UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Compiled from the November 2004 Background Note and supplemented with additional information from the State Department and the editors of this volume. See the introduction to this set for explanatory notes.
Official Name:
United Arab Emirates
PROFILE
Geography
Area: 82,880 sq. km. (30,000 sq. mi.); about the size of Maine.
Cities: (2002 est.) Capital—Abu Dhabi (pop. 1,000,000); Dubai (pop. 860,000).
Terrain: Largely desert with some agricultural areas.
Climate: Hot, humid, low annual rainfall.
People
Nationality: Noun and adjective—UAE, Emirati.
Population: (2003 est.) 4.041 million.
Annual growth rate: 6.9%.
Ethnic groups: Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Egyptian, Jordanian, Iranian, Filipino, Other Arab, (15-20% of residents are UAE citizens).
Religions: Muslim (96%), Hindu, Christian.
Languages: Arabic (official), English, Hindi, Urdu, Persian.
Education: Years compulsory—ages 6-12. Literacy (UAE citizens)—about 80%.
Health: Life expectancy—About 74 yrs.
Work force: (2003) 2.485 million (93% foreign in 15-64 age group) Agriculture—8%; industry—32%; services—60%.
Government
Type: Federation of emirates.
Independence: December 2, 1971.
Provisional constitution: December 2, 1971.
Branches: Executive—7-member Supreme Council of Rulers, which elects president and vice president. Legislative—40-member Federal National Council (consultative only). Judicial—Islamic and secular courts.
Administrative subdivisions: Seven largely self-governing citystates.
Political parties: None.
Suffrage: None.
Central government budget: (2004) $6.5 billion.
Economy
GDP: (2003) $80 billion.
Annual growth rate: 7%.
Per capita GDP: (2003) $19,900.
Inflation rate: (2003 est.) 2.8%.
Natural resources: Oil and natural gas.
Agriculture: (3.7% of GDP) Products—vegetables, dates, dairy products, poultry, fish.
Petroleum: 31.9% of 2003 GDP.
Other industry: 25% of 2002 GDP.
Services: (42.7% of 2003 GDP) Trade, government, real estate.
Trade: (2003 est.) Exports—$60.8 billion: petroleum, gas, and petroleum products. Major markets—Japan, India, Singapore. Imports—$41.7 billion: machinery, consumer goods, food. Major suppliers—western Europe, Japan, U.S. (8%).
Foreign economic aid: (2003) In excess of $5.25 billion.
PEOPLE
Only 15-20% of the total population of 4.041 million are UAE citizens. The rest include significant numbers of other Arabs—Palestinians, Egyptians, Jordanians, Yemenis, Omanis—as well as many Iranians, Pakistanis, Indians, Bangladeshis, Afghanis, Filipinos, and west Europeans.
The majority of UAE citizens are Sunni Muslims with a small Shi'a minority. Most foreigners also are Muslim, although Hindus and Christians make up a portion of the UAE's foreign population.
Educational standards among UAE citizens population are rising rapidly. Citizens and temporary residents have taken advantage of facilities throughout the country. The UAE University in Al Ain had roughly 16,000 students in 2000. The Higher Colleges of Technology, a network of technical-vocational colleges, opened in 1989 with men's and women's campuses in each emirate. Zayed University for women opened in 1998 with campuses in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
HISTORY
The UAE was formed from the group of tribally organized Arabian Peninsula Sheikhdoms along the southern coast of the Persian Gulf and the northwestern coast of the Gulf of Oman. This area was converted to Islam in the 7th century; for centuries it was embroiled in dynastic disputes. It became known as the Pirate Coast as raiders based there harassed foreign shipping, although both European and Arab navies patrolled the area from the 17th century into the 19th century. Early British expeditions to protect the India trade from raiders at Ras al-Khaimah led to campaigns against that headquarters and other harbors along the coast in 1819. The next year, a general peace treaty was signed to which all the principal sheikhs of the coast adhered. Raids continued intermittently until 1835, when the sheikhs agreed not to engage in hostilities at sea. In 1853, they signed a treaty with the United Kingdom, under which the sheikhs (the "Trucial Sheikhdoms") agreed to a "perpetual maritime truce." It was enforced by the United Kingdom, and disputes among sheikhs were referred to the British for settlement.
