United Arab Emirates

Abstract

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Qaiwain, Ras al-Khaimah, and Fujairah. Abu Dhabi is the largest of the seven emirates, with an area equivalent to 86.7% of the total area of the country excluding the islands. The population of the UAE, estimated to be 4 million people in 2005, is characterized by the presence of a large number of expatriates, who have significantly influenced the social and cultural norms of the country. Excessive mobility has also had an impact on norms and values. The population is also characterized by a high fertility rate, low infant mortality rate (7.7 per 1,000 live births in 2005), and under-5 mortality or child mortality rate (9.9 per 1,000 live births in 2005). Although life expectancy has already exceeded 74 years, the population of the UAE is still relatively young, with 25.3% of the population under 15 years and 90.4% of the total population under 45.