The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a country located in the Middle East, situated on the eastern side of the Arabian Peninsula. It is bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south and southwest, Oman to the east, and Qatar to the west. Comprised of seven independent emirates, namely Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain, and Ajman, the UAE has a rich history and a unique political system. Prior to the formation of the UAE in 1971, these emirates were known as “The Trucial States” due to a truce signed with the British government in the early 19th century. Today, the UAE is a federation of absolute monarchies, where each ruler has full control over their respective emirates. The country has a strategic location with access to the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf, making it a crucial transit point for global crude oil. With an open market economy and a diverse population of approximately 8.5 million, the UAE has become a dynamic and cosmopolitan hub in the region. Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken, and Islam is the predominant religion.