Primarily in reaction to the ambitions of other European countries, the United Kingdom and the Trucial Sheikhdoms established closer bonds in an 1892 treaty, similar to treaties entered into by the U.K. with other Gulf principalities. The sheikhs agreed not to dispose of any territory except to the United Kingdom and not to enter into relationships with any foreign government other than the United Kingdom without its consent. In return, the British promised to protect the Trucial Coast from all aggression by sea and to help out in case of land attack.
In 1955, the United Kingdom sided with Abu Dhabi in the latter's dispute with Saudi Arabia over the Buraimi Oasis and other territory to the south. A 1974 agreement between Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia would have settled the Abu Dhabi-Saudi border dispute; however, the agreement has yet to be ratified by the UAE Government and is not recognized by the Saudi Government. The border with Oman also remains officially unsettled, but the two governments agreed to delineate the border in May 1999.
In 1968, the U.K. announced its decision, reaffirmed in March 1971, to end the treaty relationships with the seven Trucial Sheikhsdoms which had been, together with Bahrain and Qatar, under British protection. The nine attempted to form a union of Arab emirates, but by mid-1971 they were unable to agree on terms of union, even though the termination date of the British treaty relationship was the end of 1971. Bahrain became independent in August and Qatar in September 1971. When the British-Trucial Sheikhdoms treaty expired on December 1, 1971, they became fully independent. On December 2, 1971, six of them entered into a union called the United Arab Emirates. The seventh, Ras al-Khaimah, joined in early 1972.
The UAE sent forces to liberate Kuwait during the 1990-91 Gulf War.
In 2004, the UAE's first and only president, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, died. His eldest son Khalifa bin Zayed al Nahyan succeeded him as Ruler of Abu Dhabi. In accordance with the Constitution, the UAE's Supreme Council of Rulers elected Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan as UAE Federal President. Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan succeeded Khalifa as Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.
GOVERNMENT
Administratively, the UAE is a loose federation of seven emirates, each with its own ruler. The pace at which local government in each emirate evolves from traditional to modern is set primarily by the ruler. Under the provisional constitution of 1971, each emirate reserves considerable powers, including control over mineral rights (notably oil) and revenues. In this milieu, federal powers have developed slowly. The constitution established the positions of President (Chief of State) and Vice President, each serving 5-year terms; a Council of Ministers, led by a Prime Minister (head of government); a supreme council of rulers; and a 40-member National Assembly, a consultative body whose members are appointed by the emirate rulers.
Principal Government Officials
Last Updated: 1/4/05
President: KHALIFA bin Zayid Al Nuhayyan
Vice President: MAKTUM bin Rashid Al Maktum
Prime Minister: MAKTUM bin Rashid Al Maktum
Dep. Prime Min.: SULTAN bin Zayid Al Nuhayyan
Dep. Prime Min.: HAMDAN bin Zayid Al Nuhayyan
Min. of Agriculture & Fisheries: SAID Muhammad Al Raqabani
Min. of Communications: SULTAN bin Saeed Al Mansouri
Min. of Defense: MUHAMMAD bin Rashid Al Maktum
Min. of Economy & Planning: LUBNA al-Qasimi
Min. of Education: NUHAYYAN bin Mubarak Al Nuhayyan
Min. of Energy: MUHAMMAD bin Dhaen Al Hamili
Min. of Finance & Industry: HAMDAN BIN RASHID bin Said Al Maktum
Min. of Foreign Affairs: RASHID bin Abdallah Al Nuaymi
Min. of Health: HAMAD bin Abd Al Rahman Al Madfa
Min. of Information & Culture: ABDALLAH bin Zayid Al Nuhayyan
Min. of Interior: SAIF bin Zayid Al Nuhayyan
Min. of Justice, Islamic Affairs, & Awqaf: Muhammad Nakhira al-DHAHIRI
Min. of Labor & Social Affairs: ALI bin Abdallah Al Kaabi, Dr.
Min. of Presidential Affairs: MANSOUR bin Zayid Al Nuhayyan
Min. of Public Works: HAMDAN bin Mubarak Al Nuhayyan
Min. of Supreme Council & GCC Affairs: FAHIM bin Sultan Al Qasimi
Min. of State for Cabinet Affairs: SAID Khalfan Al Ghayth
Min. of State for Finance & Industry: Muhammad bin Khalfan al-KHARBASH, Dr.
