United Arab Emirates / الإمارات العربية المتحدة – Let’s explore here
What’s it like in the United Arab Emirates?
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a beautiful country in western Asia. It’s a very hot and very dry country, mostly composed of desert, and there are also over 200 islands off the coast. The highest point is Jabal Ar Rahrah in the Hajar mountains, at 5,548 ft (1,691 m) above sea level.
It has a very long history as a trading post, and has been inhabited for over 100,000 years. It is comprised of a federation of seven emirates – Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain. Its neighbours are Oman and Saudi Arabia.
The population of the UAE is around 11 million people (2024), about one in seven of whom live in the capital, Abu Dhabi. Most of the population are expatriates or migrant workers for the oil and gas industries. Only around one in nine of the UAEs population are Emirati citizens! You can apply to stay and work for an extended time as a digital nomad.
A bit about the history of the UAE
Early History
The area now known as the United Arab Emirates has a long history dating back to ancient times. It was home to various civilisations, including the Dilmun and Lihyanite cultures. The region was part of the trade routes that connected ancient Mesopotamia, Persia and India. The area also saw the spread of Islam in the 7th century.
Portuguese and British Influence
In the 16th century, the Portuguese established a presence in the region, seeking control of trade routes. However, by the 19th century, the British became the dominant foreign power in the area. The British signed a series of treaties with local tribes, establishing their influence in the region and ensuring the security of trade routes. By the early 20th century, the area was known as the Trucial States, under British protection.
Formation of the UAE
In the mid 20th century, the discovery of oil in the region brought significant wealth. In 1971, after Britain withdrew its treaty obligations, six of the Trucial States; Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Umm Al-Quwain, Fujairah, and Ajman; came together to form the United Arab Emirates. The seventh emirate, Ras Al Khaimah, joined in 1972. The country was established as a federation of these emirates, with Abu Dhabi as the capital and the ruling emir of Abu Dhabi serving as the president.
Economic Growth and Modernization
From the 1970s onwards, the UAE experienced rapid economic growth driven by oil exports. The country used its newfound wealth to modernise its infrastructure, including the development of cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which became global centers for business, tourism and finance. The UAE also invested heavily in education, healthcare and technology.
Foreign Policy and Military Involvement
The UAE has been an active player in regional and international politics. It has played a role in various military interventions, such as in Yemen, and has contributed to peacekeeping missions. The country is a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and has maintained a strong relationship with Western countries, particularly the United States.
Recent Developments
In recent years, the UAE has continued to diversify its economy, focusing on areas such as tourism, real estate and renewable energy. Dubai, in particular, has become known for its iconic skyline, including the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. The UAE has also taken steps to develop a space program, launching its first Mars mission in 2020. Despite its modernisation, the country remains an absolute monarchy with limited political freedoms.
UAE road trip
On our current road trip through the United Arab Emirates, we’ll be travelling from Oman to the UAE, before moving on to Bahrain. Hopefully this will improve our knowledge of this intriguing and beautiful country, and enable us to meet some interesting people. We’ll be updating this page at that time – don’t forget to check back 🙂
Map of the United Arab Emirates
What’s it like to drive in the UAE?
They drive on the right hand side of the road in the UAE. In the main, roads are good, however many are also unsurfaced dirt tracks. Driving standards are also good.
Do you require an international driving permit in the United Arab Emirates?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Can you use your UK driving license when driving through the United Arab Emirates?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Do I need a carnet de passages to drive in the UAE?
A carnet de passages is required to overland in United Arab Emirates. We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
What currency do they use in the United Arab Emirates?
In the UAE they use the UAE dirham. Cash is widely used. The use of credit / debit cards is very widely accepted. Travellers cheques are also readily accepted. There are many ATMs in cities and towns throughout the country.
You should make yourself aware of the amount that your bank charges you for using credit and debit cards abroad. Often credit cards are cheaper for purchasing items directly, and for withdrawing cash from ATMs.
What language do they speak in the United Arab Emirates?
They speak Arabic in the UAE. English is also widely spoken.
What time zone is the UAE in?
Remember, when you’re planning your next trip to take a look at what time zone it’s in.
Do I need a visa to visit the United Arab Emirates?
We’ve created a dedicated, more comprehensive page on visas, which you should find helpful. Check it out!
Is wild camping legal in the UAE?
Yes, wild camping is fine in the UAE.
What plug / socket type do they use in United Arab Emirates?
In United Arab Emirates they use plug / socket types C, D and G.
Health issues in the UAE
Is it safe to drink water in the United Arab Emirates?
Yes, it is safe to drink tap water in the UAE. Bottled water is also readily available throughout the country.
What vaccinations are required for the United Arab Emirates?
This NHS website is kept up to date with all relevant information on vaccinations in the United Arab Emirates.
Phones in United Arab Emirates
What is the country calling code for United Arab Emirates?
The country calling code for United Arab Emirates is +971
What are the emergency phone numbers in the United Arab Emirates?
- The emergency number for police in the UAE is: 999
- In the UAE, the emergency number for ambulance is: 998
- The emergency number for fire in the UAE is: 997
If you’ve got some useful info that you’d like to share, let us know!
And don’t forget to check out all the other pictures!