The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates, set on the Arabian Gulf coast of the Arabian Peninsula, neighboured by Saudi Arabia and Oman. Formed in 1971, the country is headed by the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler of Abu Dhabi, and governed by a Supreme Council of Rulers made up of the leaders of the seven emirates.

Each of the seven emirates – Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain – enjoy administrative and financial independence within the federal law.

Over the last 50 years, the UAE has grown from a number of small fishing and pearling villages, to one of the economic powerhouses of the Middle East, largely fuelled by the oil wealth, which was developed early on by the country’s first president, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The export revenues were ploughed into infrastructure development as well as healthcare and education for the national population, which has resulted in a politically and financially stable economy.

A clear policy of economic diversification has seen the reliance on the oil and gas industry reduced considerably over the last 10 years, with hydrocarbon income falling to around 25% of GDP. The country's Free Trade Zones, offering 100% foreign ownership and zero taxes, attract foreign investors from all sectors.

Foreign workers and investment have poured into the country, giving Abu Dhabi and Dubai particularly a very cosmopolitan feel and outlook. Expatriates from around the world make up approximately 75% of the population. English is very widely spoken in both business and social circles.

Although a Muslim country, ruled under Sharia law, the UAE is one of the most liberal countries in the Gulf, with other cultures and beliefs widely tolerated.