Min. of State for Foreign Affairs: HAMDAN bin Zayid Al Nuhayyan
Governor, Central Bank: SULTAN bin Nasir al-SUWAYDI
Ambassador to the US: Asri Said Ahmad al-DHAHIRI
Permanent Representative to the UN, New York: Abd al-Aziz bin Nasir al-SHAMSI
The UAE maintains an embassy in the United States at 3522 International Court, NW, Washington, DC, 20008 (tel. 202-243-2400). The UAE Mission to the UN is located at 747 3rd Avenue, 36th Floor, New York, NY 10017 (tel. 212-371-0480).
POLITICAL CONDITIONS
The relative political and financial influence of each emirate is reflected in the allocation of positions in the federal government. The ruler of Abu Dhabi, whose emirate is the UAE's major oil producer, is president of the UAE. The ruler of Dubai, which is the UAE's commercial center and a significant oil producer, is vice president and prime minister.
Since achieving independence in 1971, the UAE has worked to strengthen its federal institutions. Nonetheless, each emirate still retains substantial autonomy, and progress toward greater federal integration has slowed in recent years. A basic concept in the UAE Government's development as a federal system is that a significant percentage of each emirate's revenues should be devoted to the UAE central budget. The UAE has no political parties. There is talk of steps toward democratic government, but nothing concrete has emerged. The rulers hold power on the basis of their dynastic position and their legitimacy in a system of tribal consensus. Rapid modernization, enormous strides in education, and the influx of a large foreign population have changed the face of the society but have not fundamentally altered this traditional political system.
DEFENSE
The Trucial Oman Scouts, long the symbol of public order on the coast and commanded by British officers, were turned over to the UAE as its defense forces in 1971. The UAE armed forces, consisting of 65,500 troops, are headquartered in Abu Dhabi and are primarily responsible for the defense of the seven emirates.
The UAE military relies heavily on troop force from other Arab countries and Pakistan. The officer corps, however, is composed almost exclusively of UAE nationals. The air force is linked into a joint air defense system with the other six national of the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) aimed at protecting the airspace of the allied states.
The UAE air force has about 4,000 personnel. The air force is currently awaiting an expected 2005 delivery of 80 advanced U.S. F-16 multirole fighter aircraft. Other equipment includes French Mirage 2000-9s, British Hawk aircraft, 36 transport aircraft and U.S. Apache and French Puma helicopters. The UAE has taken delivery of two of five Triad I-Hawk batteries. The UAE navy is small—about 2,500 personnel—and maintains 12 well-equipped coastal patrol boats and 8 missile crafts. Although primarily concerned with coastal defense, the navy is currently expanding and modernizing its force to include blue water capabilities.
The UAE contributes to the continued security and stability of the Gulf and the Straits of Hormuz. It is a leading partner in the campaign against terrorism, providing assistance in the military, diplomatic, and financial arenas since September 11, 2001. The UAE military currently provides humanitarian assistance to Iraq.
ECONOMY
Prior to the first exports of oil in 1962, the UAE economy was dominated by pearl production, fishing, agriculture, and herding. Since the rise of oil prices in 1973, however, petroleum has dominated the economy, accounting for most of its export earnings and providing significant opportunities for investment. The UAE has huge proven oil reserves, estimated at 98.8 billion barrels in 2003, with gas reserves estimated at (212 trillion cubic feet); at present production rates, these supplies would last well over 150 years.
In 2003, the UAE produced about 2.23 million barrels of oil per day—of which Abu Dhabi produced approximately 94%—with Dubai, and Sharjah to a much lesser extent, producing the rest.
Major increases in imports occurred in manufactured goods, machinery, and transportation equipment, which together accounted for 70% of total imports. Another important foreign exchange earner, the Abu Dhabi investment authority—which controls the investments of Abu Dhabi, the wealthiest emirate—manages an estimated $250 billion in overseas investments.
