United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates is located between the 22 and 26.5° north latitude north and 51 and 56.5° east longitude. It shares borders with the Arabian Gulf in the north; the Gulf of Oman and the Sultanate of Oman in the east; the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Sultanate of Oman in the south and the State of Qatar and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the west.

The south coast of the United Arab Emirates, on the Arabian Gulf, is 644 km long with the Emirates of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al Khaima along it. The coast of Fujairah is 90km long and is on the Gulf of Oman.
 

The area of the UAE is about 83,600m². Most of it is deserts and oases. Most of the shores are sandy except the north area in Ras Al Khaimah that is mountainous.
 

There are hundreds of islands in the Gulf waters belonging to the UAE including about 200 islands in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. The main one is Sir Bani Yas Island which has become a green oasis and natural reservation for rare animals and birds. Among the other important islands are Das Island, Abu Al Abiad Island, Abu Mousa’s two islands, Sir Bu Nair Island in Sharjah, Greater and Lesser Tunbs Islands, Al Hamraa Island in Ras Al Khaimah and Scenic Island in Um Al Quwain (103).
Geographical Note: The UAE has a distinctive strategic location due to its proximity to the Straits of Hormuz which is an active passage for international oil shipments. 

  
Area per Emirate:

 Abu Dhabi              86.7%
 Dubai                     5.0%
 Sharjah                  3.3%
 Ras Al Khaima         2.2%
 Fujairah                  1.5%
 Umm El Quwain       1.0%
 Ajman                     0.3%

 
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(103) The following information was obtained from the official portal of the UAE Government on the internet, the following link: click here
 

At the end of 2010, the National Census Centre estimated the population of the UAE to be 8.26 million with an increase of 65% compared to 2006 when the population was 5.01 million. According to the Global Human Development Report 2011, the UAE’s population was about 7.9 million in 2011 with a fertility average of 1.7%.
 

However, the report ‘Estimates of Economic Changes in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi 2011-2012’ issued by the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry stated that population of the Emirates had reached 7.2 million at the end of 2011 and that it would continue to grow in 2012 to 7.6 million, an increase of 5.6%. 
 

As a result of continuous developments in the health field, death rates notably decreased in recent years while the birth rate remained almost constant.

According to the two tables shown below, the birth rate dropped from 10.9 per 1,000 people in 2007 to 8.52 in 2008 before increasing again to 9.3 in 2009 and 9.64 in 2010.
 
However, the death rate dropped from 1.19 per 1,000 people in 2007 to 0.96 in 2008 and 0.95 in 2009 and 0.90 in 2010. The result was that natural increase recorded a drop from 9.69 per 1,000 of the population in 2007 to 8.74 in 2010.

The GDP of the United Arab Emirates grew progressively over the past decades. It increased from AED 6.5 Billion in 1971, approaching AED 1 Trillion in 2010, an increase of about 154 times. Oil contribution to the GDP dropped from 70% in 1971 to 29% in 2010 ⁽¹¹⁴⁾.
 
During 2009, the Emirati economy achieved a growth of 1.3%. The non-oil sectors were 71.6% of GDP compared to 66.5% in 2008. In 2009, the GDP in current prices amounted to US$ 249 billion and the GDP in fixed prices amounted to US$ 140.1⁽¹¹⁵⁾. According to the Abu Dhabi Economic Development Department report, the Emirati non-oil economy achieved real growth at the rate of 8.3% in 2009 despite the challenges imposed by the global financial crisis while the inflation rate dropped to 1.5% compared to 12.3% in 2008 ⁽¹¹⁶⁾.

- According to the International Monetary Fund, the Emirati economy recovered from the global monetary crisis in 2011. As a result of increased oil production, GDP grew at the rate of 4.9% in 2011, exceeding expectations. The Fund said that the Emirates non-oil economy recorded growth at the rate of about 2.7% in 2011 supported by the very high level of performance in commerce, tourism and industry.
 

- The Fund expressed optimism about the future economic growth of the UAE and confirmed that it had recovered completely from the consequences of the global financial crisis. The Fund expected that growth in the Emirates economy would reach 2.8% in 2013 noting that the non-oil sector would lead the growth alongside the stability of growth of the oil sector. It expected that growth of non-oil GDP would reach 3.8% in 2013. According to the Fund’s estimates, it was expected that the GDP of the Emirates would reach US$ 438 billion and that it would increase to US$ 539 billion in 2013 compared to US$ 136 billion in 2011⁽¹¹⁷⁾ .
 
A December 2013 report prepared by the Economist Intelligence Unit expected that the Emirates’ growth rate from 2013 to 2017 would reach 5.1% per annum. The Unit expected that the UAE Government would continue to follow an expansionary financial policy supported by oil prices and that the financial surplus in the next five years would exceed 4.8% of the GDP because the Government had reined in spending during that period.

- The report expected that the Emirates’ trade surplus would exceed 16.6% of GDP between 2013 and 2017. The report expected that economic growth would exceed 3.5% in 2013 considering the slow growth in the Asian emerging markets and the world trade recession and it confirmed that growth from 2014 would increase, supported by intensive oil activity and as of 2015 – 2017 driven by higher oil production and oil prices ⁽¹¹⁸⁾.
 

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114. In a study prepared by the Secretariat General of Dubai Economic Council: the economic growth rates in the country exceeds those similar in most of the developed countries in the world; Al Ittihad Newspapers (Abu Dhabi); 05/12/2010:

115. Emirate Economic Report: 3.2% of growth in 2010 and inflation drops to 1.1%; Middle East Newspaper (London); 30/05/2010

116. Abu Dhabi Economist: The big decrease in rents and accommodation costs contributed to the reduction of the inflation rate: the Emirati non-oil economy growth is 8.3% last year; Al Ittihad Newspaper (Abu Dhabi); 10/11/2010:

117. Supported by the revival of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the UAE economy breaks out from the cocoon of the global crisis and moves to growth in 2013; The Economist; 01/01/2013:

118. “The Economist”: Financial surplus, 4.8% of GDP in the next five years - 5.1%, the annual growth average in the Emirates until 2017; Al Bayan Newspaper (Dubai); 30/11/201
 

According to the International Monetary Fund’s data, per capita income from the GDP evaluated by purchasing power is about US 48.200 in 2011 ⁽¹¹⁹⁾. According to the Global Report of Human Development of 2011, per capita income from the GDP in the country amounted to US$ 59.990 _{⁽¹²⁰⁾}.
 

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119. The foregoing data are obtained from the following link: Click here

120. Abdul Hay Mohammed, “UAE is 30th worldwide and the 1st in the Arab world in human development”, Al Bayan Newspaper (Dubai), 09/01/2012; on the following link: Click here
 

The federal government allocates large amounts of resources to developing education at all levels; it reviews the education budget and continuously increases it in order to meet the demand for a good education.

 
According to the 2011 budget, the amount allocated to university education was AED 2.7 billion, the amount for general education amounted was AED 4.6 billion making the total allocation for general and university education AED 7.3 billion, 18% of the total budget. In the 2012 federal budget, the education sector was first in terms of general spending, receiving 20% of the total budget, AED 8.2 billion.

 
In the 2013 budget, education was allocated AED 9.9 billion, 22.2% of the total federal budget. Basic education’s share amounted to AED 6 billion, 13.5% of total general spending while the share of university education amounted to AED 3.9 billion, 8.7% of the total federal budget.

 
The government also placed special importance on health services and their development. Its 2012 budget allocation was AED 2 billion, 7.2% of the total. In 2013, AED 3.4 billion was allocated, 7.6% the total.
 

In 1918, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was born in the City of Abu Dhabi where his graceful father and mother surrounded him with good care and upbringing. He learned the Holy Quran and was raised in an environment filled with love, religion and virtue which was reflected in his life and personal behaviour. When he became an adult, love, selflessness, hard work and patience became his main characteristics ⁽¹⁾. He had the unmistaken signs of leadership, genius and a forgiving spirit and later became the wise leader who was destined to change the face of the region and lead it from the hard nomad life to modern civilization.
 

Time passed and Sheikh Shakhbout, the elder brother of Sheikh Zayed, becomes the ruler of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi after the demise of their father Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan (1922 – 1926). Sheikh Zayed was admired by his brother Sheikh Shakhbout who delegated senior leadership tasks to him as he saw in Sheikh Zayed signs of leadership and glorious traits. Sheikh Zayed became the representative of the Al Ain area in 1946 where his genius and political leadership talent was demonstrated. He believed in the ability of humans to build the State and transform the desert into a green oasis. He realized that land is the source of richness and wealth, “Give me agriculture, I guarantee civilization to you” ⁽²⁾.
 

Sheikh Zayed followed world events through Arab radio stations and newspapers, seeing the progress that was taking place in the world and the region around him. He felt pain because of the ignorance and division in his country. He set his highest goal; to save his country and transform it into a modern state that provided luxury and prosperity to its people ⁽³⁾. He started an urgent plan to reform agriculture in the City of Al Ain with the nationalization of nomads, building new Aflaj (water courses) and excavating canals that connected to them ⁽⁴⁾.

