The United Arab Emirates was founded on 2nd December 1971. It is a unique federal monarchy made up of seven Emirates, including Abu Dhabi, which serves as the UAE Capital; Dubai; Sharjah; Ajman; Umm AI Quwain; Ras AI Khaimah; and Fujairah; therefore, each Emirates is ruled by a different member of the UAE Royal family. Although as of 2024, the total population of the UAE is nearly 10 million, of which 11% are Emiratis, significantly among all seven Emirates, Dubai is one of the most populous cities and an international hub. The UAE is governed by the Federal Supreme Council, which elects representatives from the seven Emirates. To explore more about all the seven Emirates in the UAE, you should consider taking notes from the following information.
Royal Family Al Maktoum, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, rules the populous Emirates and international hub Dubai. It is also the second-largest Emirate, first established in 1833. It generates an Economy of up to AED 115 billion that mainly relies on tourism and trade. Dubai is a well-known Emirate in the UAE due to several iconic attractions like modern Skyscrapers, magnificent landmarks, star-studded necklines, vibrant nightlife, and high-end shopping malls. Some of the stunning places to visit in Dubai are Burj Khalifa, the Museum of Future, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Mall, Dubai Opera, Souks, Sharjah, the cultural hub, and the Khalid Lagoon.
Abu Dhabi is the capital of the Emirate, one of the largest Emirates in the UAE. It occupies approximately 84% of the total territory and contributes the largest share to the UAE Economy. Significantly, Abu Dhabi is one of the wealthiest cities, generating most of its revenue from its oil mining, renewable energies, and Financial Services. This magnificent city of UAE also attracts tourism by hosting plenty of fun events such as the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship, the prestigious Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge cross-country rally, the Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and more. Besides that, the city is home to one of the grandest mosques in the world - Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which is well known for its incredible Islamic architecture.
Sharjah is the only Emirate in the UAE with two coastlines: the Arabian Gulf to the west and the Gulf of Oman to the East. However, the third-most populous city in the UAE is recognized worldwide for its magnificent landscapes, numerous nature reserves, rich heritage centers, beautiful mosques, and plenty of art galleries. To admire the best of Sharjah, visit some popular tourist attractions like the Khalid Lagoon, Sharjah Art Museum, Sharjah Safari Park, Al Noor Mosque, and more.
Ajman is the smallest Emirate in the UAE and has only three major cities within its borders, although the main city is the hub for banking and business centers. Despite this, the major area that boosts the Economy is either Ajman Port or Ajman Free Zone. The magnificent Ajman reflects the fusion of traditional and modern, with plenty of natural wonders and old traditions. The landscape of the Arabian Gulf borders on one side, and the Hajar Mountains on the other show the incredible pristine beaches and several other tourist attractions.
Ras AI Khaimah is a popular Emirate well-known for its rich history. Because it does not have oil, it does not generate an economy; thus, the city focuses on real estate, tourism, building materials, the service sector, and agriculture to boost its economy. Ras AI Khaimah also attracts tourists with scenic views of mountains in certain areas and numerous adventure and outdoor activities. Some prominent tourist attractions are Jebel Jais, Wadi Shawka, the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Tim's Reef, Madhab Spring Sulphuric Park, and more.
Fujairah is located on the eastern coast of the UAE and is the most mountainous city; however, its Economy relies on Fishing and agriculture. It is one of the prime Emirates as it has the only access to the Indian Ocean and operates multiple ports. Some of the popular tourist attractions are Fujairah Beaches, Tim's Reef, Madhab Spring Sulphuric Park, and more.
Umm, AI-Quwain is the least popular and most diminutive Emirate in the UAE; unlike others, it does not generate an economy with oil products or gas; the main industry that produces the economy is fishing and exporting seafood. It is the smallest Emirate, but it has some incredible, unexplored sites. Some of the magnificent tourist attractions are Falaj Al Mualla Fort, Ed-Dur Site, Umm Al Quwain National Museum, and more.
Usually, all seven Emirates are considered the best places to live in the UAE, as each has a unique specialty. Moreover, the ideal choice of Emirates is subject to individual preference based on lifestyle and priorities. Significantly, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the best choices to live in because of the city's luxury and innovation, and both cities have been established as international tourist hubs as they are home to unique iconic Islamic infrastructure that will surely amaze travelers. On the other hand, Sharjah, Ras AI Khaimah, and Ajman are known for several ultimate advantages. Significantly, all the seven Emirates have their pros and cons. To finalize the ideal emirate, comparing the pros and cons is better based on individual preference.
While the UAE is recognized worldwide because of magnificent Dubai, which is home to plenty of amazing tourist attractions, the richest Emirate in the United Arab Emirates is Abu Dhabi, as it is one of the largest and wealthiest cities in the UAE in terms of Economy and Sovereign Wealth Funds. The richest Emirate, Abu Dhabi, is ruled by the UAE Royal Family members, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the son of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan AI Nahyan, the first president of the United Arab Emirates. Abu Dhabi's Gross Domestic Product and Per Capita Income are approximately more than $1 trillion. The city's rapid development and urbanization led to an increase in the population's income.
Ajman is considered the cheapest and most affordable Emirate to live in in the UAE. Compared to the wealthiest cities of the United Arab Emirates, like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, one can easily find amazing affordable housing and cheap living costs in Ajman. Ajman is well known for its relaxed lifestyle, especially for those seeking a pocket-friendly place to live.
There is no single best Emirates to purchase property in the UAE because the perfect choice depends on individual preferences. Dubai is one of the most prominent Emirates to buy property in the UAE as the city is home to numerous magnificent tourist attractions like Burj Khalifa, Sky Scrappers, luxurious shopping centers, and more with fine connectivity. Simultaneously, the city is flooded with plenty of perks, so buying property in Dubai can be expensive. The Ras AI Khaimah is also one of the best Emirates to purchase property in the UAE as it offers attractive price deals for the property surrounded by the serene landscape in the natural paradise. It is the perfect Emirates for nature enthusiasts who love admiring the pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, Mountains, and more.