More than 200 factories operate at the Jebel Ali complex in Dubai, which includes a deep-water port and a free trade zone for manufacturing and distribution in which all goods for reexport or transshipment enjoy a 100% duty exemption. A major power plant with associated water desalination units, an aluminum smelter, and a steel fabrication unit are prominent facilities in the complex.
Except in the free trade zone, the UAE requires at least 51% local citizen ownership in all businesses operating in the country as part of its attempt to place Emiratis into leadership positions.
As a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the UAE participates in the wide range of GCC activities that focus on economic issues. These include regular consultations and development of common policies covering trade, investment, banking and finance, transportation, telecommunications, and other technical areas, including protection of intellectual property rights.
FOREIGN RELATIONS
The UAE joined the United Nations and the Arab League and has established diplomatic relations with more than 60 countries, including the U.S., Japan, Russia, the People's Republic of China, and most western European countries. It has played a moderate role in the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries, the United Nations, and the GCC.
Substantial development assistance has increased the UAE's stature among recipient states. Most of this foreign aid (in excess of $15 billion) has been to Arab and Muslim countries.
Following Iraq's 1990 invasion and attempted annexation of Kuwait, the UAE has sought to rely on the GCC, the United States, and other Western allies for its security. The UAE believes that the Arab League needs to be restructured to become a viable institution and would like to increase strength and interoperability of the GCC defense forces.
The UAE is a member of the following international organizations: UN and several of its specialized agencies (ICAO, ILO, UPU, WHO, WIPO); World Bank, IMF, Arab League, Organization of the Islamic Conference, Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries, and the Non-Aligned Movement.
U.S.-UAE RELATIONS
The United States has enjoyed friendly relations with the UAE since 1971. Private commercial ties, especially in petroleum, have developed into friendly government-to-government ties which include security assistance. The breadth, depth, and quality of U.S.-UAE relations increased dramatically as a result of the U.S.-led coalition's campaign to end the Iraqi occupation of Kuwait. In 2002, the U.S. and the UAE launched a strategic partnership dialogue covering virtually every aspect of the relationship. The UAE has been a key partner in the war on terror after September 11, 2001. The United States was the third country to establish formal diplomatic relations with the UAE and has had an ambassador resident in the UAE since 1974.
Principal U.S. Embassy Officials
ABU DHABI (E) Address: P.O. Box 4009; Phone: +971-2-414-2200; Fax: + 971-2-414-2469; Workweek: 0830-1700; Website: usembassy.state.gov/uae
| AMB: |
Michele J. Sison |
| AMB OMS: |
Kam Wong |
| DCM: |
Richard Albright |
| DCM OMS: |
Carol Bourne |
| CG: |
Jason Davis |
| CG OMS: |
Rebecca Robinson |
| POL: |
Joel Maybury |
| CON: |
Robert Dolce |
| MGT: |
Debra Smoker-Ali |
| AGR: |
Mike Henney |
| ATO: |
Mike Henney |
| CLO: |
Nejla Zary |
| DAO: |
Brian Kerins |
| ECO: |
Oliver John |
| FCS: |
Christian Reed |
| FMO: |
David Thomas |
| GSO: |
Marika Zadva |
| IMO: |
Bruce Chaplin |
| IPO: |
Mahmud Khan |
| ISO: |
James Rafferty |
| ISSO: |
Mahmud Khan |
| LEGATT: |
Daniel Roggenbuck |
| PAO: |
Hilary Olsin-Windecker |
| RSO: |
Thomas Barnard |
| Last Updated: 9/7/2004 |
DUBAI (CG) Phone: 971-4-311-6000; Fax: 971-4-311-6166; Workweek: Sat-Wed, 0830-1700; Website: usembabu.gov.ae
| PO: |
Jason Davis |
| POL: |
Alan Eyre |
| COM: |
Patrick Wall |
| CON: |
Cynthia Ebeid |
| MGT: |
Johanna Schoeppl |
| AGR: |
Mike Henney |
| CLO: |
vacant |
| ECO: |
Michael Carver |
| GSO: |
Jennifer Johnson |
| PAO: |
Peter Neisuler |
| RSO: |
Frank Theus |
| Last Updated: 12/30/2004 |
TRAVEL
Consular Information Sheet
December 21, 2004
Country Description: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of seven independent emirates, each with its own ruler. The federal government is a constitutional republic, headed by a president and council of ministers. Islamic ideals and beliefs provide the conservative foundation of the country's customs, laws and practices. The UAE is a modern, developed country, and tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry/Exit Requirements: A passport is required. For a stay of less than 60 days, U.S. citizens holding valid passports may obtain visitors visas at the port of entry for no fee. For a longer stay, a traveler must obtain a visa before arrival in the UAE. In addition, an AIDS test is required for work or residence permits; testing must be performed after arrival. A U.S. AIDS test is not accepted. For further information, travelers can contact the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates, 3522 International Court, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20037, telephone (202) 243-2400. In addition, visit the website of the UAE's Ministry of Information regarding tourism, business, and residence in the UAE at http://www.uaeinteract.org.
