United Arab Emirates

History Trucial States Pearl Industry Between 1892 and 1971, the British protected the Trucial states (Modern UAE) and ruled them to various degrees. Pearl Industry The industry of the Trucial States was primarily pearling. This industry declined with the invention of Japanese culture pearls, which destroyed the economy of the Trucial states and led to some poverty.

History Independence Creation of UAE In 1971, the British left the states and, under the leadership of the Sheikh Zayed bin Aultan Al Nahyan the United Arab Emirates was established. Creation of UAE The seven Trucial States formed a government in which Sheikh Zayed, ruler of Abu Dhabi, ruled as president.

Government Rulers Other parts of government The UAE is divided into 7 Emirates which are ruled by hereditary monarchs. The country has a President and a Prime Minister who are the Sheikhs of Abu Dhabi and Dubai respectively. Other parts of government The Federal National Council is a semi-elected consulting body.

Economy Oil Diversification In 1962, the Trucial States exported their first barrel of oil and its exportation became the primary driver of the economy of the UAE. Diversification Most of the Emirates, especially Dubai, used their oil resources to diversify their economy to such a degree that 85% of the economy in 2009 was oil reliant. Other energy fields and tourism are large components of the diversification efforts.

Modern UAE Abu Dhabi Dubai Abu Dhabi has the largest oil reserves of all the seven Emirates. It has also partnered with Museums such as the Louvre and Guggenheim as well as with the Cleveland Clinic. Dubai The Emirate of Dubai has an increasing tourism industry and has such sights as the Burj Khalifa (world’s tallest building) & the Burj al-Arab (7-Star Hotel).