Emiratis

{{Main|History of the United Arab Emirates|Magan (civilization)|Archaeology of the United Arab Emirates}}The history of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a rich tapestry of ancient traditions, colonial influences, and modern development.File:Deira, Dubai, 1950s.jpg in Deira, Dubai, 1950s.]]

File:Sheikh Said and Sheikh Juma Al Maktoum.jpg (left) and Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum (right) of the Maktoum family]]

The ancient history of the UAE dates back centuries with archaeological sites, such as Jebel Faya, indicating human presence as far back as 125,000 years ago.{{Cite web |title=Jebel Faya – Sharjah Events |url=https://sharjahevents.ae/en/Sharjah/jebel-faya/ |access-date=2024-03-05 |website=sharjahevents.ae}} Evidence of human settlement and civilization can be found at sites like Al-Ain and Jebel Hafeet,{{Cite web |date=2018-02-11 |title=Hafit Tombs |url=https://abudhabiculture.ae/en/discover/pre-historic-and-palaeontology/jebel-hafeet-tombs |access-date=2024-03-05 |website=Abu Dhabi Culture |language=en}} and the region's importance as a trading hub along maritime routes connecting Mesopotamia, the Indus Valley, Meluhha, Elam, and Ancient Egypt, as evidenced by artifacts such as pottery, seals, and coins discovered at archaeological sites like Tell Abraq, Umm Al-Nar, and Ed-Dur, showcasing the early civilizations that flourished in the area, including the Magan and Dilmun civilizations, as well as the later influence of the Sumerians, Akkadians, Persians, and Greeks, all of which contributed to the cultural, ethnic, and historical development of the region.{{Cite web |title=Digging in the Land of Magan – Archaeology Magazine Archive |url=https://archive.archaeology.org/9705/abstracts/magan.html |access-date=2024-03-05 |website=archive.archaeology.org}}{{Cite web |title=United Arab Emirates : a new perspective {{!}} WorldCat.org |url=https://search.worldcat.org/title/47140175 |access-date=2024-03-05 |website=search.worldcat.org |language=en}}{{Cite journal |last=Vilos |first=Jamie |date=2011-05-01 |title=Bioarchaeology of compassion: Exploring extreme cases of pathology in a Bronze Age skeletal population from Tell Abraq, U.A.E. |url=https://digitalscholarship.unlv.edu/thesesdissertations/967 |journal=UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones |doi=10.34917/2308397}}{{Cite web |last=Centre |first=UNESCO World Heritage |title=Settlement and Cemetery of Umm an-Nar Island |url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/5660/ |access-date=2024-03-05 |website=UNESCO World Heritage Centre |language=en}}

The United Arab Emirates are a Union of seven emirates whose history are entwined with various empires, such as those of the Islamic Caliphates, Oman, Portugal, Iran, and the United Kingdom. Envoys from the Islamic prophet Muhammad saw the tribes of the area convert to Islam around 630 C.E., followed by a short period of apostasy which culminated in the Battle of Dibba.

Later in the 16th century, the Portuguese would battle the then-dominant force in the Persian Gulf, the Safavid dynasty, for control of the region. During the 17th century, the Ottomans took control of the islands and UAE was known as the "Pirate Coast." By the 19th century, the British Empire had taken complete control of the land then called the Trucial States.{{cite book|title=Travel Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Illustrated Guide, Phrasebook and Maps|author=MobileReference|publisher=Google eBooks|year=2010|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KuwWKHmKmyoC&q=History+of+Emirates&pg=PT319|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160123103303/https://books.google.com/books?id=KuwWKHmKmyoC&pg=PT319&dq=History+of+Emirates&hl=en&ei=YUXQTd7fHaXt0gGw8rWCDg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CEMQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=History%20of%20Emirates&f=false|archive-date=23 January 2016|isbn=978-1-60778-836-2}} Oil was discovered in 1959. The Trucial States were under the control of the British Empire until 1971. Consequently, with weakening British control, the Trucial States became the UAE in 1971 with Ras al-Khaimah joining in 1972.