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1. Sheikh Zayed, the dream comes true and hope is manifested; at: forum of Sheikh Zayed the life and the march (the book of first session 2010) Cultural Media Centre of    H.H Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi, 2010, Page 26.

2. Refer to: Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Zayed the Wisdom of the Arabs, University Library, Al Azarita – Alexandria, 2000, Page 65.

3. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the United Arab Emirates; March of Leader and Will of Nation, first book, Modern Book Establishment (Beirut)/ Arab Culture House (Sharjah), Edition 1, 1992, Pages 142-143.

4. Ibid, Page 142-143, 145 and thereafter.
 

The idea of the Union of the Emirates was not new but in the past it was connected to the British colonial government that, in 1937, presented to the rulers of the Emirates a project to unify them; ⁽⁵⁾ to facilitate ruling them. They repeated the call in 1952 and succeeded in establishing the Conciliated Emirates Council ⁽⁶⁾. The Council met on several occasions. In 1958, committees were formed in areas including health, agriculture and education. In 1964, the Advisory Council was established. ⁽⁷⁾ In 1965, a draft budget proposed that the rich emirates such as Abu Dhabi would finance the Conciliated Emirates Council and in the same year the Conciliated Emirates Development Council was formed ⁽⁸⁾. However these attempts were connected to colonial policies. Serious attempts to form a true federation between the various Emirates originated from local ideas and interests.
 

The Al Ain area was at the forefront of the new United Arab Emirates. Sheikh Zayed used to wander the vast desert that has underneath it huge natural wealth and a cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years ⁽⁹⁾. He felt he belonged to a deep-rooted culture steeped in Islam. He realized that there was a great and important mission awaiting him، the mission of building. His concern grew and with it a feeling of huge responsibility as he moved between the various tribes. He did not see natural or cultural borders separating them. He believed that religion, nature, culture, history and customs united the tribes and groups that belonged to the different Emirates ⁽¹⁰⁾.
 

From here came the idea of establishing an actual union that would gather together all the Emirates, but, like any new idea, it had to wait for the right time and the right man. Sheikh Zayed had a mysterious feeling that the region had in store huge wealth but that it needed someone to develop it materially and culturally. This was not an easy task given the scarcity of economic resources and the total lack of infrastructure; however, the will of man knows no limits. Initially, these were just meditations and feelings that needed more time to crystallize.
 

In the city of Al Ain, Sheikh Zayed was convinced that the area could not rise and progress unless it was truly united. One day he said, “Unity is the way to strength, honour and power and division only leads to weakness and there is no place in today’s world for weak entities ⁽¹¹⁾.
 
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5. Adel Al Tabatbaie, Federal Regime in the United Arab Emirates: comparative study, New Cairo Printing Press, Edition 1, Cairo, Page 30, quoted from: Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, United Arab Emirates, ibid, Page 50.

6. Adel Al Tabatbaie, Federal Regime in the United Arab Emirates, ibid, Page 33, quoted from: Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, United Arab Emirates, ibid, Page 50.

7. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, United Arab Emirates, ibid, Page 50.

8. ibid, Page 50.

9. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the United Arab Emirates; March of Leader and Will of Nation, first book, Modern Book Establishment (Beirut)/ Arab Culture House (Sharjah), Edition 1, 1992, Page 29 and thereafter; Amal Al Subah, Sheikh of the Arabs, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, printed at Akhbar El Youm Printing Press (Egypt), pages 18-19 and about the history of Emirates please refer to: Dr. Fatima Al Sayegh, United Arab Emirates from tribe to state, university book house, Al Ain, 2000.

10. Please refer to, for example: Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the United Arab Emirates; ibid, page 52.

11. Refer to: Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Zayed the Wise of the Arabs, University Library, Al Azarita – Alexandria, 2000, Page 80, Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the United Arab Emirates, ibid, page 52.
 

Sheikh Zayed expressed his ambition and vision for building his country to an international reporter:
 
“One day, when I was the ruler of Al Ain Region, I was walking on the roads of Al Ain، I felt, as I watched people, houses, mountains and valleys that the culture of this country is shouting at me, it pushes me hard to build a modern and contemporary country. I found myself pointing, as I was in a sweet spiritual dream: Here we shall establish a huge agriculture centre, an industrial area here and here we shall build a large station for generating electricity ⁽¹²⁾.”
 

Sheikh Zayed started to embody that dream and to achieve his ambition as leader of the Al Ain area. In a short time he was able to construct a strong infrastructure; administration and government buildings, large housing projects, schools, hospitals and roads. Then his vision extended to include the entire Emirate of Abu Dhabi and even the other Emirates and his feeling about the necessity of establishing a union that included the Conciliated Emirates grew ⁽¹³⁾. On 22nd December 1954, Sheikh Zayed expressed this feeling to Sir William Louis, the British Standing Politician in Bahrain, when he said, “The Union is a necessity and Abu Dhabi should provide the monies needed for this purpose ⁽¹⁴⁾.
 

On the 6th August 1966, Sheikh Zayed became the Ruler of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi after his brother, Sheikh Shakhbout, abdicated at the ruling family’s wishes and so there was a new beginning, one that made its mark on the history of the region. By now, Sheikh Zayed’s vision of the union had deepened and he started working on two integrated levels: The level of building the Emirate and the level of building the Union ⁽¹⁵⁾. Although the oil was not yet being utilized, because it was just the beginning of production,⁽¹⁶⁾  his insight and long term vision made him realize that oil is useless unless it is utilized for achieving the Union and developing people ⁽¹⁷⁾, “The human being is the true wealth” ⁽¹⁸⁾ as he used to always say. So he dedicated the oil wealth to build and develop the nation as a union.
 

At the local level, the Works Department was established in 1966 to execute giant infrastructure projects in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. This department became one of the most important pillars of development in the Emirate; building roads, bridges, airports, sea ports, administration buildings, hospitals and schools (high, preparatory, elementary and kindergartens) ⁽¹⁹⁾. On 20th March 1968, Sheikh Zayed issued a decree which established a council for planning, in charge of development along scientific, well-researched principles. He issued his orders to transform Abu Dhabi into a modern Emirate, leading the effort towards union. He also established local constitutional ministries, preparing to establish a parliamentary democratic regime⁽²⁰⁾  and achieve the great dream of the Union.
 

At the federal level, along with his brothers the rulers of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed established the Supreme Council of the Rulers of the Gulf Emirates which held its first meeting under his chairmanship in Abu Dhabi on the 6th July 1968 to study the formation of the Union. In a short time, on the 2nd December 197, the dream of the Union became a reality.
 
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12.Al Ittihad Newspaper, 4th June 1970, quoted from: Hamdan Rashid Ali Al Dirie, Zayed: the story of glory and pride of the union, ibid, page 21.

13.Please refer to: Sheikh Zayed، the dream comes true and hope is manifested; at: forum of Sheikh Zayed the life and the march (the book of first session 2010) Cultural Media Centre of H.H Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi, 2010, Page 28.

14.The history of the United Arab Emirates, selections from the most important British documents 1797 – 1965, Volume Three, Britain and the pioneer leaders, verified by: Dr. Mohammed Morsi Abdullah, translation supervised by: Leslie McLoklen, London Centre for Arabic Studies, 1996, page 345, quoted from: Hamdan Rashid Ali Al Dirie,  the story of glory and pride of the union, reading in the British documents and the Arab and Foreign Media 1968 – 1971, Zayed Culture and History Centre, Edition 1, Abu Dhabi, 1426/2005, page 44; please also refer to Sheikh Zayed Forum, the story and the march, ibid, page 28 – 29.

15.Sheikh Zayed، the dream comes true and hope is manifested; at: forum of Sheikh Zayed the life and the march, ibid, page 30, Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the United Arab Emirates; ibid, Page 51; Amal Al Subah, Sheikh of the Arabs Sheikh Zayed, ibid, page 65-66.

16.Although the agreement of oil exploration in Abu Dhabi goes back to 1939 between the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the Petroleum Development of the Conciliated Coast Company Limited, the first shipment of Emirates oil was shipped on the Third of July 1962. Please refer to: Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the United Arab Emirates; ibid, Page 99.

17.Sheikh Zayed، the dream comes true and hope is manifested; at: forum of Sheikh Zayed the life and the march, ibid, page 29.

18.Amal Al Subah, Sheikh of the Arabs Sheikh Zayed, ibid, page 110.

19.About the achievements of the Department, please refer to: The Works Department in Abu Dhabi: achievements of 25 years of construction and building, Al Ittihad Press and Publishing Establishment, Abu Dhabi, 1412H/1991.

20.Mohammed Hassan Al Aidaros, Political Developments in the United Arab Emirates, That Al Salasil Publishing, Kuwait, Edition 1, 1983, page 351, quoted from: Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the United Arab Emirates; ibid, Page 52.
 

