Facts and Figures about Kuwait

  • The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is the official name of the country.

  • Islam is the official religion, with the majority of Emiratis being Sunni Muslims, while Shia Muslims form a significant minority.

  • Arabic is the official language, and English is widely used in business, government, and international trade.

  • The UAE is a major global energy producer, with oil and gas accounting for a large portion of export revenues, making it one of the world’s leading oil producers.

  • The population of the UAE is approximately 10 million, with Emirati citizens forming around 11–12% of the total population and the rest being expatriates from across the globe.

  • Abu Dhabi is the capital and political center, while Dubai serves as a global economic and commercial hub, with extensive trade, tourism, and financial services.

  • Education and literacy rates are among the highest in the region, with adult literacy exceeding 95% for both men and women.

  • The climate is predominantly desert, characterized by very hot summers, mild winters, and low annual rainfall averaging less than 120 mm.

  • Historically, the UAE’s economy was based on pearling, fishing, and maritime trade, before the discovery of oil in the 1950s transformed its economy and global importance.

  • The name “Emirates” refers to the federation of seven emirates (Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah), each governed by its own ruler.