The United Arab Emirates are made up of seven states (or emirates) which were formerly independent sheikdoms: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Qaiwain, Ras Al-Khaimah and Fujairah

Population: Between 3 and 4 million

Capital: Abu Dhabi

Language: Arabic (official). English is also spoken, along with Hindi, Farsi, Tagalog, Malayalam, Russian, Tamil and others.

Currency: Dirham (1 Dirham = 100 Fils)

Timezone: GMT+4

The United Arab Emirates are generally recognised as the most cosmopolitan and "Westernised" of the Middle East countries and the expat population is growing rapidly. In fact, less than 50% of the population of the UAE are Arabs. However, 95% of the population are Muslims and Islam is the official religion.

Arabic is the official language although English is widely spoken. Most English-speaking expats find that they can get by with virtually no Arabic, especially those working in the major expat cities (e.g. Dubai). However, as in most countries, learning the local language can prove to be a valuable asset and will certainly be appreciated by UAE nationals.

There are some important points which expats should keep in mind. Although alcohol is available to non-Muslims (with the exception of the Emirate of Sharjah where it is forbidden for all) it must never be consumed on the streets or offered to local citizens. Eating, drinking and smoking are also not permitted in public (from sunrise to sunset) during Ramadan, the month of fasting.

Dubai is often recognised as being the most Westernised of UAE cities in terms of both appearance and attitude but some expats suggest that Abu Dhabi is even more so (accommodation is also slightly cheaper in Abu Dhabi). Reports from younger expats are particularly positive about life in these cities. However, some aspects of life remain very different from those in the West. For example, although there is a gay scene in Dubai it is "underground" due to the state's view of homosexuality and arrests by the police are not unknown.

Some people describe the expat community in the UAE as close-knit, others as exclusive. One way of meeting and making expat friends is through the network of cybercafes in the region which are particularly popular with expatriates. Another way is to approach your embassy or consulate which should have lists of both social and business organizations your own countrymen may be involved in (e.g. the British Business Group and similar organisations hold welcome evenings for new expats).