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United Arab Emirates

 

The United Arab Emirates: A Fascinating Destination for Travelers

 

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a country in the Middle East that consists of seven emirates:

Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah.

The UAE is known for its rich culture, modern architecture, diverse landscapes, and many attractions that appeal to travelers from all over the world.

In this article, we will explore some of the tourist places in the UAE, as well as some interesting facts about the country’s history, population, economy, and more.

 

Flag of the United Arab Emirates, Currency, Population, Tourism, Landmarks

Flag of the United Arab Emirates, Currency, Population, Tourism, Landmarks

 

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History of the UAE

The UAE has a long and complex history that dates back to ancient times.

The region was inhabited by various groups of people, such as the Magan, the Umm Al Nar, the Dilmun, and the Sumerians.

The area was also influenced by different civilizations, such as the Persians, the Greeks, the Romans, the Sassanids, the Parthians, and the Arabs.

The UAE was part of the Islamic Caliphate from the 7th century until the 16th century, when it came under the control of the Portuguese, the Ottomans, and the British.

The UAE gained its independence from the British in 1971, after a series of negotiations and agreements.

The UAE then formed a federation of seven emirates, each with its own ruler and government.

The UAE has since developed into a modern and prosperous nation, with a strong regional and international presence.

 

Capital of the UAE

The capital of the UAE is Abu Dhabi, which is also the largest and most populous emirate.

Abu Dhabi is located on a T-shaped island in the Persian Gulf, and covers an area of about 67,340 square kilometers.

Abu Dhabi is the political, economic, and cultural center of the UAE, and hosts many government institutions, diplomatic missions, and international organizations.

Abu Dhabi is also a major tourist destination, as it offers many attractions,

such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Emirates Palace, the Yas Island, and the Ferrari World.

 

Population of United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates has a population of about 9.5 million people.

 

UAE Flag Meaning

The UAE flag was adopted on December 2, 1971, the same day the country declared its independence from the British.

The flag consists of four colors: red, green, white, and black.

The flag has a vertical red stripe on the hoist side, and three horizontal stripes of green, white, and black on the fly side.

The flag has a symbolic and historical meaning, as each color represents a different aspect of the UAE’s identity and values.

The red color represents the sacrifices and courage of the people who fought for the country’s freedom and unity.

The green color represents the prosperity and fertility of the land and the Islamic faith.

The white color represents the peace and purity of the nation and its people.

The black color represents the strength and dignity of the country and its rulers.

 

Flag of the United Arab Emirates, Currency, Population, Tourism, Landmarks

Flag of the United Arab Emirates, Currency, Population, Tourism, Landmarks

 

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UAE Continent

The UAE is located in the continent of Asia, specifically in the region of Western Asia or the Middle East.

The UAE is bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south and west, Oman to the east and southeast, and the Persian Gulf to the north.

The UAE has a coastline of about 1,318 kilometers, and a total land area of about 83,600 square kilometers.

The UAE has a strategic location, as it lies near the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for the global oil trade.

The UAE also has a diverse geography, as it features mountains, deserts, oases, islands, and beaches.

 

UAE Economy

The UAE has a highly developed and diversified economy, that ranks as the 29th largest in the world, according to the International Monetary Fund.

The UAE has a nominal GDP of about $421.1 billion, and a per capita GDP of about $43,103.

The UAE has a market-based economy, that is driven by the sectors of oil and gas, trade, tourism, finance, construction, and manufacturing.

The UAE is one of the world’s largest oil producers and exporters,

as it has proven oil reserves of about 97.8 billion barrels, and natural gas reserves of about 215 trillion cubic feet.

The UAE is also a member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

The UAE has a strong trade and investment relationship with many countries, especially with China, India, the United States, Japan, and the European Union.

The UAE is also a major tourist destination, as it attracts about 21.3 million visitors annually, who spend about $27.9 billion.

The UAE is also a global financial hub, as it hosts many banks, corporations, and stock exchanges,

such as the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, the Dubai Financial Market, and the Nasdaq Dubai.

 

UAE Currency

The currency of the UAE is the United Arab Emirates dirham, which is abbreviated as AED.

The dirham is divided into 100 fils, and exchange rate at of 20 November 2023 with the US dollar, at 1 USD = 3.67 AED.

The dirham was introduced in 1973, replacing the Qatar and Dubai riyal, and the Bahraini dinar.