When Sheikh Zayed and his brothers the Rulers were focusing on the way to build the Union, regional and international events were also moving fast. On the 6th January 1968, the British Government announced that it intended to withdraw its armed forces from the Gulf area by the end of 1972. Immediately, Sheikh Zayed contacted his brother, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, to drive efforts towards building the Union ⁽²¹⁾. For a long time, the two leaders had been working with their brothers to achieve this dream, therefore they declared the historic Agreement of Al Smeih establishing a union between the Emirate of Dubai and the Emirate of Abu Dhabi on 18th February 1968. That was the nucleus and the starting point for a more comprehensive union that embraced the other Emirates. At the same time, a call was made to the other Emirates to join this union.
 

The echo of the historic words Sheikh Zayed used to comment on the Agreement of Al-Smeeh in March 1968 still resonates in every house in the United Arab Emirates, “We believe that unity is the Arab destiny that all of us should seek. We should work as best we can to overcome the hardships that prevent us from reaching it. Where there is true will and a cooperative exchange of views among brothers, then we shall reach the comprehensive unit with Allah’s will” ⁽²²⁾.
 

The echo of this agreement resonated in Egypt, the beating heart of Arabism at that time and on 20th February 1968, Cairo Radio commented on the event, “The statement issued declaring the formation of a federation between the Emirates of Abu Dhabi and Dubai is a good step and a clear indication of the days to come. This step is a positive move towards Arab unity as it expresses the wishes of the masses for the formation of a wide comprehensive unity that include all Emirates in the region, or most of them.
 

This step is also a free expression of the Arab will at a time when Britain had announced its withdrawal from the region by the end of 1971. This will close the door on all who look to infiltrate this region under the umbrella of so-called called ‘joint defence systems’ or assertions of ‘filling the gap’. In this light, the Arab Joint Defence Agreement, represented by the union of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, had its practical meaning. The agreement made by the two emirates, a pioneering national and uniting act, gave the chance for any other Emirates to joint. As such, this union was, without doubt, a barrier to foreign infiltration and the barrier grew stronger and more powerful with the strong foundation of the union ⁽²³⁾.
 

Men of History
 

After the Agreement of Alsmeih, the Rulers of the Emirates intensified their efforts to establish the Union. The effort of the founding leader Sheikh Zayed would have not succeeded except for men of belief who dedicated themselves to building a great enterprise.
 

On 18th July 1971, the Rulers’ Council issued the declaration of the Union and on the 2nd December 1971 the Rulers of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah held a historic meeting chaired by Sheikh Zayed at Al Diyafa Palace in Jumeirah (Dubai) and issued a statement declaring the temporary constitution⁽²⁴⁾ of the Union and elected Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan as the President of the United Arab Emirates and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum as the Vice President. The emirate of Ras Al Khaima joined the union on 10th February 1972.
 

It was not easy to quickly form the Union. Sheikh Zayed said, “I know these obstacles، but I don’t believe in the impossible… in everything that we think of as impossible we should try until the impossible becomes close to reality and then it becomes a reality we live ”⁽²⁵⁾. There were difficulties but the obstacles were overcome by Sheikh Zayed’s wisdom, patience and belief that the separate Emirates could not thrive despite their resources and wealth. His brothers the Rulers stood with him and shared his vision ⁽²⁶⁾.
 

Sheikh Zayed and the other leaders’ dream that the two sister emirates Qatar and Bahrain join the Union did not come true. However, the Union of the seven Emirates, comprising the United Arab Emirates, had become an example that inspires Arab unions in the region ⁽²⁷⁾.
 

The builders of the Union, particularly Sheikh Zayed, believed that the security, stability and rise of the country could not be achieved by fragile and improvised alliances but by building political, social and economic establishments that were solid and consistent. This could only be achieved by a true and strong Union⁽²⁸⁾ . The success Sheikh Zayed had convincing his brothers the Rulers about the necessity of forming a strong union was not only based on the fact that Abu Dhabi is the strongest and richest Emirate but also on his wisdom, insight and the respect he received from them, the whole region and the world ⁽²⁹⁾.
 

Sheikh Zayed believed that the Union of the Emirates would be the future of the country and the Arab nation and that it was the request of the people, he said, “I believe that the strength of the Emirates lies in its union and honest cooperation. You can feel this belief among all their people and be sure that they all wish the same. They agree that it is the best way to secure a good living and a promising future, that it is the only thing that fulfils their wishes and hopes not only in the region but all over the Arab world. I will not hold back from using all means necessary to strengthen this Union and reinforce the building of it. I will not hesitate to do all that we should do to support a comprehensive Arab solidarity between our country and the entire Arab nation and I pray to Allah that He shall grace us with the achievement of our hopes and the hopes of our glorious Arab nation”⁽³⁰⁾ .
 

The Armed Forces, the Fort of the Union
 

The men of the union did not forget that a true unity could not be protected without federal armed forces. Therefore, once the Union was formed in 1971, Sheikh Zayed’s belief deepened that it was necessary to unite the armed forces; to form a shield that would protect the sovereignty and unity of the country. Although it was a long process, the armed forces were united by a historic decision, made by the Supreme Council of the Union on the 6th May 1976. The decision was executed on 31st January 1978.
 

Like other ambitious achievements, unification of the armed forces was not an easy task, but it was necessary to deeply root and protect the Union. Sheikh Zayed had always been aware of this. On the formation of the Union he had said, “The Union، should have power and such power should grow with it. We did not sacrifice and work through nights for a union that is just a formal weak one. Therefore its defence force should grow and safeguard its security”⁽³¹⁾.
 
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21.Al Jamhouriya Newspapers, Cairo/ 8th December 1971, quoted from: Zayed the story of glory and pride of union: reading in the British Documents and the Arab and Foreign Media 1968-1971, Zayed Culture and History Centre, Al Ain (Arab Emirates), First Edition 1426H/1005, page 48, please refer to: Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the United Arab Emirates; ibid, Page 51, 53, Amal Al Subah, Sheikh of Arabs Sheikh Zayed, ibid, page 29-30; Dr. Fatima Al Sayegh, United Arab Emirates from Tribe to State, ibid, page 285-287.

22.Sheikh Zayed in March 1968 commenting on the Agreement of Al Samih; Al Ahram Newspaper, Cairo, 16th March 1968, quoted from: Zayed the story of glory and pride of union; ibid, page 53.

23. Please refer to The Union of Arab Emirates, FCO 8/828, quoted from: Zayed the story of glory and pride of union, ibid, page 48.

24. It became permanent under the constitutional amendment no. 1 of 1996; please refer to Dr. Nawaf Kanaan, the constitutional and political regime of the United Arab Emirates; ibid, page 131.

25. Al Nuaimi, Rashid, Zayed from City of Al Ain to the presidency of the union, Cairo, quoted from: Zayed the story of glory and pride of union, ibid, page 59; and also refer to the hardships that faced the union in: Zayed the story of glory and pride of union, ibid, page 90 and thereafter; also refer to: Emirates Strategic Researches and Studies Centre (prepared), with the power of the union/ His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan the Leader and the State, Abu Dhabi, Edition 2, 2005, page 249 and thereafter.

26. Please refer to: Details in: “Sheikh Zayed، the dream came true and the hope is manifested” in: the Forum of Sheikh Zayed the story and the march, ibid, page 34; also refer to: with the power of the union; ibid, page 249 and thereafter.

27.“Sheikh Zayed، the dream came true and the hope is manifested” in: the Forum of Sheikh Zayed the story and the march, ibid, page 34;

28.Emirates Strategic Researches and Studies Centre (prepared), with the power of the union/ His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan the Leader and the State, Abu Dhabi, Edition 2, 2005, page 222 and thereafter.

29.See details in: Emirates Strategic Researches and Studies Centre (prepared), with the power of the union/ His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan the Leader and the State, Abu Dhabi, Edition 2, 2005, page 222 and thereafter.

30.Zayed the story of glory and pride of union, ibid; page 120-121.

31.Ibid, page 158.
 
 

The men of the Union, led by Sheikh Zayed, realized that the Union needed to be built in the hearts of people before it was embodied and established in reality. This is the secret, charm and appeal of the Union’s success. Other unity attempts in the region had failed because they were built without solid foundations and others were shaken almost to the point that it destroyed them before they had the chance to take root and grow strong. The Union of the Emirates was built in people’s hearts and minds before it was built in reality and that is why it succeeded and became a unique example.
 

It was a union based on centralized power whilst at the same time taking into consideration the local character of every Emirate. This was the secret of its dynamic power and the way it distinguished itself from other unions that had failed in the region. This attracted the attention of an academic delegation from the University of Jordan which visited the United Arab Emirates early in 2000. One member of this delegation said: “I was impressed by many things during my last visit to the United Arab Emirates but what I liked most is the sense of focus; it seems that the various Emirates clearly realized what they wanted to achieve and every Emirate succeeded in its endeavours or were about to succeed. Dubai excelled in trading while Sharjah became a landmark of culture and heritage, and so on. Some might hastily say that money alone is behind all this progress. This is not true; all of this was achieved thanks to sound planning, good administration and proper focus ⁽³²⁾.”
 