The term Emirati comes from the plural of the Arabic word emirate ({{langx|ar|إمارة}}), with adding the suffix -i. Each emirate is ruled by a Sheikh. The Bani Yas tribe forms the basis of many clans within the UAE. Sub-clans of the Bani Yas include[https://books.google.com/books?id=98Chiu4kug4C&pg=PA156 : The Government and Politics of the Middle East and North Africa] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151105080413/https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=98Chiu4kug4C&oi=fnd&pg=PA128&ots=2Q9YZxEtcf&sig=-G79_Neg5e3ToWx4DMMBT0kOm1U |date=5 November 2015 }}. Long, Reich.

• Al Bu Falah (Abu Dhabi)
• Al Bu Falasah (Dubai)

The term "Emirati" also refers to Arabs with origins in the UAE. Many modern Emirati names are derived from these tribal names or offshoots of these tribes, for instance, Mazroui (from Mazari), Nuaimi (from Naim), and Al Sharqi (from Sharqiyin).{{Cite book|title = From Trucial States to United Arab Emirates|last = Heard-Bey|first = Frauke|publisher = Longman|year = 1990|isbn = 0-582-27728-0|location = London|pages = 27–80}}

File:Reem Al Hashimi (14218022328) (cropped).jpg, Minister of State and Managing Director for the Dubai Expo 2020 Bid.]]

The word Emirati is a word derived from the Arabic name of the UAE "Al-Emarat," and the Arabic suffix -i which denotes belonging. The demonym Emirian has a similar root from except with the suffix -ian being added to emir. Rarer Emirian demonyms and adjectives include Emiri and Emiratian, both of which are unofficial and informal alternatives.{{cite book|last1=Douglas|first1=Allen|title=Arab comic strips|date=1994|page=150}} However, due to strong tribal allegiances, many Emiratis also self-identified by their tribal affiliations.{{cite web|title=In the UAE the only tribe is the Emirati |url=https://gulfnews.com/opinion/op-eds/in-the-uae-the-only-tribe-is-the-emirati-1.1261996|work=Gulf News|date=December 2013 |access-date=25 December 2018}} Historically, Emiratis were called Trucial Coasters{{cite book|last=Winder|first=Bayly|title=Saudi Arabia in the Nineteenth Century|url=https://archive.org/details/saudiarabiainnin0000wind|url-access=registration|date=1965|page=[https://archive.org/details/saudiarabiainnin0000wind/page/33 33]}} or Trucials.Marc J. O'Reilly. Unexceptional: America's Empire in the Persian Gulf, 1941–2007, p. 66 Emiratis in ancient history were called Maganites.Winder, Bayly (1965). Saudi Arabia in the Nineteenth Century. p. 33.

{{Main|National symbols of the United Arab Emirates}}

Falcon training is one of the UAE's national symbols. These birds can be seen on the emblem of the United Arab Emirates. They were traditionally used for hunting, and trained by the Bedouin tribes. Most Emiratis view Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan as an essential component of Emirati nationalism,{{cite book|last1=Cross|first1=Jay|title=Informal Learning|date=2011}} Emiratis are commonly referred to as "Eyal Zayed," meaning sons of Zayed.{{Cite book |last=Al-Nuaimi |first=Sultan Mohammed |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KeqCEAAAQBAJ&dq=eyal+zayed&pg=PA23 |title=Zayed: Identity of the People and Nation |date=2022-01-01 |publisher=Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research |isbn=978-9948-21-011-5 |language=en}} Emiratis are proud of their nation's global name associated with tourist prospects, prefer interactions with fellow nationals, most are computer literate and adult Emiratis born in the 21st century are more likely to be bilingual{{cite news | url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/07/06/emiratis-dress-code_n_1653446.html | work=Huffington Post | title=Emiratis Want Crackdown On Tourists' Skimpy Dresses | date=6 July 2012 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141007060053/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/07/06/emiratis-dress-code_n_1653446.html | archive-date=7 October 2014 | df=dmy-all }}{{cite book|last1=Mahdi|first1=Ali|title=Teen Life in the Middle East|date=2003|page=239}} There are many landmarks and sculptures in the country of teapots, water jugs and coffeemakers to symbolize the hospitality of the Emirati people. Due to the pearl-diving history of the Emirates, nautical sailing and other activities at sea are sometimes emphasized.{{cite book|last1=Bruijn|first1=Liza|title=Doing the deal, globally|date=2010|page=140}} Due to its prominence throughout Emirati history in cultivation, date fruits play an important role in Emirati life. Another national symbol is the Arabic coffee pot with the elongated thin spout called a Dallah; a sign of Emirati generosity.The national symbols of the UAE encapsulate the country's rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and values of unity, resilience, and pride. These symbols are celebrated and revered by the Emirati people and play a vital role in the nation's identity.