The dirham is issued by the Central Bank of the UAE, and features the portrait of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan,

the founding father of the UAE, on the obverse, and various landmarks and symbols of the UAE on the reverse.

The dirham is available in banknotes of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 AED, and coins of 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 fils, and 1 AED.

 

UAE Country Code

The country code of the UAE is +971, which is used to make international phone calls to the UAE from other countries.

The country code is followed by an area code that indicates the emirate or city of the UAE, such as 2 for Abu Dhabi, 4 for Dubai, 6 for Sharjah, and so on.

The area code is then followed by a seven-digit local number, such as +971 4 123 4567.

The UAE also has a two-digit mobile code that indicates the mobile network operator, such as 50, 52, 54, 55, 56, and 58.

The mobile code is followed by a seven-digit mobile number, such as +971 50 123 4567.

 

Flag of the United Arab Emirates, Currency, Population, Tourism, Landmarks

Flag of the United Arab Emirates, Currency, Population, Tourism, Landmarks

 

Download the application Flags Of World - Quiz ,

And test your knowledge with Flags of World ,

 

UAE Pronunciation

The pronunciation of the UAE is [juːˌnaɪtɪd ˌærəb ˈɛmɪrɪts], which can be written in phonetic symbols as follows:

[juː] is pronounced as the sound of the letter U in the word “use”.

[ˌnaɪtɪd] is pronounced as the word “night” with a D sound at the end.

[ˌærəb] is pronounced as the word “air” with a B sound at the end.

[ˈɛmɪrɪts] is pronounced as the word “emir” with an S sound at the end.

The UAE is also commonly referred to as the Emirates, which is pronounced as [ɪˈmɪrɪts], which can be written in phonetic symbols as follows:

[ɪ] is pronounced as the sound of the letter I in the word “it”.

[ˈmɪr] is pronounced as the word “mir” with a stress on the first syllable.

[ɪts] is pronounced as the sound of the letter I in the word “it” with an S sound at the end.

 

UAE Abbreviation

The abbreviation of the UAE is UAE, which stands for the United Arab Emirates.

The abbreviation is written in capital letters, without any periods or spaces between the letters.

The abbreviation is also used as an adjective to describe something related to the UAE, such as UAE culture, UAE flag, UAE currency, and so on.

The abbreviation is also used as a noun to refer to the country itself, such as “I live in the UAE”, “The UAE is a beautiful country”, and so on.

 

UAE Culture

The UAE has a rich and diverse culture, that reflects its Islamic heritage, Arab identity, and cosmopolitan society.

The UAE culture is characterized by its values of hospitality, tolerance, generosity, respect, and modesty.

The UAE culture is also influenced by its history, geography, and environment,

as well as by the cultures of the various ethnic groups and nationalities that live in the country.

Some of the aspects of the UAE culture are:

Language:

The official language of the UAE is Arabic, which is spoken by the majority of the population.

Arabic is also used for official purposes, such as government, education, media, and religion.

The UAE also has many other languages spoken by its residents, such as English, Hindi, Urdu, Persian, Malayalam, Tagalog, and others.

 

Some of the Cities in the United Arab Emirates are:

 

Dubai:

Dubai is the most populous and famous city in the UAE, and one of the most dynamic and diverse cities in the world.

Dubai is located on the coast of the Persian Gulf, and has a population of about 3.4 million people.

Dubai is a global city, that is known for its innovation, development, and tourism.

Dubai has many landmarks, such as the Burj Khalifa, the Palm Jumeirah, the Dubai Mall, and the Dubai Frame.

Abu Dhabi:

Abu Dhabi is the capital and the second-largest city in the UAE, and the seat of the federal government.

Abu Dhabi is located on an island in the Persian Gulf, and has a population of about 1.5 million people.

Abu Dhabi is a cultural and political center, that is known for its heritage, diversity, and vision.

Abu Dhabi has many attractions, such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Emirates Palace, and the Yas Island.

Sharjah:

Sharjah is the third-largest and the most populous emirate in the UAE, and the cultural capital of the Arab world.

Sharjah is located on the Arabian Peninsula, and has a population of about 1.4 million people.

Sharjah is a historical and artistic city, that is known for its museums, festivals, and architecture.

Sharjah has many places of interest, such as the Al Qasba, the Sharjah Art Museum, the Sharjah Aquarium, and the Sharjah Heritage Area.

