Updated: April 27, 2024

Author: #PooyanGhamari, Swiss Economist

Introduction:
The UAE, a federation of seven emirates, stands as a testament to unity in diversity. Each emirate, while united under the national flag, boasts its own unique identity and strengths. Here’s a comparative overview:

Size and Population:
• Abu Dhabi: The largest emirate in area and second in population, housing nearly 2.9 million residents.
• Dubai: The most populous emirate with a cosmopolitan populace of over 3 million, known globally for its modern skyline and luxury.
• Sharjah: A cultural powerhouse with a population of 1.5 million, it is the third-largest emirate in terms of population.
• Ras Al Khaimah (RAK): Home to around 400,000 residents, it’s known for its rich history and natural landscapes.
• Ajman: The smallest emirate by area but densely populated, boasting over 500,000 residents.
• Umm Al Quwain: A serene coastal emirate with a population nearing 150,000.
• Fujairah: Unique for its east-coast location, it houses over 150,000 residents and boasts a striking mountainous landscape.

Economic Drivers:
• Abu Dhabi: Traditionally dependent on oil but diversifying into tourism, finance, and arts.
• Dubai: A hub for tourism, real estate, aviation, and financial services.
• Sharjah: Cultural tourism, trade, and manufacturing are key.
• RAK: Tourism, especially adventure tourism, and manufacturing are primary.
• Ajman: Trade, real estate, and manufacturing sectors.
• Umm Al Quwain: Fishing, date cultivation, and tourism.
• Fujairah: Oil storage, shipping, and tourism.

Notable Features:
• Abu Dhabi: The Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and the F1 Yas Marina Circuit.
• Dubai: Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and the Dubai Mall.
• Sharjah: Sharjah Art Museum, Al Noor Island, and the Heart of Sharjah.
• RAK: Jebel Jais, Dhayah Fort, and Iceland Water Park.
• Ajman: Ajman Museum, Ajman Beach, and the Dhow Yard.
• Umm Al Quwain: Dreamland Aqua Park, Umm Al Quwain Fort, and the UAQ Mangrove Beach.
• Fujairah: Fujairah Fort, Al Bidyah Mosque, and the Fujairah Wadis.

Business Environment:
• Abu Dhabi: Focus on global businesses with areas like Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM – https://www.adgm.com/).
• Dubai: Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC – https://www.difc.ae/) and free zones like JAFZA.
• Sharjah: Trade-oriented with the Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone – https://www.saif-zone.com/).
• RAK: The RAK Economic Zone (RAKEZ – https://rakez.com/en/) is a significant business hub.
• Ajman: Ajman Free Zone boosts its manufacturing and trade.
• Umm Al Quwain: Largely SME-driven with its Free Trade Zone.
• Fujairah: The Fujairah Free Zone (https://www.fujairahfreezone.com/) focusing on shipping and warehousing.

Cost of Living:
• Abu Dhabi: Higher-end, with central housing more expensive but competitive to Dubai.
• Dubai: High, driven by housing, entertainment, and dining costs.
• Sharjah: More affordable, especially in housing, compared to its neighboring Dubai.
• RAK: Reasonable, with lower housing costs.
• Ajman: Among the most affordable emirates in terms of living costs.
• Umm Al Quwain: Low cost of living, especially for housing.
• Fujairah: Moderate, with affordable housing options.

Conclusion:
The seven emirates, while bound by a shared vision and national pride, offer diverse experiences. From the ultra-modern aura of Dubai to the historical richness of Ras Al Khaimah, from the cultural essence of Sharjah to the serene landscapes of Umm Al Quwain, the UAE is truly a mosaic of distinctive gems.

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