File:Stamp of Abu Dhabi - 1967 - Colnect 288504 - Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus.jpeg|The Falcon is the national bird of the UAE. A symbol of pride.{{Cite web |date=2023-06-16 |title=National Bird of UAE: the Saker Falcon, an emblem of pride soaring through 5 facts {{!}} The Middle East Beat |url=https://themiddleeastbeat.com/national-bird-of-uae/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230616144059/https://themiddleeastbeat.com/national-bird-of-uae/ |url-status=usurped |archive-date=16 June 2023 |access-date=2024-03-05 |language=en-GB}}

File:A dallah a traditional Arabic coffee pot with cups and coffee beans.jpg|A dallah is a traditional Arabic coffee pot for serving Arabian coffee. It is a symbol of the Emirati culture, featuring on the United Arab Emirates dirham coin.

File:PALM TREE.jpg|The 'Nakhla' date palm, a symbol of prosperity.{{Cite web |last=Jalal |first=Maan |date=2023-01-20 |title='Nakhla': the Arabic word for palm tree – an enduring symbol of the region |url=https://www.thenationalnews.com/weekend/2023/01/20/nakhla-the-arabic-word-for-palm-tree-an-enduring-symbol-of-the-region/ |access-date=2024-03-05 |website=The National |language=en}}

File:After the flag raising ceremony at the Union House in Dubai.jpg|The 6 founding fathers of the UAE.{{Cite web |title=Founders of the Union {{!}} The Official Portal of the UAE Government |url=https://u.ae/en/about-the-uae/founders-of-the-union |access-date=2024-03-05 |website=u.ae |language=en}}

{{Main|Demographics of the United Arab Emirates}}

The population of the UAE as of 2019 was 9.7 million{{Cite web|url=https://population.un.org/wpp/DataQuery/|title=World Population Prospects – Population Division – United Nations|website=population.un.org}} with a minority being Emiratis. However, this figure is constantly changing due to migration and other factors. UAE nationals make up 1 million.{{cite web | last=Snoj | first=Jure | title=UAE's population – by nationality | website=bq Magazine | date=April 12, 2022 | url=http://www.bq-magazine.com/economy/socioeconomics/2015/04/uae-population-by-nationality | access-date=February 28, 2017 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170321184658/http://www.bq-magazine.com/economy/socioeconomics/2015/04/uae-population-by-nationality | archive-date=March 21, 2017 }}

As of 2022 the total fertility rate (TFR) of the Emirati population stood at 3.1, significantly higher than the national average of 1.46 in the same year, though reflecting a 16% decline from 3.7 in 2015.{{Cite web |title=Fertility Rates |url=https://uaestat.fcsc.gov.ae/vis?lc=en&fs[0]=FCSC%20-%20Statistical%20Hierarchy%2C0%7CFertility%23VTS_FT%23&pg=0&fc=FCSC%20-%20Statistical%20Hierarchy&snb=1&df[ds]=FCSC-RDS&df[id]=DF_FERT&df[ag]=FCSA&df[vs]=1.3.0 |access-date=12 May 2025 |website=UAE.Stat Data Explorer |agency=Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority; Ministry of Health and Prevention}}

Statistics for UAE nationals in 2018 as it follows:{{Cite journal |last=Jham |first=Vimi |date=2012 |title=Change management in retail banking in the UAE: an assessment of some key antecedents of customer satisfaction and demographics |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1504/ijscm.2012.051847 |journal=International Journal of Strategic Change Management |volume=4 |issue=3/4 |pages=229 |doi=10.1504/ijscm.2012.051847 |issn=1740-2859|url-access=subscription }}

Non-Emiratis form the vast majority of the UAE (88.52%) and are composed of expatriates, with the largest groups hailing from South Asian countries such as India (2.62 million), Pakistan (1.21 million) and Bangladesh (706,000). There are also nationals of other GCC and Arab countries who live in the UAE. Members of other Asian communities, including Iran (454,000), the Philippines (530,000).[https://www.globalmediainsight.com/blog/uae-population-statistics/ UNITED ARAB EMIRATES POPULATION STATISTICS] (2018)

{{Main|Category:Tribes of the United Arab Emirates}}

File:Buraimi War.3.webp during the Buraimi dispute (1950s).]]