Ajman:

Ajman is the smallest and the least populous emirate in the UAE, and the only one that does not have a coastline on the Persian Gulf.

Ajman is located on the Arabian Gulf, and has a population of about 540,000 people.

Ajman is a developing and modern city, that is known for its trade, industry, and education.

Ajman has many features, such as the Ajman Museum, the Ajman Corniche, the Ajman University, and the Ajman City Centre.

 

Flag of the United Arab Emirates, Currency, Population, Tourism, Landmarks

Flag of the United Arab Emirates, Currency, Population, Tourism, Landmarks

 

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Some of the landmarks in the United Arab Emirates are:

 

Burj Khalifa:

The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, standing at a height of 828 meters.

The Burj Khalifa is located in Dubai, and has 163 floors, 57 elevators, and 8 escalators.

The Burj Khalifa is a marvel of engineering, design, and architecture, and has many features,

such as the observation deck, the fountain, the park, and the hotel.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque:

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in the UAE, and one of the largest in the world.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is located in Abu Dhabi, and can accommodate up to 40,000 worshippers.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic art and culture, and has many elements,

such as the domes, the minarets, the chandeliers, the carpets, and the gardens.

Palm Jumeirah:

The Palm Jumeirah is an artificial island in the shape of a palm tree, that extends into the Persian Gulf.

The Palm Jumeirah is located in Dubai, and has a total area of 560 hectares.

The Palm Jumeirah is a luxury and leisure destination, and has many attractions, such as the hotels, the villas, the resorts, the malls, and the beach.

Al Ain Oasis:

The Al Ain Oasis is a natural oasis in the desert, that is home to more than 147,000 date palms.

The Al Ain Oasis is located in Al Ain, and covers an area of 1,200 hectares.

The Al Ain Oasis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and has many aspects, such as the irrigation system, the farms, the museums, and the wildlife.

 

Some of the beaches in the United Arab Emirates are:

 

Jumeirah Beach:

Jumeirah Beach is one of the most popular and famous beaches in Dubai, and the UAE.

Jumeirah Beach is located along the coast of the Arabian Gulf, and stretches for about 18 kilometers.

Jumeirah Beach is a public beach, that offers many facilities and activities, such as sunbathing, swimming, surfing, jet skiing, parasailing, and camel riding.

Jumeirah Beach is also close to many attractions, such as the Burj Al Arab, the Jumeirah Mosque, the Wild Wadi Water Park, and the Madinat Jumeirah.

Saadiyat Beach:

Saadiyat Beach is one of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in Abu Dhabi, and the UAE.

Saadiyat Beach is located on the Saadiyat Island, and covers an area of about 9 kilometers.

Saadiyat Beach is a private beach, that requires an entrance fee or a membership to access.

Saadiyat Beach offers many amenities and services, such as loungers, umbrellas, showers, changing rooms, lifeguards, and restaurants.

Saadiyat Beach is also home to many wildlife, such as dolphins, turtles, and birds.

Khor Fakkan Beach:

Khor Fakkan Beach is one of the most scenic and serene beaches in Sharjah, and the UAE.

Khor Fakkan Beach is located on the east coast of the UAE, and faces the Gulf of Oman.

Khor Fakkan Beach is a public beach, that is free to enter and use.

Khor Fakkan Beach offers many opportunities and adventures, such as snorkeling, diving, fishing, boating, and hiking.

Khor Fakkan Beach is also surrounded by many natural and historical sights,

such as the Al Wurayah Waterfall, the Shark Island, the Khor Fakkan Fort, and the Al Hayl Castle.

 

Flag of the United Arab Emirates, Currency, Population, Tourism, Landmarks

Flag of the United Arab Emirates, Currency, Population, Tourism, Landmarks

 

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Al Zorah Beach:

Al Zorah Beach is one of the most tranquil and relaxing beaches in Ajman, and the UAE.

Al Zorah Beach is located on the Al Zorah Nature Reserve, and spans for about 12 kilometers.

Al Zorah Beach is a private beach, that is part of the Al Zorah Resort, a luxury and eco-friendly destination.

Al Zorah Beach offers many facilities and activities, such as golfing, kayaking, cycling, birdwatching, and spa.

Al Zorah Beach is also a haven for many flora and fauna, such as mangroves, flamingos, herons, and fish.

