The “Emirates” is a common term used to refer to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a federation of seven emirates located in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula.

Area & Population:

The UAE’s total area is approximately 83,600 square kilometers. The country has a population of around 11.3 million people as of 2025, with a high percentage of expatriates, who make up about 88% of the total population.

Language:
The official language of the UAE is Arabic. English is widely spoken and is the primary language of business and tourism. Due to the large expatriate population, other languages like Hindi, Urdu, Malayalam, and Bengali are also commonly used.

Currency:
The currency of the UAE is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED).

Religion:
Islam is the official religion of the UAE. However, the country has a policy of religious tolerance, and non-Muslims are free to practice their own religions in designated places of worship.

Capital & Major Cities:

• Capital: Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE and the largest emirate by area. It is a major financial, industrial, and cultural hub.
• Major Cities: The UAE is a collection of city-states, with each emirate having its own major urban center. The most prominent cities are:
  • Dubai: The most famous emirate, known for its futuristic skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and vibrant tourism industry.
  • Sharjah: The third-largest city, often referred to as the “Cultural Capital of the UAE” due to its numerous museums and art institutions.
  • Al Ain: A large oasis city within the Abu Dhabi emirate, known for its greenery and historical sites.
  • Ajman: The smallest of the emirates, with a growing waterfront and residential areas.
  • Ras Al Khaimah: Known for its rugged mountains, beaches, and historic sites.
  • Fujairah: The only emirate located entirely on the eastern coast, facing the Gulf of Oman.
  • Umm Al Quwain: The second smallest and least populated emirate, known for its tranquil beaches and mangrove areas.

Attractions & Wonders:

The UAE is a global tourist destination, offering a mix of modern wonders, cultural experiences, and natural landscapes.

• Dubai:
  • Burj Khalifa: The world’s tallest building, with observation decks offering panoramic views.
  • The Dubai Mall: One of the world’s largest shopping malls, featuring an aquarium, an ice rink, and the Dubai Fountain.
  • Palm Jumeirah: An artificial archipelago shaped like a palm tree, home to luxury hotels and residences.
  • Museum of the Future: An architectural marvel and a center for futuristic innovation.
• Abu Dhabi:
  • Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: A stunning architectural masterpiece, one of the world’s largest and most beautiful mosques.
  • Louvre Abu Dhabi: A modern art and civilization museum with a unique, perforated dome design.
  • Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: An indoor theme park on Yas Island, home to the world’s fastest roller coaster.
  • Yas Island: A leisure and entertainment destination with theme parks like Yas Waterworld and Yas Marina Circuit.
• Other Emirates:
  • Hatta (Dubai): A mountain exclave known for its heritage village and outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking.
  • Ras Al Khaimah: Offers mountainous adventures, ziplining, and historical forts.
  • Sharjah: Features the Blue Souk (Central Souk), the Sharjah Art Museum, and a rich heritage area.

Architecture:

UAE architecture is a striking blend of traditional Islamic and modern, futuristic designs. The use of glass, steel, and advanced engineering is prominent in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where skyscrapers compete for world records. Traditional architecture is still preserved in historical districts, featuring coral stone houses, wind towers, and intricate latticework.

Roads:
The UAE has a modern and extensive network of highways and roads, connecting all the major cities and emirates. The infrastructure is well-maintained and designed for high-speed travel, making it easy to drive across the country.

Hotels:
The UAE is famous for its luxury hotels and resorts. You can find everything from seven-star hotels like the Burj Al Arab in Dubai to world-class resorts on the beaches of Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah, as well as a wide range of mid-range and budget options.

Restaurants & Cuisine:

The UAE’s cuisine is a melting pot of global flavors, reflecting its diverse population.

• Traditional Emirati Cuisine:
  • Al Harees: A dish of wheat and meat, slow-cooked to a porridge-like consistency.
  • Machboos: A spiced rice dish with meat (chicken, lamb, or fish).
  • Luqaimat: Sweet, fried dumplings drizzled with date syrup.
• Dining Scene: The country, especially Dubai and Abu Dhabi, is a culinary powerhouse with thousands of restaurants offering every cuisine imaginable, from fine dining by celebrity chefs to casual cafes and street food.