Bedouin Emiratis, also known as Bedu Emiratis or Bedouin Arab Emiratis, are Emiratis of Bedouin Arab descent. They have historically lived nomadically in the desert, adapting to harsh conditions by moving with their families and animals in search of water and grazing areas. This nomadic lifestyle has fostered a strong sense of community and kinship among Bedouin tribes, with social structures traditionally organized around extended family networks and tribal affiliations.{{Cite web |last=Nowais |first=Shireena Al |date=2020-11-30 |title=Memories of '71: How an early community economy helped Emiratis to survive |url=https://www.thenationalnews.com/uae/heritage/memories-of-71-how-an-early-community-economy-helped-emiratis-to-survive-1.1120117 |access-date=2024-03-05 |website=The National}} Among the prominent Bedouin tribes in the UAE are the Al Bu Falah, Al Bu Shamis, Al Bu Qitab, Al Awamir, Al Nuaimi, and Al Kaabi, among others, each tracing their ancestry to different regions across the Middle East such as Yemen, Najd, Hejaz, and other parts of the Arabian Peninsula.{{Cite web |title=The Bani Yas Tribes of United Arab Emirates |url=https://sheikhmohammed.ae/en-us/baniyastribe |access-date=2024-03-05 |website=sheikhmohammed.ae |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |title=The UAE: A Brief History, Part 2 Tribal Allegiances The Backbone of UAE |url=https://www.alshindagah.com/en/article/en-us/13/13/16/34/154/the-uae-a-brief-history-part-2-tribal-allegiances-the-backbone-of-uae |access-date=2024-03-05 |website=AlShindagah.com}} While modernization and urbanization have brought about changes in Emirati society, many Bedouin Emiratis continue to maintain ties to their nomadic heritage, even as they settle into more sedentary lifestyles in urban areas.

Bedouin culture emphasizes preserving traditions through oral history, storytelling, and rituals, including distinctive clothing and music.{{Cite journal |last=Rainey |first=Elizabeth |date=2015 |title=The Art of Storytelling in Bedouin Society: A 21st-Century Ethnographic Collection of Poems from the United Arab Emirates |url=https://journals.lib.unb.ca/index.php/MCR/article/view/25624 |journal=Material Culture Review |language=en |issn=1927-9264}} Emirati traditions of Bedouin origin include: Yowlah, Falconry, Nabati Poetry, Razfa, Al Sadu, Emirati coffee culture, and the national clothing of the UAE.

Bedouin Emirati culture is often synonymous with Emirati culture. The Emirati government has embraced the Bedouin identity to shape the newly-united Emirati national identity, emphasizing values like resilience and hospitality to unify the diverse and often-times conflicting population. They promote Bedouin heritage to instill pride and belonging in Emirati citizens while adapting to modernization. This includes integrating Bedouin history into education, showcasing traditions in cultural initiatives, and incorporating Bedouin customs into national celebrations.{{Cite web |title=Beyond the Bedouin path: The evolution of Emirati national identity |url=https://www.mei.edu/publications/beyond-bedouin-path-evolution-emirati-national-identity |access-date=2024-03-05 |website=Middle East Institute |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Nuances of Emirati Identity |url=https://encyclopedia.pub/entry/52589 |access-date=2024-03-05 |website=encyclopedia.pub |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=In the UAE the only tribe is the Emirati |url=https://sultanalqassemi.com/articles/in-the-uae-the-only-tribe-is-the-emirati/ |access-date=2024-03-05 |website=sultanalqassemi.com}}

{{Main|Ajam Emiratis|Iranians in the United Arab Emirates}}

File:Mahdi Ali 2015.jpg, former coach of the UAE national team.]]

