CultureAlthough the United Arab Emirate (UAE) is tolerant of most cultures and religions, it is fiercely proud of its own rich heritage. The government is committed to preserving these customs by promoting and supporting the country's cultural activities at home and abroad through the Ministry’s Cultural Department and The Cultural Foundation in Abu Dhabi. The main religious groups in the UAE are Muslims, making up the majority of citizens and 55% of non-nationals. The other main groups residing in the country include Hindu (25%), Christian (10%), Buddhism (5%) and the remaining 5% is made up of religions including Parsi, Baha'i and Sikh (Wikipedia - United Arab Emirates, 2007). Part of the Muslim religion includes the Holy Month of Ramadan, which will usually affect working hours in the country. During Ramadam, Muslims do not eat, drink or smoke from sunrise to sunset. Working days are often shorter, as a result of fasting all day, however, this generally only applies to those who practice the faith. Non-Muslims should be respectful of Ramadan and not drink, eat or smoke in public, even in their cars. If they are found to be doing any of these things during the Holy Month, it is a punishable offence. back to top Economic factorsThe unit currency for UAE is the Dirham (Dhs). As there are no personal taxes levied against income from employment, the UAE offers an excellent standard of living where you can enjoy and benefit from your entire salary. back to top Social mattersThe total population for the UAE is 4,444,011 (The World Factbook, 2007). Expatriates make up a substantial number of the total population and nationals and non-nationals live harmoniously side by side displaying mutual respect for one another. The most highly populated emirates are: Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah. Population growth is high and is estimated to increase over the next decade. Due to the high number of migrant workers, two-thirds of the population are estimated to be male. The ethnicity of the UAE is made up of the following: Emirati, Arab and Iranian, South Asian and other expatriates (includes Westerners and East Asians). South Asians make up the majority with approximately 50%. UAE companies can discriminate by advertising jobs specifically for certain religions, nationalities and genders. It is common practice to have varying pay scales between men and women and people from different nationalities. It is highly unlikely that you will be able to retire in the UAE. The government does not allow anyone past the retirement age to stay in the country without a job. They must return to their country of origin with immediate effect. back to top Political situationFormally established in 1971, the UAE constitutional federation is comprised of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajma, Umm al-Oaiwain, Ra’s al-Khaimah and Fujairah. The current sheikh is Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and was elected as president in 2004 after the death of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan who had held the post from 1971. The federation replaced the old association of the Trucial States that had been under the British administration. The Supreme Council meets at five-year intervals to either reaffirm the existing president or elect a new one. For more information, visit UAE Interact. back to top GeographyThe UAE is situated in the Arabian Peninsula. The country has borders with Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Oman. Along the coastline, there are long, sandy beaches stretching for kilometres. In the south and west of the country, the land is mainly sand dunes with the occasional traditional desert oasis. The northern part is made up of the Hajar Mountain range and the east coast benefits from a fertile plain where rainfall and subterranean water have allowed agriculture to be practiced for thousands of years. The climate of the UAE is hot and humid in the summer months (May to October), with temperatures ranging between 40 to 45 degrees, and humidity of 90%. During the winter months (November to April) when most tourists visit, the midday temperatures are between 20 to 25 degrees. Rainfall rarely exceeds five inches a year, and there is a persistent wind that relieves the summer heat but can reach gale force in winter.
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United Arab Emirates: Country overview