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32. Please refer to: Dr. Ahmed Y. Majdoubeh, “View from Academia”;  Jordan Times, April 7-8 2005, 5; quoted from: Emirates Strategic Researches and Studies Centre  (prepared), with the power of the Union/ His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan the Leader and the State, Abu Dhabi, Edition 2, 2005, page 297-298.

As mentioned before, what made the union of the United Arab Emirates special is that it was built in the hearts of citizens before it was built in reality. The leaders and the people joined hands to build the Union. The Union was also known for other features: it was built on general consent, Arab and Islamic traditions and the principles of cooperation, integration and the free exchange of views about all matters, within the model of counsel and advice. There was another inherent feature that could only realized by careful attention. There was a building feature that could be seen throughout the different Emirates despite the variety of buildings. If you went from Dubai to Sharjah, for example, you would witness some difference and diversification but you would feel some kind of hidden similarity and harmony in the buildings so that when you entered Sharjah you didn’t feel that you had left Dubai and vice versa. There was synchronicity and harmony in the Union’s building despite its differences and diversity. This synchronicity and harmony was a reflection of the cultural, spiritual and social unity and harmony of the people of the Emirates that formed an invincible fort that maintained and protected the Union.
 

This similarity and integration between the various Emirates, not only at the economic level but also at the social, cultural, geographical and historic levels, represented the safety pin of the Union. The leaders observed these facts in order to build the Union on a solid foundation ⁽³³⁾. More importantly, the leaders were keen to evaluate the experience at all stages until it was deeply rooted and until progress was achieved. Sheikh Zayed expressed this when he said, “The march of the Union is growing and progressing from one stage to another and at each stage we have to review what has been achieved، in order to continue the march and speed up the process, in order to achieve the hopes of our people، our nation expects us to achieve what brings happiness and to move to what is better ⁽³⁴⁾. So, the Union had another unique characteristic; continuous review and follow up at every stage to ensure permanent success.
 

The Union Maintains the Cultural, Social and National Identity
 

As much as building the United Arab Emirates was a response to a political, economic and social necessity, it was also an enhancement of the cultural and national identity of the country. H.H. the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed this thought when he said, “Those who do not have identity do not exist in the present and have no place in the future”. He confirmed this principle in his 2008 declaration that this was the Year of National Identity during a speech to the people on the occasion of the Thirty Sixth Anniversary of the Union. In this speech, His Highness focused on the importance of the Arabic language because it is, “the heart and shield of national identity, the spirit and sense of the nation and the guiding light and the field of its thought and culture،” This is true because language is the basis of the cultural identity of every society. Society and individuals can only express their creativity through their language, proved by modern studies and experiments ⁽³⁵⁾.
 

Which language is considered the main one naturally relies on the culture of the society. Culture is the expression of existence, of identity and the compass that determines the direction of society. Without it, society cannot know their past or see their future because culture guides people on a clear path whilst at the same time helps them know who they are in this diversified world ⁽³⁶⁾. The identity that the President, H.H. the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, visualized and of which H.H. Sheikh Zayed had spoken before, is an identity that is open to others, that interacts with others but does not dissolve or fuse with theirs, it gives and takes, it is an identity based on people who take pride in their pride, established culture and religion and does not feel embarrassed to benefit from and interact with others.
 

His Highness said, “Our national identity is the comprehensive expression of our existence, our positive values, habits and traditions and our national language. Our society needs national programs that enhance our identity and root in us a sense of belonging and citizenship. We need programs that motivate the spirit of work and productive initiative in a manner that complements the spirit of modern time whilst maintaining our distinctive characteristics. The achievements that have been accomplished during the life of the state were possible thanks to the wise leadership of the country and its incredible ability to understand the goals and aspirations of the people for the present and the future. The meeting point of both wills is the guarantee for a winning start towards achieving the first national goal for this year, 2008, namely, to maintain and enhance the national identity and protect it from the risks surrounding its existence”. ⁽³⁷⁾.

______________________________________
 
33.By the power of the union, ibid; page 231-232.

34. Ibid; page 232.

35. In this concern please refer to: Seveinn Einarsson, Language –a tool for communication or a cornerstone of our cultural diversity? In: The Art of Impossible?: Multilingualism and access to cyberspace, The Norwegian National Commission for UNESCO, Norway, 1999, pp. 10 -11.

36. Jean Pierre Varnie, Globalization of Culture, translated by Abdul Jalil Al Azadi, Egyptian Lebanese House, 1 Edition, Cairo, 1423/2003; Pp 16.

37.Website of the Ministry of Culture Youth and Social Development; the link: Click here
 

The constitution of the United Arab Emirates, issued in 1971, and its various amendments, determined the federal form of the State and the strength of the Union. Examples include Articles 120 – 121 and Article 122 ⁽³⁸⁾. The constitution states that the federal authorities are: The Supreme Council of the Union, the President and Vice President, The Federal Cabinet, The Federal National Council and Federal Judiciary ⁽³⁹⁾.
 

The constitution did not specify the form of regime and therefore jurists differed in defining its nature: Is it a presidential, parliamentary council or mixed regime? It could be said that it is a mixed regime because it combined the characteristics of government systems known today. On one hand, it is a presidential regime that comprises the Supreme Council of the Union and its Chairman. The Council and the Chairman lay down the general policies of the State without the Cabinet and it also confirms the independence of powers; the government does not report to the Federal National Council and as such the council cannot withdraw confidence from the government ⁽⁴⁰⁾.
 

On the other hand, it is like a parliamentary system because it contains the duality of executive power (the Supreme Council and its Chairman) although there isn’t a total separation between powers but rather cooperation and participation ⁽⁴¹⁾.
 

If this regime is compared to Switzerland’s council system, there are some similarities; there is a Presidential Executive Council (the Supreme Council of the Union) whose Chairman is appointed but it is also different from the Swiss Council Regime. It could be said that the government regime in the United Arab Emirates is a mixed regime that combines all the above systems. This is not strange, the French system is mixed, it is neither presidential nor parliamentary; it is described as semi presidential. In fact there is no one single system for democratic government applied in all countries. Each country chooses the government system that is appropriate for its history, culture, habits and political development.
 

In addition to the executive power there are two other powers, the legislative and judicial, mentioned earlier. The judicial power comprises a hierarchal organization of judiciary headed by the Federal Supreme Court to which all courts of various degrees (first instance and appeal) are attached. The judiciary is independent according to the constitution and there is no power that overrides the power of the judge when he pronounces his sentence except his conscience according to the law (Article 94) ⁽⁴²⁾ . As for the legislative power, it is distributed between the Supreme Council of the Union and the Federal National Council ⁽⁴³⁾.
 

The National Council was established at the same time as the Union.  Sheikh Zayed and his brothers the Rulers of the Emirates realized the importance of representative and national organizations in building and maintaining the Union. As a result, the Federal National Council was established and held its first meeting on 12th February 1972. Like the other organizations, it had a humble beginning but it evolved and developed until now, under the wise leadership of H.H. the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, it has become a powerful and effective body for discussing, amending and rejecting bills of laws and for giving opinions about international treaties ⁽⁴⁴⁾, in addition to its political and financial competence ⁽⁴⁵⁾.
 

On the 2nd December 2005, the Council moved from the stage of establishment (during the era of Sheikh Zayed) to the stage of empowerment under the reign of H.H. the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who issued a decree to elect half the number of the Council’s members and to expand its membership and competences. In December 2006, elections were held to select 20 members of the forty members of the Council. As one of the elected members of the Council said at that time: “، in this period, the work of the Council developed with a new spirit and new hopes resulting from the principle of participation. As members, we felt this change, for example, the public can call the parliament member and ask him about his achievements or lack thereof ⁽⁴⁶⁾.
 

In 2009, the term of the Council was extended from two to four years, which gave a chance for the members to form cumulative experience in parliamentary affairs and understand the citizens’ problems, concerns and hopes as encouraged by the leadership of the state. In addition, new reforms were introduced, to be considered by the Council, such as opinion about international treaties and the competence of the Council to prepare its bylaws and present them directly to the Supreme Council without consultation with the government ⁽⁴⁷⁾.
 

The last elections of the National Council took place (24th September 2011) in a democratic environment within the third phase of the Political Empowerment Program as laid down by H.H. the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, from 2005 ⁽⁴⁸⁾.
 
________________________________________

38.Constitution of the United Arab Emirates and its amendments; also refer to: Dr. Nawaf Kanaan, Constitutional and Political System of the United Arab Emirates, the University Bookshop, Sharjah/ Ithraa Publishing and Distribution House, Jordan, 1st Edition, 2008; pp 107.

39.Section Four (Articles 45 – 109) of the Constitution of the United Arab Emirates.

40.Dr. Nawaf Kanaan, Constitutional and Political System of the United Arab Emirates; ibid; pp 122.

41.Please refer to details in: Dr. Nawaf Kanaan, Constitutional and Political System of the United Arab Emirates; ibid; pp 121, 123.

42.The constitution of the United Arab Emirates and its amendments; ibid;.

43.Please refer to: Dr. Nawaf Kanaan, Constitutional and Political System of the United Arab Emirates; ibid; pp 121, 188, 200 - 202.

