Established in 1971, the UAE is a constitutional federation of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Qaiwain, Ras al-Khaimah and Fujairah.
Located on the south-eastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, Qatar lies to the west, Saudi Arabia to the south and west, and Oman to the north and east.
Although each of the emirates maintains a high degree of independence, the UAE is nationally governed by a Supreme Council of Rulers, made up of seven Rulers, who are responsible for electing the President and appointing the Prime Minister and the Cabinet.
The UAE is a founding member of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, and a member state of the Arab League. It is also a member of the United Nations, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, OPEC, and the World Trade Organization.