Unlike other countries in the region that accept U.S. military ID cards as valid travel documents, the UAE requires U.S. military personnel to present a valid passport for entry/exit. In addition, UAE authorities will confiscate any weapons transported to or through a civilian airport.
U.S. citizens, and citizens of other countries that are not members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), who depart the UAE via land are required to pay a departure fee. This fee is 20 UAE dirhams and is payable only in the local UAE dirham currency.
Safety and Security: Americans in the United Arab Emirates should exercise a high level of security awareness. The Department of State remains concerned about the possibility of terrorist attacks against U.S. citizens and interests throughout the world. Americans should maintain a low profile, vary routes and times for all required travel, and treat mail and packages from unfamiliar sources with caution. In addition, U.S. citizens are urged to avoid contact with any suspicious, unfamiliar objects, and to report the presence of the objects to local authorities. Vehicles should not be left unattended, if at all possible, and should be kept locked at all times. U.S. Government personnel overseas have been advised to take the same precautions. In addition, U.S. Government facilities may temporarily close or suspend public services from time to time as necessary to review their security posture and ensure its adequacy.
Taking photographs of anything that could be perceived as being of military or security interest may result in problems with authorities.
For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Middle East and North Africa Public Announcement, Travel Warnings and other Public Announcements can be found.
Up-to-date information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll-line at 1-317-472-2328. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
The Department of State urges American citizens to take responsibility for their own personal security while traveling overseas. For general information about appropriate measures travelers can take to protect themselves in an overseas environment, see the Department of State's pamphlets A Safe Trip Abroad and Tips for Travelers to the Middle East and North Africa.
Crime: Crime generally is not a problem for travelers in the UAE. However, the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi advises U.S. citizens to take normal precautions against theft, such as not leaving a wallet, purse, or credit card unattended.
Information for Victims of Crime: The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed. See our information on Victims of Crime at http://travel.state.gov/travel/brochure_victim_assistance.html.
Medical Facilities and Health Information: Basic modern medical care and medicines are available in the principal cities of the UAE, but not necessarily in outlying areas.
Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747); fax 1-888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299), or via the CDC's Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization's (WHO) website at http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith.
Medical Insurance: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation.
Traffic Safety and Road Conditions: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning the United Arab Emirates is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.
The police emergency number is 999; the ambulance number is 998. Mobile phones are widely used throughout the UAE, so passers-by usually request emergency police and medical services quickly. Response time by emergency services is adequate. However, medical personnel emphasize transport of the injured to the hospital rather than treatment on site. Traffic accidents are a leading cause of death in the UAE because drivers often drive at high speeds. Unsafe driving practices are common, especially on inter-city highways. On highways, unmarked speed bumps and drifting sand create additional hazards.
Country-wide traffic laws impose stringent penalties for certain violations, particularly driving under the influence of alcohol. Penalties may include hefty jail sentences and fines, and, for Muslims (even those holding U.S. citizenship), lashings. Persons involved in an accident in which another party is injured automatically go to jail until the injured person is released from the hospital. Should a person die in a traffic accident, the driver of the other car is liable for payment of compensation for the death (known as "dhiyya"), usually the equivalent of 55,000 U.S. dollars. Even relatively minor accidents may result in lengthy proceedings, during which both drivers may be prohibited from leaving the country.