44.Please refer to details in: Dr. Nawaf Kanaan, Constitutional and Political System of the United Arab Emirates; ibid; pp 200 and thereafter.

45.Ibid; pp 211 and thereafter.

46.Ahmad bin Shabib Al Dhahiri, ((the Federal National Council: Experience and Horizon)) in: Cultural Season Book (2010), H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan Cultural Media Center, Abu Dhabi; 2010, pp 384.

47.According to the constitutional amendment no. 1 of 2009.

48.Website of the National Elections Committee: Click here 
 

Before talking about the consultative democracy model established by the federal constitution, the fact that there is no one concept of democracy and no single constant form that does not change should be discussed. Democracy, as the ancient Greek concept is defined, is “The rule of the people by the people and for the people”. It is only a utopian thought, a kind of ideal, that cannot be applied in reality. It has never been applied in any country in the world, from ancient times until now, and could not be applied in the future ⁽⁴⁹⁾.
 

As for the democracy that is currently applied in the western world, which is based on election mechanisms and separation between authorities, it does not have one form. There are different forms that vary according to the conditions of each country and their historic development. Each system is different; the Presidential system (United States), Parliamentary system (Britain), Mixed system (France) and Councils system (Switzerland).
 

In addition the election mechanisms are very different in these countries. The American people for example, do not elect their President directly but elect an election body in every state which elects the American President. One candidate may receive the majority of the people’s votes and still fail to win the position of President because the mechanism applied there makes the election as the right of the election body or the election group.
 

In Britain, the Prime Minister of the country is not elected, he/she is elected by the political parties. When a party receives the majority of votes, its leader becomes the Prime Minister automatically. However, in France, the President is elected directly. The people elect their President without mediation. This is a set of differences that makes democracy in the west itself different in forms, colour and contents.
 

So, democracy has concepts that differ according to the traditions of every society and its culture and historic development. Therefore, when David Cameron, the British Prime Minister, visited Zayed University in Abu Dhabi and spoke about democracy he said, “Democracy is not only the elections every four or five years but it is the provision of chances for education and studying at university and having an appropriate job.” He also said that there are many democracies in various countries that are democracies only in name ⁽⁵⁰⁾. Cameron said this again at the Sixty Seventh meeting of the general assembly of the United Nations (26th September 2012) ⁽⁵¹⁾.
 

In the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed realized that a good government regime is one that achieves prosperity and a better life for its citizens regardless of what it is called, “So, what could we call this regime? In general, what really matters is not the names but what matters is the goal, a better life for citizens, and this is what our state is doing. The ideas of justice, progress and other modern concepts exist in Islam and we do not need to import regimes from abroad as long as our regime achieves what is good; all good to the children of this country ⁽⁵²⁾.
 

The leadership of the Emirates by Sheikh Zayed to H.H. the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has always sought to achieve prosperity, happiness and content for citizens and reinforce their confidence in their leadership and government. This was evidenced in a 2012 international report that ranked the Emirates number one in the world in an index of ‘Confidence in Government Procedures’ ⁽⁵³⁾ prepared by the American Global Edelman Establishment ⁽⁵⁴⁾.
 

The level of political and civil liberties that citizens enjoy are within the controls of law, Sharia and the customs of the country. The Emirates was accepted as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council for January 2013 until the end of December 2015. This international credential demonstrates how far the Emirates has come in its human rights development.
 

Democracy in the United Arab Emirates is about achieving happiness and mutual trust between the leadership and the people in a way that observes the traditions, culture, religion and history of the society. The final goal is democracy, the participation of people in public life and to secure for them prosperity, security and stability under a consultation principle. This is the situation now in the United Arab Emirates; its people have had secured for them a way to make a decent living, to be prosperous and feel stabile whilst also being politically consulted.
 

The principle of consultation was manifested by the formation of the Federal National Council, the way it has had its competence increased and the way its election processes work. Now the Council is an important, active player in the legislative process. H.H. the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is always keen to develop and enable the council and the coming years will witness a new stage of empowerment and development.  H.H. the late Sheikh Khalifa said, “We shall take all efforts to make the Council more powerful and effective and closer to the issues of the citizens and their concerns through which the true values and participation and methodology of consultation shall be rooted” ⁽⁵⁵⁾.
 

The concept of democracy in the Emirates is based on the concept of one Emirati family discussing its different issues, big and small, in order to improve the country and always move it to higher levels in all fields, find solutions for present problems and train the citizens through their representatives to participate in public affairs. The citizens can also, in the traditional way, in the discussions and dialogues held in salons, public halls, clubs and the Majlis of rulers and sheikhs, express their opinions, grievances and wishes; this is the definition of democracy in the Emirates. Although they are different from those prevailing in the West, the ultimate goal is the same, regardless of the means. The constitution guarantees all public liberties for individuals whether they are civil, political, social or economic ⁽⁵⁶⁾.
 

The Social Researcher, Sally Findlow, says this participation, or the joint participation between the state and the people, is called the “Ideology of Participation”. She says, “Through several official plans, and spreading the idea of participation, the UAE government actively encourages all citizens to take part building an economy and infrastructure that has the ability to gather momentum. With this concept, the role of collective will and effort, in order to build a unified state, is clear. However, this does not mean the wealth, information resources and political power that can be obtained by money did not have any role. At the same time, social solidarity was achieved through permanent family ties and the everlasting tribal relation in a small society where every member in it feels that he knows the ruler in person “or at least knows one member of the royal family” ⁽⁵⁷⁾.
 
________________________________________

49. Dr. Mohammed Abed Al Jabiri, Democracy and Human Rights, Arab Unity Studies Centre, Beirut, 3rd Edition, 2004; pp 14-16.    

50. Website of Dar Al Khaleej: Click here

51. British Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Commonwealth website: Click here

52. Amal Al Subah, Sheikh of the Arabs, Sheikh Zayed; ibid, pp 113.

53. For more information please refer to: website of Al Ittihad Newspaper: Click here

54. Read more: Emirates first worldwide in the index of confidence in government procedures – Al Ittihad Newspaper:

 Click here

55.In his speech on the occasion of Thirty Fourth National Day Anniversary in 2005 concerning the Federal National Council.

56.Third Section (Articles 25 – 44) of the Constitution of the United Arab Emirates and its amendments; also please refer to: Dr. Nawaf Kanaan, Constitutional and Political System of the United Arab Emirates; ibid; pp 235 and thereafter.
 

57.Please refer to: Sally Findlow, The United Arab Emirates: Nationalism and Arab-Islamic Identity, Abu Dhabi: The Emirates Centre for Strategic Studies and Research, 2000, Emirates Occasional Papers 39, 20 – 21, quoted from: Emirates Strategic Research and Studies (prepared) with the power of the Union/ H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan the Leader and the State; ibid, pp 307.
 

As we said earlier, the ultimate goal of the Union was the prosperity of the citizen and also the political, social, cultural and economic prosperity and development of the country. Naturally, all of this needed a modern and advanced infrastructure. Therefore, after structuring the political and constitutional establishment of the Union, the construction of a modern infrastructure that achieves these goals was given priority. The state was almost built from nothing because Britain did not complete any infrastructure in the Emirates; it used the Emirates as a passage to its colonies in India and elsewhere. At a press conference, Sheikh Zayed spoke about the friendship with Britain and said, “Britain never colonized us but used our region as a passage and centre of communication to serve its interests; it did not cause harm to us; actually our relation was pleasant، It is true that Britain did not build for us hospitals, schools or things like that” ⁽⁵⁸⁾.

 
However, when Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan passed away on 19th Ramadan 1425H / 2nd November 2004, the United Arab Emirates had reached a level of prosperity and achieved an advanced infrastructure; schools, universities, hospitals, roads, bridges, transportation, sea ports and airports etc، Today, the United Arab Emirates is a modern country with an advanced infrastructure that competes with developed countries that had been centuries ahead. The United Arab Emirates now plays a prominent role in regional and international politics and has gained the admiration of the whole world for its unique experiment in the economic, financial, infrastructure, security and stability fields ⁽⁵⁹⁾.

 
The UAE became first at a regional level and eleventh worldwide in terms of the quality of its transportation infrastructure, according to the 2012 Global Report of Enabling Commerce ⁽⁶⁰⁾. As such it preceded several countries like the USA, Finland and Belgium ⁽⁶¹⁾. The UAE was the first worldwide to design high towers chosen, by the World Council of Tower Buildings and Urban Houses (CTBUH), as the best architectural design in terms of innovation, development and compatibility with the environment. The council awarded the annual innovation award to one of the towers in the capital city of Abu Dhabi that is owned by the Abu Dhabi Investment Council.  An innovative characteristic of tower’s façade is that it’s possible to open and close the façade automatically according to the movement of the sun, which halves power consumption ⁽⁶²⁾.
 
________________________________________
 
58. Ministry of Information, Zayed with media reporters about contemporary issues; Ministry of Information, Abu Dhabi, pp51-52; quoted from: Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the United Arab Emirates; ibid, pp 55-56. 