Ajam Emiratis, also known as Ayam Emiratis, Persian Emiratis or Iranian Emiratis, are Emiratis of Persian and Iranian descent. Majority of Ajam Emiratis trace their ancestral roots to Southern Iran, particularly the provinces of Fars and Hormozgan.{{Cite web |title=Mapping Iranian Migrants and their Networks in Bahrain, 1920–1950 |url=https://cdh.princeton.edu/projects/mapping-iranian-migrants-and-their-networks-bahrain-1920-1950/ |access-date=2024-03-10 |website=The Center for Digital Humanities at Princeton |language=en}} The migration of Persians to Eastern Arabia, including the UAE, has occurred over centuries as historically, Persians have played a significant role in the cultural and economic development of what is now the UAE. The region, known as Magan and the province of Mazun in ancient times, was subject to various Persian empires, including the Achaemenid, Parthian, and Sassanian dynasties and a significant trading partner of the ancient Elam. Persian influence extended beyond political control to include trade, commerce, and cultural exchange. Moreover, the historical presence of the Kingdom of Hormuz, an influential Persian Gulf trading kingdom which controlled both sides of the gulf, further strengthened ties between Persians and Eastern Arabians.{{Cite book |last1=Fisher |first1=William Bayne |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ko_RafMSGLkC |title=The Cambridge History of Iran |last2=Yarshater |first2=Ehsan |date=1968 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-0-521-20092-9 |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Foundation |first=Encyclopaedia Iranica |title=Welcome to Encyclopaedia Iranica |url=https://iranicaonline.org/ |access-date=2024-03-10 |website=iranicaonline.org |language=en-US}}{{Cite journal |last=Hansman |first=John |date=1973 |title=A "Periplus" of Magan and Meluḫḫa |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/613582 |journal=Bulletin of the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London |volume=36 |issue=3 |pages=554–587 |doi=10.1017/S0041977X00119858 |jstor=613582 |issn=0041-977X|url-access=subscription }}{{Cite web |title=hormuz – Mongol Asia and Its Legacy |url=https://cgacoursemodule.hosting.nyu.edu/student-websites/20fall-b2/hormuz/ |access-date=2024-03-10 |language=en}}

File:Anwar Gargash.jpg, the senior diplomatic advisor to the President of the United Arab Emirates.]]

During the 18th and 19th centuries, substantial migration from southern Iran to the UAE transpired due to burgeoning trade networks and maritime commerce. This migration led to a significant settlement of Persians in coastal cities such as Dubai, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah, contributing to the region's cultural diversity and commercial growth. The Qassimi rulers, who governed territories in both southern Iran and the Emirates during this period, facilitated trade and migration between the two regions, thereby bolstering connections between Ajam communities in Iran and the UAE.{{Cite web |title=The 'Ajamis' of the Emirates: a celebrated history |url=https://sultanalqassemi.com/articles/the-ajamis-of-the-emirates-a-celebrated-history/ |access-date=2024-03-10 |website=sultanalqassemi.com}}{{Cite web |last=Sarmadi |first=Behzad |date=2013-05-20 |title="This Place Should Have Been Iran": Iranian Imaginings in/of Dubai |url=https://ajammc.com/2013/05/20/this-place-that-should-have-been-iran-iranian-imaginings-inof-dubai/ |access-date=2024-03-10 |website=Ajam Media Collective |language=en-US}} In 1972, Article 17 of the newly promulgated Citizenship and Passport Law offered Emirati citizenship to Iranians who were living in the British-protected Trucial States prior to 1925 or before the UAE's independence in 1971.{{Cite web |title=gcc-legal.org |url=http://www.gcc-legal.org/LawAsPDF.aspx?opt&country=0&LawID=3147#Section_6582 |access-date=2024-03-10 |website=www.gcc-legal.org}}{{Cite web |last=Glioti |first=Andrea |date=2018-08-18 |title=The untold Iranian story of the UAE |url=https://monitoring.bbc.co.uk/product/c200517n |access-date=2024-03-10 |website=monitoring.bbc.co.uk}}{{Cite web |date=2018-08-05 |title=قانون الجنسية وجوازات السفر ( 17 / 1972 ) |url=http://www.gcc-legal.org/LawAsPDF.aspx?opt&country=0&LawID=3147#Section_6582 |access-date=2024-03-10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180805052324/http://www.gcc-legal.org/LawAsPDF.aspx?opt&country=0&LawID=3147#Section_6582 |archive-date=5 August 2018 }}

File:Abdul Rahim Galadari and Abdul Latif Galadari.jpg, a Huwala-Emirati family who contributed significantly to the rise of Dubai.]]