In order to drive, UAE residents must obtain a UAE driver's license. Foreign driver's licenses are not recognized. However, a non-resident visitor to the UAE can drive if he/she obtains a valid international driver's license issued by the motor vehicle authority of the country whose passport the traveler holds. The UAE recognizes driver's licenses issued by other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states only if the bearer is driving a vehicle registered to the same GCC state. Under no circumstances should anyone drive without a valid license.
In addition, visit the website of the UAE's Ministry of Information regarding tourism, business, and residence in the UAE at http://www.uaeinteract.org.
Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of the United Arab Emirates as being in compliance with ICAO international aviation safety standards for oversight of the United Arab Emirates' air carrier operations. For more information, travelers may visit the FAA's internet web site at http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa/index.cfm.
As a result of the August 23, 2000 crash of a Gulf Air flight in the Persian Gulf, the U.S. Department of Defense has recommended that military commanders use air carriers other than Gulf Air for official travel.
Special Circumstances: The UAE government does not recognize dual nationality. Children of UAE fathers automatically acquire UAE citizenship at birth and must enter the UAE on UAE passports. UAE authorities have in the past confiscated U.S. passports of UAE/U.S. dual nationals. This does not constitute loss of U.S. citizenship, but should be reported to the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the U.S. Consulate General in Dubai. In addition to being subject to all UAE laws, U.S. citizens who also hold UAE citizenship may also be subject to other laws that impose special obligations on citizens of the UAE. For additional information, please refer to our Dual Nationality flyer available on the Consular Affairs home page on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov.
U.S. citizens may become involved in disputes of a commercial nature that prompt local firms or courts to take possession of the American citizen's passport. Travel bans may also be enforced for U.S. citizens involved in financial disputes with a local sponsor or firm. These bans, which are rigidly enforced, prevent the individual from leaving the UAE for any reason until the dispute is resolved. Although it is customary for a local sponsor to hold an employee's passport, it is illegal to do so under UAE law. Most contractual/labor disputes can be avoided by clearly establishing all terms and conditions of employment or sponsorship in the labor contract at the beginning of any employment. Should a dispute arise, the UAE Ministry of Labor has established a special department to review and arbitrate labor claims. A list of local attorneys capable of representing Americans in such matters is available from the Consular and Commercial sections of the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the U.S. Consulate General in Dubai.
Codes of behavior and dress in the UAE reflect the country's Islamic traditions and are more conservative than those of the United States. Visitors to the UAE should be respectful of this conservative heritage, especially in the Emirate of Sharjah where rules of decency and public conduct are strictly enforced. Female travelers should keep in mind the cultural differences among the many people who coexist in the UAE and should be cognizant that unwitting actions may invite unwanted attention to them. Isolated incidents of verbal and physical harassment of Western women have occurred. Victims of harassment are encouraged to report significant incidents to the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate General in Dubai.
American citizens intending to reside and work in the UAE should have their academic and occupational certificates authenticated by the Department of State's Office of Authentications in Washington, D.C. before traveling to the UAE. The Office of Authentications may be contacted by telephone from within the United States at 800-688-9889 or 202-647-5002, by fax at 202-663-3636, or by e-mail at aoprgsmauth@state.gov. UAE labor law requires local sponsors to produce employees' academic and/or professional certificates, duly authenticated by the Foreign Ministry of the individual's country, before a work permit can be issued. Travelers intending to bring their families to reside with them in the UAE will also need to have their marriage certificate and children's birth certificates authenticated by the Department of State in Washington, D.C.
Criminal Penalties: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating United Arab Emirates laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned.
Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in the United Arab Emirates are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Engaging in illicit sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime, prosecutable in the United States.
Legislation enacted in January 1996 imposes the death sentence for convicted drug traffickers. Some drugs normally taken under a doctor's supervision in the United States are classified as narcotics in the UAE. A doctor's prescription should be carried along with any medication that is brought into the country.
In addition, the UAE's tough antinarcotics program also includes poppy seeds, widely used in other cultures, including the U.S., for culinary purposes, on its list of controlled substances. The importation and possession of poppy seeds in any and all forms is strictly prohibited. Persons found to possess even very small quantities of controlled substances listed by the UAE are subject to prosecution by the authorities and may be given lengthy prison terms of up to 15 years. Travelers with questions regarding the items on the list of controlled substances should contact the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the U.S. Consulate General in Dubai. If suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, individuals may be required to submit to blood and/or urine tests and may be subject to prosecution.