59. Sheikh Zayed… the dream comes true and hope is manifested) in: Forum of Sheikh Zayed the Story and the March; ibid, pp44.

60. Please refer to the website of Al Ittihad Newspaper: Click here

61. Read more on Al Ittihad website at the link: Click here

62. Please refer to the website of Al Ittihad Newspaper:Click here
 

The examination of some general indicators demonstrate that due to the wise policies adopted by the State under the leadership of H.H. the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan: The life expectancy average, 2005 – 2010, reached 72.2 years; the percentage of students in university education amounted to 22.5% of youth between 20 and 24; access to the internet was 310.8 per thousand; average general expenditure on education was 1.3% of the GDP ⁽⁶³⁾. The annual growth rate in 2010 was 4% and the GDP per capita, 2010 estimates, was US $49,600 ⁽⁶⁴⁾.
 

According to a report published by Forbes Magazine, of the 15 richest countries in the world in 2010, the United Arab Emirates was sixth with a total GDP per capita of US$ 47,439 ⁽⁶⁵⁾.
 

The UAE was number one in the world in ‘efficiency of financial policies’ according to the report ‘Global Competitiveness 2012’; it was classified as the first regionally in the index of ‘ease of business’ according to the annual book of competitiveness 2012 report ⁽⁶⁶⁾ issued by the International Administrative Development Institute ⁽⁶⁷⁾ ; the Global Economic Forum in Switzerland ⁽⁶⁸⁾classified the UAE as the first regionally and the fourth globally in the field of electronic security.
 

The Emirates was also classified first amongst Arab countries and the twenty third globally in the ‘Economies Based on Innovation’ section of the ‘Report of Global Competitiveness’ (2011 – 2012) which is about a country’s ability to encourage innovation and knowledge to improve their economics in order to compete globally ⁽⁶⁹⁾. The UAE regularly achieves record numbers or notable progress in many fields ⁽⁷⁰⁾. Etisalat received the award of the Best Service Provider in the Middle East in 2012 ⁽⁷¹⁾.
 
________________________________________
 

63.We obtained this data from: Bertrand Baddi and Sanrine Toloti (supervision), situations of the world 2008, Arab Thought Establishment, Beirut, 1st Edition, 2008; pp 544-546
 

64.Website of Abu Dhabi University: Click here

65.Website of Forbes in English, at the link: Click here

66.Please refer to the website of Al Ittihad Newspaper: Click here
 

67.Please refer to the website of Al Ittihad Newspaper: Click here
 

68.Please refer to the website of Al Ittihad Newspaper: Click here

69.Read more on the website of Al Ittihad Newspaper at the link: click here

70. Al Ittihad Newspaper. UAE classified seventh worldwide in the number of international passengers; 82 Million and kept the second position in the passengers growth rate according to the statement made by Hussain Al Dabbas, Vice Chief Executive Officer for MENA in International Air Transportation Association (IATA). 

71. Al Ittihad Newspaper: Economic Supplement: Monday 5th Moharram 1434H / corresponding to 19th November 2012.
 

There are many schools, universities and professional training centres in the UAE. The focus on education and the development of human resources is a result of the leadership of the country by Sheikh Zayed.  H.H. the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, who continued to focus on people, to consider them the true wealth of the country. Many giant projects have been completed as a result of this focus.
 

Sheikh Zayed’s words on this subject, “I always said, with strong belief, that the human being is the axis and the basis of culture and our care for him is necessary because he is the centre of every progress ⁽⁷²⁾، no matter how many facilities, schools, hospitals, bridges and otherwise that we build, this will remain a material entity without spirit because the spirit of all of this is the human being who is capable with his mind, effort and faith to achieve the desired progress”. He also said, “Wealth is not the wealth of money، it is the wealth of men، they are the true power that gives us pride and the plant that shades us، the strength of belief in this truth has enabled us to direct all our efforts to developing the human being ⁽⁷³⁾ .
 

His Highness the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, followed the strategy of his predecessor and he is truly the best successor of the best predecessor. He considered developing people a priority. This can clearly be seen in his speeches and his efforts in this field. It can also be seen in the country’s qualitative shift under his rein in the fields of education, training and knowledge.
 

When the Union was formed in 1971, there were only 74 schools. In 2000 this number increased to 1,150 schools that received 650,000 male and female students. In 2001, education received the largest share of the UAE’s budget ⁽⁴⁷⁾. The state laid down a new strategy, Education Vision 2020 to develop education by using the most effective educational programs and curriculums ⁽⁷⁵⁾ . This vision is based on a comprehensive vision for the different components of education. The state allocated 46% of its general budget for 2001 to education, health and society ⁽⁷⁶⁾.
 

In 2011, there were 1,400 public and private schools and 50 universities throughout the Emirates including prestigious international universities ⁽⁷⁷⁾ such as New York , the Sorbonne and others. According to ‘The Global Observatory Forum’ in Malaysia in 2012, the Emirates hosts the largest number of international university branches, 37, which is 19% of branches globally ⁽⁷⁸⁾.
 

Of particular pride is the emphasis these universities have placed on scientific research which is the foundation of scientific advancement. For example, Emirates University in Al Ain adopted an ambitious scientific research programme and since 2010 it has financed 473 research projects, so far registering 24 patents in various fields ⁽⁷⁹⁾.
 

Other educational opportunities include student exchange delegations that the state arranges every year with the most prominent universities in the world, in fields that are vital for developing people who are capable of leading their country in the twenty first century. There are intensive training courses held inside and outside the country for the same purpose. The state has established institutes and colleges specialized in micro scientific fields that the country needs, these include: The Masdar Science and Technology Institute which is specialized in renewable energy research; the Emirates Aviation College which has played an important role in preparing leaders and training them in air control and aviation engineering and the “Polytechnic Abu Dhabi” University which is specialized in nuclear engineering. It is attached to another major establishment, the Applied Technology Institute.
 

This attention to human development is what made the Emirates assume a prominent position in this area. The UAE is classified first in the Arab world and 30th worldwide in the index of human development for 2011. Under the auspices of H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Presidential Affairs, in the capital city of Abu Dhabi a report ‘Human Development 2011’ was launched. It was hosted by the Emirates Strategic Studies and Research Centre and organized under the UN Developmental Program and the Economic Development Department in Abu Dhabi and the Emirates Competitiveness Council ⁽⁸⁰⁾.
 

His Highness Sheikh Zayed developed the Emirates’ vision to nurture people, considering them the true wealth of the country. H.H. the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan followed the path of his father and made further achievements in this field. On the occasion of the thirty ninth National Day, H.H. the late Sheikh Khalifa said, “Dear loyal sons of our country, at a time when the age of our state approaches its fortieth year, we confirm to you that our country is witnessing prosperity, strength and security. The plants of our father bore fruit. We are continuing to use best practices to build the state and its corporate, organizational and legal frameworks; paving the way for a strong and diversified economy, advanced infrastructure and sustainable social development. Our cultural and social organizations are moving ahead with confidence, enhancing national identity and developing people on the land of our beloved country because people are the true wealth of nations and the basis of the renaissance of countries.”
 

“Since the rise of our state, we were keen to continuously grow this wealth through investment in its young assets, through upbringing, education, training and care in order to prepare an enterprising generation with a deep sense of loyalty and belonging who participate in managing their society and maintaining the heritage of its people. The values of the Union will continue to be the guiding light for all generations, underpin sustainable national development and active participation between the state and citizens to build a common future. The Second of December will always be a glorious occasion from which we will take lessons and when we renew our vow of loyalty, devotion and sacrifice for the country”.
 

Sheikh Zayed said, “Today, when we look at the state of the Union we see the vast green areas in our country and witness hundreds of industrial projects and networks of roads, ports and airports. The State did not just provide basic services; it dedicated all its energies and abilities to serve the sons of the country, improving the living conditions and providing a better life to all citizens. The meaning of the Union is happiness to all and I don’t think that there is a reasonable citizen who denies their happiness, satisfaction and strength ⁽⁸¹⁾.
 
________________________________________

72.Amal Al Subah, Sheikh of the Arabs, Sheikh Zayed; ibid, pp 70.

73.Ibid; page 70.

74.Emirates Strategic Research and Studies (prepared) with the power of the Union/ H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan the Leader and the State; ibid, pp 304.

75.Ibid; pp 304 - 305.

76.The website of Al Khaleej Newspaper:Click here

77.The website of Al Khaleej Newspaper: Click here

78.Website of Knowledge and Human Development Authority (Dubai): Click here

79.Read the details in Al Ittihad Newspaper, Report by: Mohsin Al Boushi, titled: “Emirates University finances 474 research projects within 35 months”: Friday, 2nd Moharram 1434H / corresponding to 16th November 2012.

80.Website of Al Khaleej Newspaper: Click here

81.Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Wise of the Arabs Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, ibid; pp 82.