Ajam Emiratis comprise the majority of the Shia Emirati population, with the remaining Shia Emiratis predominantly being Baharna Emiratis. Among the Sunni Ajam Emiratis, a notable portion trace their ancestry to the Achomi people, an ethnic subgroup within the broader Persian community.{{Cite web |title=Who are the Sunnah in Iran? – SONS OF SUNNAH |url=https://sunnah30.rssing.com/chan-10530511/all_p2.html |access-date=2024-03-10 |website=sunnah30.rssing.com}}{{Cite web |title=Is Sectarian Balance in the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Qatar at Risk? |url=https://www.aei.org/research-products/report/is-sectarian-balance-in-the-united-arab-emirates-oman-and-qatar-at-risk/ |access-date=2024-03-10 |website=American Enterprise Institute – AEI |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Nowais |first=Shireena Al |date=2018-11-01 |title=Neighbourhood Watch: Shiite area of Abu Dhabi proves tolerance is 'not just a UAE catchphrase' |url=https://www.thenationalnews.com/uae/neighbourhood-watch-shiite-area-of-abu-dhabi-proves-tolerance-is-not-just-a-uae-catchphrase-1.786697 |access-date=2024-03-10 |website=The National |language=en}} The Achomi primarily reside in southern Iran and their native language is Achomi.{{Cite web |title=Nwf.com: تاريخ جنوب فارس: مهران: كتب |url=https://www.neelwafurat.com/itempage.aspx?id=lbb391342-388816&search=books |access-date=2024-03-10 |website=www.neelwafurat.com}} Many Ajam Emiratis, particularly those in Ras Al Khaimah and Dibba, are of Kumzari ancestry and also communicate in Kumzari.{{Cite journal |last1=Thomas |first1=Bertram |last2=Edmonds |first2=C. J. |date=1930 |title=The Kumzari Dialect of the Shihuh Tribe, Arabia, and a Vocabulary |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/44012874 |journal=The Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland |issue=4 |pages=785–854 |jstor=44012874 |issn=0035-869X}} Additionally, many Ajam are of Afro-Iranian and Huwala origin.Murooshid, H. (2019) Intermarriage between Arab and Ajam, dpublication. Available at: https://www.dpublication.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/ICARSS-1-188.pdf (Accessed: 2024). Ajam Emiratis constitute the majority of the Bedoon population, many whom reportedly hold Comoran passports due to a deal between the governments of the UAE and Comoros.{{Citation |title=لماذا اشترت الإمارات جنسية جزر القمر لمجموعة من الأحوازيين | date=29 May 2012 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zy7qFVf09uU |access-date=2024-03-10 |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Zacharias |first=Anna |date=2018-09-05 |title=Explained: Who are the bidoon? |url=https://www.thenationalnews.com/uae/explained-who-are-the-bidoon-1.767398 |access-date=2024-03-10 |website=The National |language=en}}