Crimes of fraud, including passing bad checks and non-payment of bills (including hotel bills), are regarded seriously in the UAE and can result in imprisonment and/or fines. Bail generally is not available to non-residents of the UAE who are arrested for fraud crimes.
Drinking or possession of alcohol without a Ministry of Interior liquor permit is illegal and could result in arrest and/or fines and imprisonment. Alcohol is served at bars in most major hotels but is intended for guests of the hotel. Persons who are not guests of the hotel, and who consume alcohol in the restaurants and bars, technically are required to have their own personal liquor licenses. Liquor licenses are issued only to non-Muslim persons who possess UAE residency permits. Drinking and driving is considered a serious offense. Penalties generally are assessed according to religious law.
While individuals are free to worship as they choose, and facilities are available for that purpose, religious proselytizing is not permitted in the UAE. Persons violating this law, even unknowingly, may be imprisoned.
If arrested, U.S. citizens should contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The U.S. Consul will provide information on the local judicial system and a list of local attorneys. In Dubai, the U.S. Consul can also arrange for U.S. citizen detainees to meet with an ombudsman from the Human Rights Department of the Dubai police headquarters, if the detainee believes he or she is not being treated fairly.
Children's Issues: For information on international adoption of children and international parental child abduction, see the Office of Children's Issues website at http://travel.state.gov/family/index.html.
Registration/Embassy Location: Americans living or traveling in the United Arab Emirates are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov, and to obtain updated information on travel and security within the United Arab Emirates. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.
The U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi is located at Embassies District, Plot 38, Sector W59-02, Street No. 4, P.O. Box 4009. The telephone number is (971) (2) 414-2200, and the Consular Section fax number is (971) (2) 414-2241.
The email address for American Citizens Services inquiries, including passport questions, is consularabudha@state.gov. The after-hours telephone number is (971) (2) 414-2500. The Embassy Internet web site is http://usembassy.state.gov/uae/
The U.S. Consulate General in Dubai is located on the 21st floor of the Dubai World Trade Center, P.O. Box 9343. The telephone number is (971) (4) 311-6000, and the Consular Section fax number is (971) (4) 331-8594. The email address for American Citizens Services inquiries, including passport questions, is wardenet@emirates.net.ae. The website for the U.S. Consulate General in Dubai can be accessed through the Embassy website. The workweek for both the Embassy in Abu Dhabi and Consulate in Dubai is Saturday through Wednesday.
International Adoption
January 2005
The information below has been edited from a report of the State Department Bureau of Consular Affairs, Office of Overseas Citizens Services. For more information, please read the International Adoption section of this book and review current reports online at www.travel.state.gov/family
The American Embassy in Abu Dhabi has been informed by the Sharia Court that Sharia law does not permit adoption in the United Arab Emirates. The Sharia Court may grant a guardianship, but such a guardianship is insufficient for the filing of an I-130 petition for U.S. immigration purposes, according to the U.S. Board of Immigration Appeals.
Specific questions regarding adoption issues may be addressed to: U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi; 11th St. (also known as Al-Sudan St.); P.O. Box 4009; Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Telephone: (971) (2) 436-691; Fax: (971) (2) 435-786; After-hours telephone: (971) (2) 434-457; Internet: http://www.usembabu.gov.ae
International Parental Child Abduction
January 2005
The information below has been edited from the report of the State Department Bureau of Consular Affairs, Office of Overseas Citizens Services. For more information, please read the International Child Abduction section of this book and review current reports online at travel.state.gov
Disclaimer: The information in this circular relating to the legal requirements of a specific foreign country is provided for general information only. Questions involving interpretation of specific foreign laws should be addressed to foreign legal counsel.
General: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is not a party to the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction, nor are there any international or bilateral treaties in force between the UAE and the United States dealing with international parental child abduction. American citizens who travel to the UAE are subject to the jurisdiction of UAE courts, as well as to the country's laws and regulations. American citizens planning a trip to the UAE with dual national children should bear this in mind.
