Formed in 1971, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a young country, but one with proud traditions and a firm vision for the future prosperity of its citizens. In just four decades, the country has become a highly respected and a valued member of the international community. With a young, growing population and multicultural society, the UAE is rapidly diversifying its economy while remaining true to its core beliefs and values.
The city of Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE, as well as its cultural, political and economic epicenter. Covering 85 percent of the country, the emirate contains a significant proportion of the world’s oil and gas reserves.
The UAE is led today by President H.H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, also the Ruler of Abu Dhabi, and his fellow members of the Supreme Council and Rulers of the six emirates: Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.
The prosperity, harmony and modern development that characterize the UAE is attributed to Sheikh Zayed, both prior to the formation of the federation and in the years that followed until his death in November 2004.
A driving force behind the creation of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed worked tirelessly to achieve his vision of a society with high quality living standards, education, health and housing for all citizens by utilizing oil revenues to fund projects throughout the federation. Sheikh Zayed gained the trust and respect of the international community and managed to establish the Emirates as a global player among the modern industrial countries. He maintained the traditional role of a father-figure to his people, approachable to every citizen to discuss any personal concerns that were brought to him.
Sheikh Zayed combined the image of a modern statesman with the characteristics and values of a traditional tribal leader.
