United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates, also referred to as UAE, is actually seven supreme sheikhdoms, all formed as the British withdrew from the Gulf in the late 20th century. Although this particular part of the world was unknown, today, travel companies are now encouraging travelers to venture to the UAE, a magnificent land of contrast.

As you look around, you will find literally every type of environment possible to include beautiful beaches, rugged mountains, isolated deserts, and various lifestyles from camel racing to duty-free shopping to Bedouin markets. Although the area is small, it certainly packs a big punch. When traveling to the Gulf, the United Arab Emirates is truly a relaxing place that is designed to pamper tourists.

Best of all, this area of the country is deemed safe for tourists although you should stay away from any type of political groups and gatherings, as well as demonstrations. Other than that, you will have an enjoyable time, having the chance to see and experience a magnificent place. Interestingly, it is estimated that settlers were living in the UAE in the Bronze Age. Then in the 3rd century, the Umm an-Nar culture rose, extending its influence far into the interior, as well as the coast of today’s Oman.

The next culture making its presence in the UAE was the Greeks with their strong Hellenistic features. However, by the Middle Ages, the larger part of this region was part of the Hormuz kingdom, controlling the entrance into the Gulf, along with the majority of trade. By 1498, the Portuguese came and in 1515, Julfar had been occupied. In fact, the Portuguese built custom homes that put a real strain on the growing trade with India and the Far East. Even so, the Portuguese people stayed in the UAE until 1633, being followed by the British in the mid-18th century that started pulling naval rank in the Gulf.

With the British in the Gulf, problems developed with the Qawasim tribal confederation, naming the area the Pirate Coast, and launching numerous raids against the tribe. By 1829, the British fleet had literally captured and destroyed all of the Qawasim ships they could find. However, the British also imposed the General Treaty of Peace on nine of the sheikhdoms, installing a garrison. However, when things began to settle down, European started calling the UAE “Trucial Coast”, a name that stuck until 1971.

The primary power among the Bedouin tribes of the interior was the Bani Yas tribal confederation. This power was comprised of ruling families associated with modern Abu Dhabi and Dubai ancestors. While the Bani Yas first lived in Liwa, they moved in 1793 to Abu Dhabi, becoming involved in the traditional Bedouin activities that included things like agriculture, tribal raiding, and camel herding, and taking money for protection from various caravans that came through the region.

When slavery along the coastal region was abolished by the British, slave trade was taken over by the Bani Yas. At that time, the Buraimi became the main slave market for eastern Arabia, something that remained until the 1950s. With the British not having much interest in the Bedouin, they began to set up communication to India, making sure their competitors of France and Russia stayed away. Soon, the Trucial Coast was established in1892, allowing the UAE area to remain backcountry where people worked as pearl divers and fishermen.

Britain made an announcement in 1968 that it was leaving the Gulf, which was completely unexpected. Interestingly, during this time, UAE was considered by most a disorganized and artificial creation. Even so, the country would become a major international business center, and today, one of the most untroubled and stable countries in the Arab world. Considered a liberal Gulf country, by Westernized standards, the UAE is actually very conservative.

In this region, you will find many small communities made up of various ethnic and religious groups. Although the UAE only has 500,000, the remaining 1.5 million living in the country are made up of individuals from other Gulf countries such as India, Iran, and Pakistan. Although most people speak Arabic, you will find that English is spoken by many locals. In addition to the beauty of the land, the food is exquisite. One of the staples is called Fuul, which is paste made specially, from garlic, lemon, and fava beans. Then you might also try Felafel, deep fried chickpea paste balls served in Arabic flatbread, Shwarma, chicken or lamb served in pita bread or on flatbread, or Houmos, chickpea cooked and made into paste with lemon and garlic.

The country of the United Arab Emirates is bordered in the south and west by Saudi Arabia and Oman to the east. The seven emirates include Ajman, Abu Dhabi, Fjairah, Dubai, Sharjah, Umm al Qaiwain, and Ras al-Khaimah. All of these emirates together are quite large with Abu Dhabi covering 85% and Ajman being jut 100 square miles. Keep in mind that the majority of the interior is actually sand desert, the largest in the world but there are also sand flats and the diversity of environment as discussed.

Because of this diversity, you will find interesting fauna, ibex, the Arabian leopard, camels, and goats, among others. Then during the spring and fall months, you can enjoy watching the migration of birds as they make their way from East Africa and Central Asia. Remember when visiting in the summer, temperatures can reach upwards of 105 degrees, specifically in Dubai and Abu Dhabi so dress accordingly. Temperatures are a little cooler in the cities along the coast, while the mountainous areas are quite nice.

As you make your way through the country, you will fall in love with the wonderful people and the life they represent through their art and festivals. For example, you could visit the Dubai Museum, built during the 19th century. The fort is the oldest building in all of Dubai, displaying many artifacts associated with Dubai history. Of course, there is the Al-Hosn Palace, known more commonly as the White Fort or Old Fort and just one of the few buildings older than 39 in the city of Abu Dhabi. Finally, you might spend some time at the Dhow Wharf and Fish Market where you will discover an excellent and charming fish restaurant, along with a magnificent view of the city.


Last Updated: 10/19/2006 3:14:00 PM

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