15 Facts About United Arab Emirates Most People Get Wrong
United Arab Emirates is home to 9.8M people across 83,600 km², making it a country whose population is spread fairly evenly across its territory. It ranks 1st in the world for Skyscrapers.
Below are 15 facts about United Arab Emirates, covering history, geography, economy and culture, including several that regularly surprise people who think they already know the country.
15 Facts About United Arab Emirates
A complete overview of United Arab Emirates's history, geography, economy and culture, covering everything from population and borders to language, climate and travel.
Dubai has the world's tallest building, largest mall and largest indoor ski slope.
The UAE went from pearl diving to one of the world's wealthiest nations in 50 years.
The UAE has the world's highest per capita water consumption.
Camel racing is the traditional national sport of the UAE.
United Arab Emirates is located in Middle East, Asia, with its capital city in Abu Dhabi.
The population of United Arab Emirates is approximately 9.8M, spread across 83,600 km² of territory.
United Arab Emirates has a population density of 117/km²: a moderate density for its region.
United Arab Emirates has a coastline of 1,318 km, giving it access to maritime trade, fishing and coastal tourism.
United Arab Emirates shares land borders with 2 countries: Saudi Arabia, Oman.
The official language of United Arab Emirates is Arabic.
United Arab Emirates uses the Dirham (AED) as its official currency.
United Arab Emirates gained independence in 1971, establishing itself as a sovereign nation in Middle East.
The total GDP of United Arab Emirates is $507B, with a GDP per capita of $51,720, classifying it as a high-income economy.
United Arab Emirates has a hot desert, extreme heat june–september climate, with the best time to visit being November–March.
United Arab Emirates is considered a Expensive destination for travellers, with meals averaging $8–20.
The UAE transformed from pearl fishing and camel herding to one of the world's richest nations in under 60 years. Dubai's Burj Khalifa at 828m is the world's tallest structure.
🏆 United Arab Emirates World Rankings
United Arab Emirates holds several notable world rankings; here is how it compares globally:
Famous Places in United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates is home to several remarkable landmarks and destinations that draw visitors from around the world:
🏙️ Burj Khalifa
The world's tallest building at 828m, a gleaming needle above the Dubai skyline
🕌 Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Abu Dhabi's stunning white marble mosque with the world's largest hand-knotted carpet
🌴 Palm Jumeirah
The world's largest artificial archipelago, an iconic palm-shaped island off Dubai
🚤 Dubai Creek
The historic saltwater inlet and dhow harbour around which Old Dubai was built
Frequently Asked Questions About United Arab Emirates
What is United Arab Emirates famous for?
The UAE transformed from pearl fishing and camel herding to one of the world's richest nations in under 60 years. Dubai's Burj Khalifa at 828m is the world's tallest structure.
What is the capital of United Arab Emirates?
The capital of United Arab Emirates is Abu Dhabi.
What is the population of United Arab Emirates?
United Arab Emirates has a population of approximately 9.8M as of 2026.
What language do they speak in United Arab Emirates?
The official language of United Arab Emirates is Arabic.
When did United Arab Emirates become an independent country?
United Arab Emirates gained independence in 1971.
What currency does United Arab Emirates use?
United Arab Emirates uses the Dirham (AED).
What is the GDP of United Arab Emirates?
United Arab Emirates has a GDP of $507B, with a GDP per capita of $51,720.
Where is United Arab Emirates located?
United Arab Emirates is located in Middle East, Asia.
Is United Arab Emirates safe to visit?
Safety conditions in United Arab Emirates vary by region. Always check your government's official travel advisory before visiting.
What are some fun facts about United Arab Emirates?
Dubai has the world's tallest building, largest mall and largest indoor ski slope. The UAE went from pearl diving to one of the world's wealthiest nations in 50 years. The UAE has the world's highest per capita water consumption.
What are some interesting facts about United Arab Emirates?
The UAE went from pearl diving to one of the world's wealthiest nations in 50 years. The UAE has the world's highest per capita water consumption. Camel racing is the traditional national sport of the UAE.
United Arab Emirates facts: what should I know?
United Arab Emirates is a country in Middle East with a population of 9.8M. Its capital is Abu Dhabi and its official language is Arabic. Dubai has the world's tallest building, largest mall and largest indoor ski slope.
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