United Arab Emirates (05:29)

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The United Arab Emirates is a collection of seven sheikdoms that came together in 1971. The country has massive modern cities, like Dubai, and traditional agriculture in the desert areas. Camel farms that produce camel milk are common.

Emirati Fashion (07:42)

Abu Dhabi is the capital and the largest and wealthiest emirate. There is a strong market for precious stone jewelry because of the emirate's wealth. Weddings are lavish events with modern trends.

Arabic Lifestyle (03:37)

More than 80% of the population of the UAE is foreign. The nation population cherishes its own Arabic traditions, such as camel auctions. Some of the camels are used in camel racing, which was an old Bedouin tradition.

Foreigners in UAE (03:34)

Native Emiratis do not pay taxes, but foreign residents pay huge amounts. The high population of foreigners has led to English being recognized as an official second language. Many Arabic parents send their children to weekend programs, so they retain their native language.

Emirati Traditions (04:05)

Most of the UAE is hyper-modern because of its oil and gas wealth. A bird market in Sharjah operates like a traditional Arabic marketplace. Keeping birds, especially falcons, as pets is incredibly common.

Emirati Desert (02:24)

The large cities of the UAE take up a small fraction of the country's land mass. Many parts of the desert have been turned into wildlife sanctuaries.

Foreign Workers in UAE (07:36)

A German veterinarian performs surgeries on pet falcons, which are common for men in Dubai. Most expatriates are laborers who have little interactions with native Emiratis.

Christianity in the UAE (01:37)

About four million Christians live in the UAE and worship in large churches in major cities. A cathedral in Abu Dhabi gives services in 12 languages.

Dubai Landmarks (04:06)

Burj Al Arab is Dubai's most well-known landmark. The hotel draws tourists from around the world. The building is also home to a turtle rescue as part of the hotel's aquarium.

Fujairah (01:44)

Fujairah is on the coast of the Indian Ocean and has a large population of foreign workers from India. Most work in the fishing industry. The Al Badiyah Mosque, built in 1466, is a popular pilgrimage site.

Arabic in UAE (03:11)

Many Emiratis noticed the lack of Arabic language skills. Government programs and Arabic publishers have helped recreate an interest in the language.

Life in the UAE (05:19)

The aquarium at Burj Al Arab releases turtles into its rehabilitation tank. A camel farm prepares for a day of milk production.

Credits: United Arab Emirates (00:23)

Credits: United Arab Emirates