The Ajam community has left a significant imprint on Emirati culture. Persian culinary traditions have merged with local Emirati cuisine, evident in dishes featuring Persian spices, ingredients, and cooking techniques. Persian music, dance, and literature also hold influence in the UAE, contributing to the country's cultural diversity and artistic expressions. Emirati Arabic has absorbed a significant number of words from Persian and other Iranian languages. Persian influence is also evident in Emirati architecture, notably through features such as the Barjeel, a traditional windcatcher of Persian origin. Qasr al-Hosn, the oldest stone building in the UAE, was designed by Mohammed Al Bastaki in 1761. Al Bastakiya, a historical district in the city of Dubai, was built by Ajam Emirati merchants, many of Bastaki origin, a city in southern Iran.{{Citation |last=Akinci |first=Idil |title=Language, nation, difference: Everyday language tactics of young Emiratis |date=2020-03-11 |work=Gulf Cooperation Council Culture and Identities in the New Millennium: Resilience, Transformation, (Re)Creation and Diffusion, Contemporary Gulf Studies |series=Contemporary Gulf Studies |pages=201–219 |url=https://www.research.ed.ac.uk/en/publications/language-nation-difference-everyday-language-tactics-of-young-emi |access-date=2024-03-10 |publisher=Palgrave Macmillan |doi=10.1007/978-981-15-1529-3_11 |isbn=978-981-15-1528-6 |language=English|url-access=subscription }}{{Cite web |title=قصر الحصن حارس تاريخ أبوظبي |url=https://www.alkhaleej.ae/%D9%85%D9%84%D8%AD%D9%82/%D9%82%D8%B5%D8%B1-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AD%D8%B5%D9%86-%D8%AD%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%B3-%D8%AA%D8%A7%D8%B1%D9%8A%D8%AE-%D8%A3%D8%A8%D9%88%D8%B8%D8%A8%D9%8A |access-date=2024-03-10 |website=صحيفة الخليج |language=ar}}{{Cite web |date=2008-11-02 |title=UAE museum: Qasr Al Hosn in Abu Dhabi |url=https://gulfnews.com/entertainment/arts-culture/uae-museum-qasr-al-hosn-in-abu-dhabi-1.100253 |access-date=2024-03-10 |website=gulfnews.com |language=en}}{{Cite book |last1=Leung |first1=Tommi Tsz-Cheung |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=YjINEAAAQBAJ&dq=emirati+loan+words&pg=PA45 |title=Emirati Arabic: A Comprehensive Grammar |last2=Ntelitheos |first2=Dimitrios |last3=Kaabi |first3=Meera Al |date=2020-12-30 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-1-00-031756-5 |language=en}}

Some Ajam Emiratis have found themselves caught in the crossfire of the Iran-Arabia proxy conflict, facing challenges such as discrimination, political tensions, and economic uncertainty. The UAE's strategic alliance with Saudi Arabia, coupled with its efforts to maintain neutrality in regional conflicts, has created a complex environment for Ajam communities with connections to Iran. Instances of heightened security measures, surveillance, and political scrutiny targeting individuals perceived to have affiliations with Iran have been reported. Anti-Iranian sentiment has also been promoted due to disputes over Abu Musa and the Greater and Lesser Tunbs, the Persian Gulf naming dispute, and the Sunni-Shia divide. Many argue that the Emirati government ignore historical Ajam Emirati influence and identity in favor of promoting a more unified Arab Bedouin identity.{{Cite web |last=Assl |first=Nima Khorrami |title=Opinion: UAE shifts course with Iran |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/opinions/2012/5/12/will-uae-and-iran-resolve-the-three-islands-dispute |access-date=2024-03-10 |website=Al Jazeera |language=en}}{{Cite journal |last=Akinci |first=Idil |date=2020-08-08 |title=Dressing the nation? Symbolizing Emirati national identity and boundaries through national dress |url=https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/01419870.2019.1665697 |journal=Ethnic and Racial Studies |language=en |volume=43 |issue=10 |pages=1776–1794 |doi=10.1080/01419870.2019.1665697 |issn=0141-9870|hdl=20.500.11820/cdf9aebb-78d7-4f8a-b369-fe9f0d27c003 |hdl-access=free }}

File:Dubai-united-arab-emirates-al-fahidi-historical-district.jpg|Al Bastakiya, Dubai

File:Qasr Al Hosn.jpg|Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi

File:Madinat Jumeirah - panoramio (2).jpg|Burjeels in Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai.

File:Fekri2n.jpg|Bandar Lengeh, Iran. Much of southern Iran was under Qassimi rule in the 18th and 19th centuries.

{{Main|Afro-Emiratis|Slavery in the United Arab Emirates}}

File:Ismail Matar QAT-UAE 20190129 Asian Cup 8 (cropped).jpg, an Afro-Emirati football player, often recognized as one of the greatest in Emirati football.]]