 

Climate of the United Arab Emirates

The climate of the United Arab Emirates is characterized by its hot and dry weather, with little rainfall and high humidity.

The UAE has a subtropical arid climate, that is influenced by its location, elevation, and proximity to the sea.

 The UAE has four seasons: winter, spring, summer, and autumn.

The average temperature of the UAE ranges from 10°C to 48°C, depending on the season and the region.

The average rainfall of the UAE is about 100 mm per year, mostly occurring in the winter months.

The average humidity of the UAE is about 60%, varying from 50% to 90%, depending on the season and the region.

The following table summarizes the climate of the UAE by season and by emirate:

The temperature is measured in degrees Celsius (°C), the rainfall is measured in millimeters (mm), and the humidity is measured in percentage (%).

Borders of United Arab Emirates

The borders of the United Arab Emirates are the geographic boundaries that separate the UAE from its neighboring countries and the sea.

The UAE has a total land border of about 867 kilometers, and a total coastline of about 1,318 kilometers.

The UAE shares its land border with two countries: Saudi Arabia and Oman.

The UAE also has a maritime border with three countries: Iran, Qatar, and Pakistan.

The UAE’s borders are not only defined by physical features,

such as mountains, deserts, and rivers, but also by historical, political, and legal factors, such as treaties, agreements, and disputes.

Some of the UAE’s borders are well-established and recognized, while others are contested and unresolved.

Some of the UAE’s border issues and challenges are:

The UAE and Saudi Arabia have a long-standing border dispute over the area of Al Buraimi, which is rich in oil and water resources.

The dispute dates back to the 1950s, when Saudi Arabia claimed the area as part of its territory, and the UAE rejected the claim.

The dispute was partially settled in 1974, when the two countries signed a treaty that defined the border along the line of the 1934 Saudi-British Treaty.

However, the treaty was never ratified by the UAE, and the border remains undefined and unmarked.

The UAE and Oman have a complex and overlapping border, that consists of several enclaves and exclaves.

An enclave is a territory that is surrounded by another country, while an exclave is a territory that is separated from the main part of a country by another country.

The UAE has three enclaves within Oman: Madha, Nahwa, and Zarrarah. Oman has one enclave within the UAE: Wadi Madha.

The UAE and Oman also have several exclaves that are separated from their main territories by each other, such as Al Ain, Musandam, and Dibba.

The UAE and Oman have agreed to demarcate and delimit their border in 2008, but the process is still ongoing and incomplete.

The UAE and Iran have a maritime border dispute over the ownership and control of three islands in the Persian Gulf: Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb.

The dispute dates back to the 1970s, when Iran occupied the islands by force, and the UAE claimed them as part of its territory.

The dispute has escalated over the years, as Iran has built military and civilian facilities on the islands, and the UAE has sought international support and arbitration.

The dispute remains unresolved and tense, as the islands are strategically located near the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for the global oil trade.

The UAE and Qatar have a maritime border dispute over the delimitation of their continental shelf and exclusive economic zone in the Persian Gulf.

The dispute dates back to the 1990s, when the two countries signed a memorandum of understanding that defined their maritime boundary, but did not ratify it.

The dispute has worsened over the years, as the two countries have engaged in diplomatic and economic conflicts,

such as the 2017 Qatar diplomatic crisis, which saw the UAE and other Arab countries cut off ties and impose a blockade on Qatar.

The dispute remains unresolved and complicated, as the maritime area is rich in natural gas and fish resources.

The UAE and Pakistan have a maritime border agreement that was signed in 1971, but has not been implemented or enforced.

The agreement defines the maritime boundary between the two countries in the Arabian Sea,

and grants the UAE the right to use and exploit the continental shelf and the exclusive economic zone of Pakistan.

The agreement has been criticized and challenged by some Pakistani politicians and activists,

who argue that it is unfair and illegal, and that it deprives Pakistan of its sovereignty and resources.

The agreement remains controversial and ambiguous, as the two countries have not exchanged the necessary documents and maps to finalize and verify it.

 

Flag of the United Arab Emirates, Currency, Population, Tourism, Landmarks

Flag of the United Arab Emirates, Currency, Population, Tourism, Landmarks

 

Download the application Flags Of World - Quiz ,

And test your knowledge with Flags of World ,

 

National Anthem of United Arab Emirates