The UAE is a federal constitutional monarchy in Southwest Asia, divided into seven emirates. Abu Dhabi is the capital city and home to nearly half of the population. The country has an arid climate and is known for its scenic beaches and expensive resorts. The UAE has a better track record than some of its neighbors when it comes to protecting human rights, but labor rights are practically non-existent and the sex industry is alive in the country. Homosexuality is illegal and criticism of Islam is punishable by prison.
The UAE, sometimes known simply as the Emirates, sits against Saudi Arabia and Oman in Southwest Asia. Known locally as Al Imarat al Arabiyah al Muttahidah, the United Arab Emirates covers an area of 32,278 square miles (83,600 km²), divided into seven emirates or royal territories. Previously known as Trucial Oman or Pirate Coast, the UAE is a federal constitutional monarchy, under the control of the heir to the Al Nahyan clan. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was the head of government for 30 years, until his death in 2004.
Abu Dhabi, the capital city, has a population of 1,850,230, which is nearly half of the total population of the UAE. Abu Dhabi is a modern city characterized by skyscrapers, busy shopping streets and a series of beautifully designed urban parks. The UAE is also notable because 75% of its population is made up of foreigners, mainly from India, the UK and Egypt. In the UAE, there are about ten men for every six women, a higher percentage than anywhere else in the world.
The UAE has an arid climate, with summer temperatures regularly reaching 110ºC. Dust storms and fog are also common, but rain is rare. Winter temperatures rarely drop below 40ºF (60ºC). Scenic beaches and expensive resorts can be found on the Persian Gulf, attracting wealthy visitors from all over the world. Sand dunes are the most common terrain outside cities, although mountains and coastal plains can also be found. There is very little natural fresh water available, which means the government spends a lot of money on desalination plants.
The UAE has a better track record than some of its neighbors when it comes to protecting human rights. Former Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was known for his religious tolerance and for granting freedom of the press. Internet access, however, is controlled and Internet telephony (VoIP) and chat rooms are mostly blocked. Labor rights are practically non-existent, especially for immigrants, and the sex industry, including sex slaves and child prostitution, is alive in the country, especially in Dubai. Homosexuality is illegal in the UAE and is punishable by the death penalty. Press freedom is relatively high compared to other Middle Eastern countries, but criticism of Islam is not allowed and is punishable by prison.
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