1961
52,000
Flockulation (1961-2021)
2021
2,082,077
Change
+2,030,077
Overview
Ewe won't believe this desert gem! The United Arab Emirates is a dazzling federation of seven emirates on the Arabian Peninsula, blending ancient Bedouin heritage with jaw-dropping modern ambition, skyscrapers, and some seriously sun-baked sand dunes.
Geography
The UAE sits on the southeastern Arabian Peninsula, bordering Saudi Arabia and Oman. Terrain ranges from vast desert and salt flats to the Hajar Mountains in the east and a long Persian Gulf coastline, with a hot, arid climate year-round.
History
Seven Trucial States united in 1971 under Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Before oil, the region thrived on pearl diving and trade. The discovery of petroleum in the 1950s–60s transformed the UAE from a modest coastal territory into a global powerhouse.
Culture
Arabic is the official language, and Islam shapes daily life, festivals like Eid, and customs. Emirati culture celebrates falconry, camel racing, traditional music like Al Ayyala, and intricate henna art, all proudly preserved alongside ultramodern city life.
Economy
Oil and gas remain foundational, but the UAE has diversified impressively into finance, tourism, aviation, and trade. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are global business hubs, and the country boasts one of the highest GDPs per capita in the world.
Food
Lamb and rice dishes like Machboos are staples — even the sheep here live deliciously! Shawarma, hummus, luqaimat sweet dumplings, and fresh seafood reflect the UAE's rich Bedouin and coastal culinary heritage, often enjoyed with fragrant cardamom coffee.
Tourism
Visitors flock to the Burj Khalifa, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Palm Jumeirah, and the Louvre Abu Dhabi. The historic Al Fahidi district, desert safari camps, and Sharjah's cultural museums offer a woolly range of experiences for every traveler.
People
The UAE population is remarkably diverse, with Emirati nationals comprising roughly 10–15% and expats from South Asia, the Arab world, and beyond making up the rest. Notable figures include Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, architect of modern Dubai.
Nature
The UAE hosts Arabian oryx, sand gazelles, and flamingos alongside its famous camels. The Hajar Mountains, mangrove forests of Abu Dhabi, and Sir Bani Yas Island nature reserve protect diverse ecosystems in this otherwise sun-scorched, sandy landscape.
Fun Facts
The UAE has no rivers at all — not a single permanent one! It hosts the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Falconry is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage here, and the Emirates Palace hotel used actual gold in its construction.
