Interesting Facts About the UAE

The United Arab Emirates is a country that transformed from a desert region into one of the most developed nations in the world in just a few decades. This federation of seven emirates on the coast of the Persian Gulf amazes with its ambitious projects and incredible wealth. The UAE combines ancient Arab traditions with ultra-modern technology and architecture. Fascinating facts about this country reveal the amazing world of Eastern luxury and innovation. You may not have known many incredible features of this unique state, which has become a symbol of prosperity in the Middle East.

• The UAE was formed on December 2, 1971, through the unification of six emirates, with the seventh joining the following year. The federation consists of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. Each emirate retains significant autonomy and has its own ruler. Abu Dhabi is the capital and the largest emirate by territory.
• Burj Khalifa in Dubai is the tallest building in the world at a height of 828 meters. The skyscraper has 163 floors and was opened in 2010. Construction lasted six years and cost approximately 1.5 billion dollars. The tower’s name honors UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
• The population of the UAE is approximately ten million people, of whom only 10-15 percent are citizens of the country. The rest of the population consists of foreign workers from India, Pakistan, the Philippines, and other countries. Such a demographic structure is unique among the nations of the world. Expats work in all sectors of the economy from construction to finance.
• Before the discovery of oil in 1958, the region’s economy was based on fishing, pearl diving, and trade. The first commercial oil deposits were found in Abu Dhabi. Oil revenues completely transformed the country within a few decades. Today, the UAE is actively diversifying its economy by developing tourism, finance, and technology.
• Dubai has the largest artificial port in the world called Jebel Ali. The port was built in the 1970s and is constantly expanding. It serves thousands of ships annually and is an important logistics hub. The free economic zone around the port attracts thousands of international companies.
• The Palm Islands in Dubai are the largest artificial islands in the world. Palm Jumeirah has the shape of a palm tree and is visible from space. Construction required millions of tons of sand and rocks from the seabed. The islands are home to luxury hotels, villas, and entertainment complexes.
• The UAE has no rivers with permanent water flow on its territory. The country obtains fresh water primarily through desalination of seawater. The UAE is one of the largest producers of desalinated water in the world. Groundwater is also used, but its reserves are limited.
• The climate of the UAE is extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 45 degrees Celsius in summer. Precipitation is less than 100 millimeters per year in most regions. The Rub al Khali desert occupies a significant part of the country’s territory. Air conditioning is a necessity in virtually all buildings.
• The Dubai Metro is the longest fully automated metro system in the world. Trains run without drivers, controlled by computer systems. The metro was opened in 2009 and has two main lines. Stations feature futuristic design and air-conditioned platforms.
• The UAE has one of the lowest tax rates in the world. There is no personal income tax in the country. Corporate tax was introduced only in 2023 at a rate of 9 percent. Such tax policy attracts business and wealthy people from around the world.
• The Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi is one of the largest mosques in the world. It can accommodate more than 40 thousand worshippers simultaneously. The building impresses with white marble and 82 domes of various sizes. The mosque is named after the founder of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
• The UAE is one of the safest countries in the world in terms of crime rate. Strict laws and effective police ensure a high level of security. Tourists can feel safe even late at night. The level of violent crime is extremely low compared to other countries.
• The Gold Souk in Dubai is one of the largest gold markets in the world. Approximately 25 tons of gold are sold here annually. Gold prices are often lower than in other countries due to the absence of taxes. The market attracts buyers from around the world with its variety of jewelry.
• The UAE has a space program and launched a mission to Mars in 2020. The Hope spacecraft became the first Arab interplanetary mission. The mission studies the atmosphere and climate of Mars. This achievement made the UAE the fifth country to reach Mars orbit.
• Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping centers in the world by total area. The complex includes more than 1,200 stores, an aquarium, and an ice rink. More than 80 million people visit the shopping center annually. One of the largest indoor water parks is also located here.
• The UAE is investing billions of dollars in the development of renewable energy. The Noor Abu Dhabi solar power plant is one of the largest in the world. The country plans to significantly increase the share of clean energy by 2050. These initiatives are aimed at reducing dependence on oil.
• Traditional camel racing remains a popular sport in the UAE. Modern races use robot jockeys instead of child riders. Camel owners control the robots remotely during races. Prize camels can be worth millions of dollars.
• The UAE has seven different types of police, including tourist police. Dubai Police uses supercars such as Lamborghini and Bugatti for patrolling. These vehicles serve for rapid response and improving the city’s image. Police supercars have become a tourist attraction.
• The official religion of the UAE is Islam, but the country is tolerant of other faiths. Churches, temples, and gurdwaras are permitted for foreign communities. In 2019, Pope Francis visited the UAE as the first pontiff. The country promotes interfaith dialogue and tolerance.
• The Dubai Shopping Festival lasts a month and attracts millions of visitors. During the festival, huge discounts are offered and lotteries are held. Main prizes include cars, gold, and apartments. The festival has become an important tourist event in the region.
• The UAE has one of the most developed healthcare infrastructures in the Middle East. The country attracts medical tourists from throughout the region. Modern hospitals offer the latest medical technologies and treatments. The government invests significant funds in developing the medical sector.
• Burj Al Arab in Dubai is considered one of the most luxurious hotels in the world. The building has the shape of a sail and reaches a height of 321 meters. The hotel is located on an artificial island and is connected to the shore by a bridge. Rooms have a two-story structure and cost thousands of dollars per night.
• The UAE is actively developing artificial intelligence and appointed the world’s first minister for artificial intelligence. The country plans to become a global leader in AI by 2031. Investments in technology and innovation are a priority of the national strategy. Dubai is implementing smart technologies in all spheres of urban life.

Incredible facts about the UAE demonstrate the impressive transformation of this Middle Eastern state. From desert tribes to space missions, the country has traveled a path that usually takes centuries in just a few decades. The UAE continues to amaze the world with ambitious projects and innovations. Getting to know this unique federation opens up a fascinating world where traditions harmoniously combine with a futuristic vision of the future.