Custody Disputes: When child custody disputes arise between parents, custody decisions are based on Islamic (Shari'ah) law. Non-UAE nationals resident in the UAE, whether married to a UAE or non-UAE citizen, may file custody cases in the UAE. Non-residents of the UAE may also file custody cases in the UAE, but may need to authorize a UAE resident and/or a lawyer practicing in the UAE to act on their behalf for the duration of the case. Non-Muslims are also permitted to file cases in the UAE family courts, under Shari'ah law.
In determining issues of custody, UAE courts may take into consideration the parents' religion, place of permanent residence, income, and the mother's subsequent marital status. Priority is generally given to the Muslim father, irrespective of his nationality, when the mother is a non-Muslim. As a basic starting point under Shari'ah law, a Muslim mother may be granted custody of girls under the age of nine and boys under the age of seven, at which time custody may be transferred to the father.
If a child has attained an "age of discretion," that child may be allowed to choose the parent with whom he or she wishes to live. A UAE lawyer should be contacted to discuss the definition of "age of discretion."
If the court finds the mother "incompetent," custody of a child, regardless of age, can be given to the father, or to the child's grandmother on the father's side. A finding of incompetence is left fully to the discretion of the Shari'ah judge. Shari'ah courts consistently find parents incompetent if they engage in behavior that is considered to be inconsistent with the Islamic faith. Further, a mother may lose her rights of custody should she remarry. If both the mother and father are ruled incompetent, custody of the children may be given to the child's paternal grandparents.
Persons who wish to pursue a child custody claim in a UAE court may wish to retain an attorney in the UAE. The U.S. State Department, the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the U.S. Consulate General in Dubai maintain a list of attorneys practicing in the area. A copy of this list may be obtained by contacting any of these offices, but the Embassy and the Consulate cannot recommend any specific attorney, and make no claim as to the ability or the integrity of the attorneys on the list. The Embassy and the Consulate cannot pay for any legal expenses incurred.
U.S. Embassy Abu Dhabi
P.O. Box 4009
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Phone: 971 2 443 6691
After hours emergency phone number: 971 2 443 4457;
Fax: 971 2 443 5786
Workweek: Saturday through Wednesday
U.S. Consulate General Dubai
P.O. Box 9343
Dubai, UAE
Phone: 971 4 311 6000
After hours emergency phone number: 971 50 645 8773;
Fax: 971 4 331 8594
Workweek: Saturday through Wednesday
U.S. Department of State
Office of Overseas Citizen Services
Washington, DC 20520
Phone: (202) 647-5225
Specific questions regarding child custody in the UAE should be addressed to an attorney practicing in the UAE or to the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates at: Embassy of the United Arab Emirates; 3522 International Court, NW; Washington, DC 20008; Phone: (202) 243-2400; Fax: (202) 243-2432.
Enforcement of Foreign Judgments: Custody orders and judgments of foreign courts are not enforceable in the UAE. UAE courts will not enforce U.S. court decrees ordering a parent in the UAE to pay child support. An American parent with a U.S. court order granting him or her custody can present that order to the court, and the court may take it into consideration, but it will not be binding in a custody proceeding in the UAE.
Visitation Rights: Non-custodial parents are guaranteed visitation rights, but may have to seek approval from the appropriate authorities. In some cases the custodial parent and family have been very open and accommodating in facilitating the right of the non-custodial parent to visit and maintain contact with the child, but in other cases the custodial parent and family have not been so accommodating.
Dual Nationality: Dual nationality is not recognized under UAE law. Children of UAE fathers automatically acquire UAE citizenship at birth, regardless of where the child was born. In certain circumstances, UAE mothers can also transmit citizenship. UAE citizens must enter and exit the country on UAE passports.
Travel Restrictions: Exit visas are not required to leave the UAE. However, all persons exiting the country must exit on the passport that shows proof of the person's legal status in the UAE, meaning either their residence or entry visa.
A parent can obtain a court order that places a travel ban on a child, and this ban will be enforced at all the airports in the country. If a parent attempts to leave with a child who has been placed under a travel ban, this could potentially lead to new legal issues concerning the custody of the child.
Criminal Remedies: For information on possible criminal remedies, please contact your local law enforcement authorities or the nearest office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Information is also available on the Internet at the web site of the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) at http://www.ojjdp.ncjrs.org.
