
The UAE: A Comprehensive Overview
Exploring the history, economy, and opportunities in the United Arab Emirates
By Dreamgate Research Team
International Business Specialists
The UAE
On December 2nd 1971, a historic accord established the United Arab Emirates, a sovereign federation guided by the visionary leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. This act of unification marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey of united development and national identity for seven ‘Emirates’ across the Arabian peninsula.
Located at the crossroads of continents, the UAE was strategically destined to become an economical powerhouse. And through decades of shrewd business decisions i.e. attracting global investment through tax-exemptions and benefits; a diverse and skilled workforce and world-class infrastructure, the UAE carved itself to be a global economic-hub.
The Emirates
The UAE is a collective of seven ‘emirates’, which in simpler terms means city-states.
Among the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi and Dubai stand out as global icons. Their renown stems from a diverse array of factors. Both boast a thriving business environment, attracting international companies with a combination of financial benefits, favorable tax structures, and a streamlined business landscape.
Beyond their commercial allure, these emirates captivate tourists as well. From the vibrant cityscapes to awe-inspiring feats of engineering – like the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, and the man-made palm-shaped islands – Dubai and Abu Dhabi consistently capture the world's imagination.
While Abu Dhabi and Dubai may steal the spotlight, the five remaining emirates of the UAE – Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, Sharjah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain – possess their own distinct charm and rich heritage. These established states offer unique experiences for travelers seeking an alternative to Dubai's bustling metropolis.
Sharjah, for instance, has emerged as a regional leader in education, while Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah provide a more authentic Arabian experience. Visitors can immerse themselves in breathtaking desert landscapes and discover a slower pace of life, far removed from the city's glitz and glamour.
The Riches (and the Oil)
The UAE's strategic location at the crossroads of continents isn't its only advantage. The nation is also richly endowed with natural resources, particularly oil and gas. In fact, the UAE ranks as the world's third-largest oil producer, boasting estimated reserves of 98 billion barrels. This resource wealth, alongside the UAE's position as the seventh-largest natural gas producer, has served as a powerful engine for the country's phenomenal growth.
The impact of this oil and gas bounty is evident in the UAE's impressive economic performance. With a GDP per capita exceeding $37,000, the UAE ranks among the highest in the world. This economic strength reflects not just the oil and gas reserves, but also a high-income level for citizens, well-developed infrastructure, and a thriving non-oil sector. While oil remains a significant contributor, the UAE is actively diversifying its economy to ensure continued prosperity in the future.
Life in the UAE
Life in the UAE is a tapestry of cultures.
With a dense population of 9.8 million , the UAE is a melting pot of cultures. Attracted by its allure and opportunities, people from practically every country travel to the UAE resulting in the world’s most diverse culture of more than 200 nationalities. In fact, the expatriates communities from India and Pakistan outnumber Emiratis and Arabs in select regions.
Beyond the two mentioned South Asian communities, a vibrant mix of Egyptians, Jordanians, Palestinians, Syrians, and even Bangladeshis also enrich UAE's cultural tapestry. And despite, the multitude of languages present, communication remains surprisingly seamless. English serves as an intermediary and Modern Arabic serves as the official language, providing a common ground for interaction.
The land of Opportunities.
The UAE's relentless growth has fueled a voracious appetite for skilled talent. This has positioned the country as a global leader in attracting professionals from around the world. Fueled by its robust economy and continuous expansion, the UAE offers a wealth of opportunities across diverse sectors. For skilled individuals, the UAE presents a compelling proposition: a thriving environment where talent unlocks success in sectors such as:
- Information technology (IT) professionals
- Engineers
- Data scientists
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Specialists
- Cybersecurity Experts
- Blockchain Developers
- Doctors and nurses
- Business professionals
- Teachers
- Sales and marketing professionals
- Hospitality workers
- Construction workers
- Oil and gas workers
For ambitious individuals, success in the UAE transcends mere professional achievement. It's a life-changing experience. The UAE's affluent economy translates into the country ranking highly in regards to worker compensation. Skilled professionals receive top salaries that reflect their effort and expertise. This, coupled with the satisfaction of contributing to a dynamic environment, makes the UAE a magnet for talent seeking to propel their careers and lifestyles to new heights.

The United Arab Emirates stands as a testament to visionary leadership and strategic development. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a global economic powerhouse, the UAE continues to evolve and adapt to changing global dynamics.