Sheikh Zayed saw woman as the foundation of growth and future generations and therefore launched a women’s empowerment project saying, “I encourage woman’s work in positions that are appropriate for her nature and in a manner that maintains her respect and dignity as a mother and the maker of generations ⁽⁸²⁾. He also said, “Women must represent us in women’s conferences abroad in order to communicate the development of the country, to be an image that honours us, our society and the religion that granted all her rights ⁽⁸³⁾.”

 
Empowerment of women was not limited to government efforts, as the civil and national community developed, women played a pioneering role. The flag was carried by H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairman of the General Women’s Federation. With the support of Sheikh Zayed, she participated prominently in woman’s development and empowerment. This enabled Emirati women to develop themselves and their abilities until they participated with men in all public and private areas and at international forums mentioned earlier.

 
The General Women’s Federation was established under the chairmanship of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, UAE Mother, the wife of H.H. Sheikh Zayed, on 27th August 1975. The Federation’s role is to promote and empower women in cooperation and coordination with government departments in fields related to women ⁽⁸⁴⁾. Today, this Federation has become active in the Arab, regional and international federations.
 

H.H. the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, followed in the steps of his father, empowering women in different fields until they assumed a high position in public and private. In his speech, delivered on the occasion of the Thirty Ninth National Day, H.H. encouraged empowerment of women and the development of society; H.H. saying, “We are keen to enable women and provide several choices for youth in addition to supporting them, protecting motherhood and childhood, taking care of elders and minors and giving attention to people with special needs. Out of our absolute belief that nations do not rise except with scientific progress, during the previous federal year we allocated the major part of the federal budget for education and focused on designing educational plans and programs that will develop education in the country and we passed a law to establish the National Qualifications Authority. The health sector also received all necessary support”. Therefore, the Emirate became an example of equality between sexes in all fields “and a model for human development that takes care of people, improving his living standard at all levels ⁽⁸⁵⁾.”
 

A 2012 Global Economic Forum report said, “The United Arab Emirates continued to lead the Arab region for the third year consecutively in the field of women’s economic participation. In addition, the UAE held the first position globally, jointly, in terms of equality between males and females in education and in the four main branches on which the index measures the gap between the two sexes “receiving health care, education, political participation and economic equality ⁽⁸⁶⁾.”
 

The success of the empowerment of women policy in the Emirates made the United Nations elect the UAE as a member of the ‘Executive Council of the UN Organization of Equality of Sexes and Women’s Empowerment’ for the period from early 2013 until the end of December 2015.
 

The Emirates Constitution established the legal framework for empowering women when it secured equality between men and women in the work place. Article 35 provides that, “Public positions are open for all citizens on the basis of equality between them in conditions according to law ⁽⁸⁷⁾.” The constitution also granted women their full rights as human beings, whilst bearing obligations as citizens, deserving all appreciation and respect according to Islamic Sharia, international treaties and human rights rules.
 

According to the Index ‘Gap between Sexes’ issued by the Global Economic Forum, the United Arab Emirates is considered a model of human development at all levels. It was first in the Arab world in 2011 in the Human Development report issued by the UN Developmental Program ⁽⁸⁸⁾.
 

Thanks to the empowerment policy under the wise leadership of H.H. the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Emirati women have entered all leading administrative, technical and other fields. Today, she is a Judge, Minister, Executive Manager, Parliament Member, Captain, Doctor, University Instructor, Elementary and High School Instructor. Women’s participation in public life has increased; she represents 65% of the workforce in some government ministries ⁽⁸⁹⁾.
 

Women play a major role in the building spectacular that the country is witnessing; in the government, business and commerce, media, technologies and sciences, academic and creative life sectors. The percentage of women who can read and write in the Emirates is 91% which is higher than men. 77% of women (compared to 24% of men) continue their higher education which is the highest of its kind in the world ⁽⁹⁰⁾. The Emirates was classified 30th worldwide and the first in the Arab world in the Index of ‘Empowerment of Woman’ in the 2011 UN Developmental Program ‘Global Human Development Report’ ⁽⁹¹⁾.
 

Women leaders in the Emirates obtained leadership and management certificates in the United Kingdom ⁽⁹²⁾. 25 outstanding Emirati female students were recently selected for training at the National Aerospace Agency (NASA). This is a qualitative development in the field of empowerment and equality between the two sexes and reflects the general intention of the state toward the implementation of the education development strategy adopted by H.H. the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed ⁽⁹³⁾.
 
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82. Amal Al Subah, Sheikh of the Arabs; ibid, pp 103. 

83. Ibid; pp 103.
 

84. The President’s Court (Documents and Research Centre) / Ministry of Education and Youth, Zayed and the Woman, 1st Edition, 1425/2004; pp 108 and thereafter.

85. The bulletin: “News of the Hour”: Emirates is keen to empower women and it became the model of equality between sexes – Al Ittihad Newspaper: Click here
 

86. ibid. 

87. Constitution of the United Arab Emirates and its amendments; ibid.
 

88. The bulletin: “News of the Hour”: Emirates is keen to empower women and it became the model of equality between sexes – Al Ittihad Newspaper: Click here
 

89. Mr. Humaid Al Qitami Minister of Education, Development of Human Resources in the United Arab Emirates: Challenges and horizons in the future in: Cultural Season Book (2010), H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan Cultural Media Centre, Abu Dhabi; 1st Edition, 2010, pp 103.
 

90. According to the statement of H.E Reem Al Hashimi, Minister of State; please refer to: The Emirati woman had proven her success in the government, financial and industrial sectors – Al Ittihad Newspaper: Click here
 

91. ibid.
 
92. For more information, please refer to the website of Forbes Magazine: Click here 
 

93. The bulletin of News of the Hour, Emirates Strategic Studies and Research, report titled: “Educational Outputs”, quoted from Al Ittihad Newspaper: Friday, 2nd Moharram 1434H / corresponding to 16th November 2012
 

On 12th February 1972, before the Federal National Council, Sheikh Zayed announced that the foreign policy of the State ⁽⁹⁴⁾ is based on fixed principles namely, “Strengthening bonds of friendship and cooperation with all countries and nations on the basis of UN principles and model international morality”. In all its international relations, the UAE firmly applied these principles. It settles all its disputes amicably and according to international legitimacy and international law. This policy is followed by the State to recover its occupied islands namely, Greater and Lesser Tunbs and Abu Mousa.
 

Sheikh Zayed defined four United Arab Emirates foreign policy sections: Gulf section, Arab section, Islamic section and International section ⁽⁹⁵⁾. At the Gulf level, the foreign policy of the United Arab Emirates pushed forward the Arab Gulf states unification. Only 10 years after the unification of the Emirates, with his wisdom and insight, Sheikh Zayed was able to play a prominent role in establishing the Gulf Cooperation Council. In February 1981, he presided over its first meeting in Abu Dhabi where the council was established. The Emirates continued to follow the cooperation and integration policy with their brothers in the Arab Gulf.
 

The UAE built bridges of communication and cooperation with all Arab countries from the Atlantic Ocean to the Arabian Gulf. Article Four of the ‘Articles of Association of the Gulf Cooperation Council’ included the principles that Sheikh Zayed had always preached, “To achieve coordination, integration and close connection between the member countries in all fields in order to reach unity”. The Palestinian cause was the centre of the United Arab Emirates’ attention. When Israel launched its aggression against the Arabs in 1967, Sheikh Zayed utilized the State to support his Arab brothers. He imposed an embargo on oil exports to the United States and made his famous statement: “Money is not more precious than blood and oil is not more precious than Arab blood ⁽⁹⁶⁾.
 

The UAE continued to call for international law to be applied, that acknowledges the right of the Palestinian people to establish its own independent state. It held an international conference under the auspices of the UN focusing on how Palestinians could achieve a state and self-determination, which are fixed principles that may not be compromised. The UAE called on the international community to stop the injustice towards the Palestinian people; to protect them from the acts of violence and terrorism they suffer under the Israeli occupation. The UAE considers the intensive Jewish migration to Palestine as a threat to the area that changes the political, military and demographic characteristics of the region ⁽⁹⁷⁾.
 

At the Islamic level, the efforts of the UAE to support Muslims everywhere are well known. Sheikh Zayed expressed this by saying, “The call that is resonating all over the world encourages cooperation and joint effort in the interest of humanity and peace. The teachings of the Holy Quran call all people to cooperation, joint effort, devotion, love and peace. It is most appropriate for such cooperation to take place among the Islamic countries ⁽⁹⁸⁾.” Therefore, the Emirates provided generous aid to those Islamic countries that needed it, in compliance with its Islamic and moral duty and it supported Muslim causes in all fields.”
 

At the international level, the policy of the Emirates is to enhance the state’s relations with the rest of the world according to the principles of equality, justice, mutual respect and love for goodness to all without exception. Sheikh Zayed said, “The State of the Emirates is keen to develop friendly relations with other countries in order to serve the goodness and interests of the people of the UAE and the world ⁽⁹⁹⁾.
 

