The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a union of seven Sovereign Sheikhdoms - six of which, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain and Ajman - formed the present federation in 1971 when the British withdrew from the Gulf as part of the 'East of Suez' policy. Ras Al Khaimah joined a year later.

The highest government authority is vested in the Supreme Council, consisting of the rulers of the seven Emirates, which elects the President, who in turn appoints the Council of Ministers which exercises executive authority.

The 40 members of the Federal National Council are drawn proportionately from each Emirate and are appointed by the rulers.

The UAE is a Sovereign State within which each Emirate retains a degree of self administration.

Abu Dhabi is the largest Emirate, and its ruler, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahayan, is the President of the UAE. The ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid al Maktoum, is the Prime Minister and Vice-President.

A constitutional amendment in May 1996 removed the word 'interim' from the constitution and designated Abu Dhabi the capital of the UAE. The UAE is a member of the United Nations and the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC).

There are no political parties.

Standard of living