The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of seven states formed in 1971 by the then Trucial States after independence from Britain.

Although each state - Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm al Qaiwain - maintains a large degree of independence, the UAE is governed by a Supreme Council of Rulers made up of the seven emirs, who appoint the prime minister and the cabinet.

OVERVIEW

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Before the discovery of oil in the 1950s, the UAE's economy was dependent on fishing and a declining pearling industry. But since 1962, when Abu Dhabi became the first of the emirates to begin exporting oil, the country's society and economy have been transformed.

The ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed, president of the UAE since its inception, was quick to seize on the potential of the oil industry, ensuring the development of all the emirates by reinvesting oil revenues back into healthcare, education and national infrastructure. The oil industry has also led to a large influx of foreign workers who now make up approximately three quarters of the population.

The UAE is one of the most liberal countries in the Gulf, with other cultures and beliefs generally tolerated.

FACTS

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Population: 3 million (UN, 2003) Capital: Abu Dhabi Major language: Arabic Major religion: Islam Life expectancy: 73 years (men), 77 years (women) (UN) Monetary unit: 1 Dirham = 100 fils Main exports: Oil, gas GNI per capita: US $19,550 (World Bank 1998) Internet domain: .ae International dialling code: +971

LEADERS

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President, ruler of Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin-Sultan Al Nahyan

Sheikh Zayed

Sheikh Zayed succeeded his brother as ruler of Abu Dhabi in 1966 and, because of his strong leadership and commitment to forming the federation, he was elected as the first president of the United Arab Emirates in 1971.

He has been reelected every five years since 1971. He has instilled the values of religious tolerance and equality, especially for women, into his policies, which have greatly enhanced the stability of the UAE.