The Emirates supported all right and just causes in the United Nations and other international organizations. In this way, the Emirates played a significant role establishing international relations based on peace and stability. Sheikh Zayed expressed this when he said, “The pioneering position that the Emirates State holds on the international relations stage is the fruit of our moderate foreign policy which supports justice and resorts to dialogue and understanding between brothers and friends. It respects international covenants and laws, complies with the United Nations Charter and observes the rules of ‘good-neighbour’ policy, sovereignty of the state, unity of its lands and does not interfere in others’ internal affairs and tends to solve disputes peacefully ⁽¹⁰⁰⁾.”
 

H.H. the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed talked about the State’s foreign policy goals, principles and humanitarian diplomacy in his speech on the occasion of the Thirty Ninth National Day, “Our humanitarian policy is one of the main pillars of our foreign policy. The State will continue its central role by supporting international efforts during crisis and catastrophes, to answer the call for help. It will continue as a role model by investing in developing countries and offering them grants and soft loans in order to achieve sustainable economic growth that provides them with stability and ensures more job opportunities for citizens.
 

“Although we condemn all forms of terrorism, we express our concern for the increasing phenomenon of Islam hatred and we call upon the international community to prevent the continued abuse of the Islamic religion and provoking hatred against Muslim minorities”. H.H. added, “Our foreign policy is based on principles of peaceful coexistence, ‘good-neighbour’ policy, mutual respect and enhancing cooperative relations, non-interference in the internal affairs of countries, adopting peaceful means to settle differences and to resort to International laws, respecting ‘the other’ and consulting with him in order to achieve peace and stability.
 

“According to these established principles, we repeat the call to our neighbour, Iran, to respond to our calls to find a fair settlement to the issue of our three occupied islands Greater and Lesser Tunbs and Abu Mousa. Honest intentions and a strong will to solve outstanding problems is the first step to ensure continuing peace and stability in the region”.
 

H.H. the UAE President has followed in the steps of his father by leading the state with wisdom and insight. He finished establishing the constitution, a political structure and led the country towards comprehensive development in social, economic, cultural and structural fields. The wheels of the Union are turning confidently towards progress and achieving prosperity for citizens. In time, the Emirates became the role model of development, prosperity, stability and development under the wise leadership of H.H. the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his brothers the Rulers of the Emirates.

 
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94. About the foreign policy of the United Arab Emirates; please refer to: Dr. Naif Ali Obaid, Foreign policy of the United Arab Emirates between Theory and Application, University Studies and Publishing Establishment, Beirut, 1st Edition, 1425/2004, Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Wise of the Arabs Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan; ibid, pp 189 - 223.
 

95. Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Wisdom of the Arabs Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan; ibid, pp 192.

96. Dr. Mohammed Hassan Al Aidaros, The Emirates between Past and Present, Al Aidaros Modern Book House, Dubai, Cairo, , Kuwait, Algeria, 1422/2002; pp 206 - 207.

97.Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Wisdom of the Arabs Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan; ibid, pp 196 - 197.

98. Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Wisdom of the Arabs Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan; ibid, pp 198-199.

99. Abdullah Rashid Ahmad Al Murr Al Kaabi, wonder words from the wisdom of the Arabs, Al Khalidiya Commercial Printing Press, Abu Dhabi, 1st Edition, 2003; pp 171.

100. Abdullah Rashid Ahmad Al Murr Al Kaabi, wonder words from the wisdom of the Arabs; ibid, pp 172
 

The vision of H.H. the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, derives from a wider perspective that reaches beyond the oil era to planning for the post-oil era, that is, a future based on knowledge ⁽¹⁰¹⁾. Since he was young, since he was the Crown Prince, he understood that the time of oil revenues will definitely pass, H.H. said, “We are thinking about how to face the future when the oil finishes, by diversifying the sources of national income،” however, what is important is “building the people of this land because he is the true wealth; money does not last but knowledge remains ⁽¹⁰²⁾.”
 

The future UAE will be established on science and its economy on knowledge and entering the age of innovation and invention, in other words, to go beyond importing to becoming a producer, in harmony with the vision of H.H. the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and his brothers the Rulers of Emirates. There are challenges related to the cultural and national identity particularly in terms of demographics where there are apparent disorders that should be treated in a manner that ensures stability and prosperity of the State. On the Thirty Sixth National Day, H.H. said, “Our future and national identity are connected by roots and destiny to the population composition”.

There is another challenge that is no less important and is related to the population challenge: It is the gap between the inputs and outputs of education and the quantitative and qualitative achievements of the education system. The State is spending billions of Dirhams on education every year, expecting quality achievements. From this, other challenges emerge such as the demographic and nationalization challenges. This gap must be filled and the leadership is working to achieve this goal.
 
________________________________________
 

101.Sheikh Zayed، the dream comes true and hope is manifested; at: forum of Sheikh Zayed the life and the march; ibid, pp 42.

102. He said that in an interview with the Italian press delegation that accompanied the Italian Minister of Commerce in a visit to the UAE on 9th October 1987; quoted from: The Office of Deputy Prime Minister for Information Affairs, Khalifa bin Zayed… and building the generations (prepared), Abu Dhabi, 2005, pp 15-16; quoted from: “Sheikh Zayed ، the dream comes true and the hope is manifested” at: Sheikh Zayed Forum the Story and the March; ibid, pp 42.
 

 1. References in Arabic:
- Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Zayed the Wisdom of the Arabs, University Library, Al Azarita – Alexandria, 2000.

- Khalid bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the United Arab Emirates; March of Leader and Will of Nation, first book, Modern Book Establishment (Beirut)/ Arab Culture House (Sharjah), Edition 1, 1992.

- Amal Al Subah, Sheikh of the Arabs, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, printed at Akhbar El Youm Printing Press (Egypt).

- Dr. Fatima Al Sayegh, United Arab Emirates from tribe to state, university book house, Al Ain, 2000.

-  Forum of Sheikh Zayed the life and the march (the book of first session 2010) Cultural Media Centre of H.H Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi, 2010.

- Works Department in Abu Dhabi: Achievement of 25 years of building; Al Ittihad Press and Publishing Establishment, Abu Dhabi, 1412H/1991.

- Zayed, the story of glory and pride of the union: reading in the British documents and the Arab and Foreign Media 1968 – 1971, Zayed Culture and History Centre, Al Ain (UAE), 1st Edition 1426H/2005.

- With the power of the union/ His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan the Leader and the State, Emirates Strategic Researches and Studies Center Abu Dhabi, Edition 2, 2005.

- Jean Pierre Varnie, Globalization of Culture, translated by Abdul Jalil Al Azadi, Egyptian Lebanese House, 1 Edition, Cairo, 1423/2003;

- Dr. Nawaf Kanaan, Constitutional and Political System of the United Arab Emirates, the University Bookshop, Sharjah/ Ithraa Publishing and Distribution House, Jordan, 1st Edition, 2008;

- Ahmad bin Shabib Al Dhahiri, ((the Federal National Council: Experience and Horizon)) in: Cultural Season Book (2010), H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan Cultural Media Centre, Abu Dhabi, 2010;

- Dr. Mohammed Abed Al Jabiri, Democracy and Human Rights, Arab Unity Studies Centre, Beirut, 3rd Edition, 2004;

- Bertrand Baddi and Sanrine Toloti (supervision), situations of the world 2008, Arab Thought Establishment, Beirut, 1st Edition, 2008;

- Mr. Humaid Al Qitami Minister of Education, Development of Human Resources in the United Arab Emirates: Challenges and horizons in the future in: Cultural Season Book (2010), H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan Cultural Media Centre, Abu Dhabi; 1st Edition, 2010;

- Dr. Naif Ali Obaid, Foreign policy of the United Arab Emirates between Theory and Application, University Studies and Publishing Establishment, Beirut, 1st Edition, 1425/2004;

- Dr. Mohammed Hassan Al Aidaros, The Emirates between Past and Present, Al Aidaros Modern Book House, Dubai, Cairo, , Kuwait, Algeria, 1422/2002; pp 206 – 207;

- Abdullah Rashid Ahmad Al Murr Al Kaabi, wonder words from the wise of the Arabs, Al Khalidiya Commercial Printing Press, Abu Dhabi, 1st Edition, 2003; pp 171;
- The President’s Court (Documents and Research Centre) / Ministry of Education and Youth, Zayed and the Woman, 1st Edition, 1425/2004.


 
2. Constitutions:
- French Constitution (Constitution of 4th October 1985) according to the amendments of 23rd July 2008, presentation and translation by Dr. Mohammed Khairi Al Wakeel, Dar Al Nahda Al Arabiya, Cairo (D. T.)

- Constitution of the United Arab Emirates and its amendments

 
3. References in Foreign Languages:
- Seveinn Einarsson, Language –a tool for communication or a cornerstone of our cultural diversity? In: The Art of Impossible?: Multilingualism and access to cyberspace, The Norwegian National Commission for UNESCO, Norway, 1999.

- Sally Findlow, The United Arab Emirates: Nationalism and Arab-Islamic Identity, Abu Dhabi: The Emirates Centre for Strategic Studies and Research, 2000, Emirates Occasional Papers. 

 
4. Websites:
- Dar Al Khaleej website: Click here
- British Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Commonwealth website: Click here