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United Arab Emirates

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description United Arab Emirates Overview

The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates—Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah—formed in 1971 on the Arabian Peninsula, with Abu Dhabi city as the capital. Its economy, originally based on oil and natural gas, has diversified into trade, finance, aviation and tourism, and the majority of the population are expatriates. Arabic is the official language and Islam the official religion. Dubai is home to the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, while the interior landscape is largely desert.

help United Arab Emirates FAQ

Which seven emirates make up the UAE?

The federation consists of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah, formed on 2 December 1971. Ras Al Khaimah joined shortly afterwards, in 1972, completing the seven.

What is the UAE's capital — Dubai or Abu Dhabi?

The capital is Abu Dhabi city, seat of the federal government and the largest emirate by area, holding most of the oil wealth. Dubai is the commercial and tourism hub, home to the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building at 828 metres.

What currency does the UAE use?

The currency is the UAE dirham (AED), pegged to the US dollar at about 3.67 dirhams. Because of the peg, prices in dirhams move predictably against the dollar for budgeting purposes.

Do tourists need a visa for the UAE?

Many nationalities receive a visa-free entry or visa on arrival, typically for 30 to 40 days depending on passport. Rules differ between emirates on things like alcohol — Dubai, for example, relaxed its personal liquor licensing rules in 2020 — so check your nationality and emirate before travelling.