the world. In the Middle East, there are also Qatar and Kuwait.

The UAE is a federation that consists of seven "kingdoms": Dubai, Ajman, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, Umm al-Qaiwain and Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah. The members of each of them are members of the Supreme Council of Rulers, and he elects the president of the country. At the moment, the president is the ruler of Abu Dhabi - the largest city, the capital of the country. The government is headed by the Emir of Dubai.

Each emirate has its own executive authorities, accountable to the head of state. The government strictly controls all political and economic processes in the country, therefore the UAE is one of the most stable world states.

UAE on the map

The country is located in southwest Asia, surrounded by Saudi Arabia (from the south and west), Qatar (from the northwest), Oman (from the north and east). Washed by the waters of the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf. The total area of ​​the United Arab Emirates is 83,600 square kilometers. The capital of the state, as mentioned above, is the city of Abu Dhabi, located in the emirate of the same name, which occupies more than 85% of the entire territory of the country. The smallest "kingdom" - Ajman, occupies only 250 square meters. km.

The territory of the UAE is mainly covered with rocky and sandy deserts. There are mountains in the north and east of the state. This exotic country has a tropical desert climate. It's hot and dry here. The temperature in summer can reach +50 degrees. In winter, the average temperature drops to +23 degrees.

There are salt deposits in the coastal regions. The bowels of the UAE are rich in uranium, coal, platinum, nickel, copper, chromite, iron ore, bauxite, magnesite. Although the country's main treasures are oil and gas. The Arab Emirates ranks seventh in the world in terms of oil reserves, and fifth in terms of gas reserves. For the next hundred years, the state is fully provided with these precious resources.

Population of the United Arab Emirates

The country is home to about 9 million inhabitants. The population of the United Arab Emirates is not too densely settled. About 65 people live on one square kilometer. Such an indicator is considered normal for European rather than for the state. The state is characterized by a high level of urbanization, the urban population prevails over the rural.

The largest city is Dubai. Back in the early 2000s, more than 30% of all lived in the city. The next cities in terms of significance and size are Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, Al Ain, etc. The population of Abu Dhabi is about 900 thousand people.

Most of the population lives in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, in the rest of the emirates only 25% of all residents are concentrated. The influx of labor force provides a significant increase in the number. Over the past 5 years, the population of the United Arab Emirates has increased by 2 million.

Population structure

Since the emergence of the UAE state on the world map, it has begun active economic development. This, of course, led to the appearance of immigrants from other countries. More often men come to work in the country, so in recent years the male population has almost three times surpassed the female population. Among local residents, representatives of the stronger sex make up about 50%.

The population of the United Arab Emirates is quite young, 80% of residents are under 60 years old. The number of people over 60 is approximately 1.5%. The high level of development and social protection ensures low mortality and extremely high birth rates.

The indigenous population is 20%, the remaining 80% are immigrants from other countries, mainly from Asia and the Middle East. 12% of the population are citizens of the country. Europeans make up about 2.5%. There are approximately 49% of ethnic Arabs in the country. The most numerous peoples of the UAE are Indians and Pakistanis. The state is home to Bedouins, Egyptians, Omanis, Saudi Arabs, Filipinos, Iranians. Most of them come from countries with a low standard of living, for example Ethiopia, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen, Tanzania.

Religion and language

Arab Emirates is an Islamic state. Almost all of its citizens are Muslims. Most of them are Sunnis, about 14% are Shiites. Half of the visitors also adhere to the Islamic religion. Approximately 26% of immigrants are Hindus, 9% are Christians. The rest are Buddhists, Sikhs, Bahais.

There are Christian churches in each of the emirates. However, the government is committed to supporting Islam and Sharia law. According to the country's legislation, it is strictly forbidden to convert Muslims to another faith. For such a violation, up to ten years in prison is given.

The official language is Arabic. In business communication, English is often used, most of the residents speak it perfectly. In the conversation of local residents, Bedouin vocabulary is mixed with classical Arabic. Baluchin, Bengali, Somali languages, Farsi, Telugu, Pashto are spoken among immigrants. The most popular languages ​​are Hindi and Urdu.

Economy and labor

The foundation of the state's economy is the production of oil and natural gas. More than 2 million barrels of oil are produced per day. At the same time, foreign trade, re-export of goods previously imported into the UAE, agriculture, and tourism are developing. The strong point of the United Arab Emirates is the telecommunications sector, as well as a developed transit transport system.

It is 1.5 million people, a third of it is represented by foreigners. A couple of decades ago, the government of the United Arab Emirates resolved the labor resource issue, creating decent working conditions and high wages for immigrants. Thanks to this, a wave of people wishing to earn money poured into the country. Now almost 80% of newcomers work in the service sector, about 14% are laborers in the industrial sector, and only 6% are in agriculture.

Only UAE citizens hold important positions in politics, economics, finance and justice. Recently, the state has been taking measures to limit the influx of immigrants into the country. Mostly illegal immigrants are trying to weed out.

Citizens and immigrants

The policy of the United Arab Emirates towards its citizens is very loyal. As mentioned above, they only hold prestigious positions. Citizens of the country can start working as early as adolescence, while their first salary is already about 4 thousand dollars. The older an Emirati Arab gets, the higher his salary.

Education and medicine are completely free. With excellent academic performance, future students are allowed to choose any world university to study without the obligation to return to the country. Upon reaching the age of majority, each Arab in the UAE is entitled to a piece of land and a certain amount of money. For local women, there are practically the same privileges, except for land.

It is rather difficult for immigrants to obtain local citizenship. The easiest way to do this is for residents of Arab countries. To do this, they must have lived in the country for 7 years, Bahrain and Oman for 3 years. In order for a child to be recognized as a citizen, his father must officially be a local Arab; it is automatically impossible to obtain citizenship. The majority of the UAE population only has a work visa.

Conclusion

The United Arab Emirates supports and protects its citizens in every possible way. All of them are entitled to prestigious positions, significant sums of money and land. However, of the 9 million inhabitants of the country, the true local population represents only a small part. Most of the residents are workers from other countries. High salaries, good working conditions force huge flows of people to come to the UAE every year to work mainly in the service sector.