The United Arab Emirates (UAE) consists of seven main emirates, each with its own unique character and history. This guide provides an overview of the main cities in each emirate, the distances between them, population figures, demographic diversity, and what each city is known for.
1. Abu Dhabi Emirate
- City: Abu Dhabi
- Population: Approximately 1.5 million.
- Nationalities & Percentages:
- Emiratis: 20%
- South Asians (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh): 45%
- Arabs (Egypt, Syria, Jordan): 15%
- Filipinos: 10%
- Others: 10%
- City Character: Modern and contemporary, featuring many skyscrapers and wide avenues.
- Famous Landmarks: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi Corniche, Yas Island (Yas Marina Circuit, Ferrari World).
- Character: A blend of modernity and cultural touches, focusing on luxury tourism and culture.
- City: Al Ain
- Population: Approximately 766,000.
- Nationalities & Percentages:
- Emiratis: 30%
- South Asians: 40%
- Arabs: 20%
- Others: 10%
- City Character: A garden city filled with oases and springs.
- Famous Landmarks: Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain Zoo, Al Ain Oasis.
- Character: Traditional and peaceful, combining local culture with nature.
2. Dubai Emirate
- City: Dubai
- Population: Approximately 3.3 million.
- Nationalities & Percentages:
- Emiratis: 10%
- South Asians: 50%
- Arabs: 20%
- Europeans: 10%
- Others: 10%
- City Character: Global, technologically advanced, known for its unique architecture and shopping centers.
- Famous Landmarks: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Palm Jumeirah, Downtown Dubai.
- Character: A dynamic and fast-developing city, blending luxury with business.
3. Sharjah Emirate
- City: Sharjah
- Population: Approximately 1.4 million.
- Nationalities & Percentages:
- Emiratis: 15%
- South Asians: 55%
- Arabs: 20%
- Others: 10%
- City Character: Culturally conservative, focusing on education and the arts.
- Famous Landmarks: Islamic Museum, Central Market, Sharjah Corniche.
- Character: Cultural and educational, with a traditional and conservative touch.
4. Ajman Emirate
- City: Ajman
- Population: Approximately 504,000.
- Nationalities & Percentages:
- Emiratis: 20%
- South Asians: 50%
- Arabs: 20%
- Others: 10%
- City Character: Small and thriving, focusing on small industries and handicrafts.
- Famous Landmarks: Ajman Museum, Ajman Corniche.
- Character: Quiet and simple, with a focus on community life.
5. Ras Al Khaimah Emirate
- City: Ras Al Khaimah
- Population: Approximately 416,000.
- Nationalities & Percentages:
- Emiratis: 30%
- South Asians: 40%
- Arabs: 20%
- Others: 10%
- City Character: Tourist and natural, featuring northern mountains and hot springs.
- Famous Landmarks: Jebel Jais, Dhayah Fort, Khatt Hot Springs.
- Character: Tourist and natural, combining mountains with scenic nature.
6. Fujairah Emirate
- City: Fujairah
- Population: Approximately 256,000.
- Nationalities & Percentages:
- Emiratis: 30%
- South Asians: 40%
- Arabs: 20%
- Others: 10%
- City Character: Coastal and industrial, with ports and free zones.
- Famous Landmarks: Al Aqah Beach, Fujairah Fort, Al Bidya Mosque.
- Character: A coastal city blending industry with tourism.
7. Umm Al Quwain Emirate
- City: Umm Al Quwain
- Population: Approximately 70,000.
- Nationalities & Percentages:
- Emiratis: 40%
- South Asians: 40%
- Arabs: 15%
- Others: 5%
- City Character: Quiet and traditional, focusing on maritime heritage and agriculture.
- Famous Landmarks: Al Sinniyah Island, Dreamland Aqua Park.
- Character: Quiet and traditional, with a focus on simple living.
Distances Between Major Cities
- Dubai – Abu Dhabi: Approximately 140 km (1.5-2 hours by car)
- Dubai – Sharjah: Approximately 20 km (30-45 minutes by car)
- Dubai – Ajman: Approximately 30 km (40-50 minutes by car)
- Dubai – Ras Al Khaimah: Approximately 110 km (1.5-2 hours by car)
- Dubai – Fujairah: Approximately 120 km (1.5-2 hours by car)
- Dubai – Umm Al Quwain: Approximately 60 km (1 hour by car)
Conclusion
The United Arab Emirates is characterized by its cultural and demographic diversity, with its cities hosting a wide range of nationalities and cultures. Each city in the UAE has its own unique character and history, making it an ideal destination for living, working, and investing. Whether you seek the modern lifestyle of Dubai, the heritage and culture of Sharjah, or the natural beauty of Ras Al Khaimah, the UAE offers something for everyone.