Afro-Emiratis, also known as Black Emiratis, are Emiratis of Black African and Afro-Arab descent. They are mostly concentrated in the Northern Emirates. Despite their minority status within the broader Emirati population, they have a significant historical presence and cultural contribution, especially in sports and music. Afro-Emirati traditions include Liwa, Fann at-Tanbura, Bandari, and Nuban.{{Cite web |last=Sekka |date=2021-04-30 |title=The African influence on Khaleeji music |url=https://sekkamag.com/2021/04/30/the-african-influence-on-khaleeji-music/ |access-date=2024-03-04 |website=Sekka |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |title=Afropop Worldwide {{!}} Feature: Africans in the Arabian (Persian) Gulf |url=https://afropop.org/articles/feature-africans-in-the-arabian-persian-gulf |access-date=2024-03-04 |website=Afropop Worldwide |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Jabry |first=Shadiah Abdullah Al |date=2012-04-30 |title=Dancers to the music of time: the Nuban |url=https://www.thenationalnews.com/arts/dancers-to-the-music-of-time-the-nuban-1.385086 |access-date=2024-03-04 |website=The National |language=en}}

The history of Afro-Emiratis dates back centuries, with evidence of trade and cultural interactions between the Arabian Peninsula and Africa existing since antiquity. Afro-Emiratis are culturally close to other African diaspora in the Persian Gulf and Arabian Peninsula, such as Afro-Omanis, Afro-Saudis, and Afro-Iranians.{{Cite web |last=Dhabi |first=NYU Abu |title=Afro-Emirati: A Unique Historical Experience |url=https://nyuad.nyu.edu/en/events/2017/november/afro-emirati-a-unique-historical-experience.html |access-date=2024-03-04 |website=New York University Abu Dhabi |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Baghoolizadeh |first=Beeta |date=2012-06-20 |title=The Afro-Iranian Community: Beyond Haji Firuz Blackface, the Slave Trade, & Bandari Music |url=https://ajammc.com/2012/06/20/the-afro-iranian-community-beyond-haji-firuz-blackface-slavery-bandari-music/ |access-date=2024-03-04 |website=Ajam Media Collective |language=en-US}}

Most Afro-Emiratis are descendants of Zanzibari, East African, and Southern African slaves. The UAE's involvement in the Indian Ocean slave trade and proximity to the Omani Empire shaped the presence of individuals of African descent in the region.{{Cite web |last=Khan |first=Taimur |date=2016-05-23 |title=Slave trade brought 800,000 Africans to the Gulf |url=https://www.thenationalnews.com/world/slave-trade-brought-800000-africans-to-the-gulf-1.181543 |access-date=2024-03-04 |website=The National |language=en}}

Afro-Emiratis, like other Emiratis, identify with the national identity of the UAE and the wider Eastern Arabian and Arab identity. Slaves were considered as members of the tribes and the families to which they were enslaved. After the abolishment of slavery, freed slaves were given the option to adopt the surname of the tribes they served, many former slaves were granted Emirati citizenship in 1971.{{Cite web |last=Akinci |first=Idil |date=2018 |title=The multiple roots of Emiratiness: the cosmopolitan history of Emirati society |url=https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/beyond-trafficking-and-slavery/the-multiple-roots-of-emiratiness/ |access-date=March 4, 2024}}

Despite enjoying full legal rights as Emirati citizens, many Afro-Emiratis face social stigma, issues of racial identity and acceptance remains complex within the UAE, efforts to promote inclusivity are ongoing, but challenges persist, particularly in areas of intermarriage and societal perceptions of an 'Emirati' identity.{{Cite journal |last1=Al Hameli |first1=Asmaa |last2=Arnuco |first2=Monerica |date=2023 |title=Exploring the Nuances of Emirati Identity: A Study of Dual Identities and Hybridity in the Post-Oil United Arab Emirates |journal=Social Sciences |language=en |volume=12 |issue=11 |pages=598 |doi=10.3390/socsci12110598 |doi-access=free |issn=2076-0760|hdl=10400.14/42935 |hdl-access=free }}{{Cite web |date=2017-12-16 |title=An Introduction To The UAEs History With East Africa |url=https://theculturetrip.com/middle-east/united-arab-emirates/articles/an-introduction-to-the-uaes-history-with-east-africa |access-date=2024-03-04 |website=Culture Trip |language=en}}

{{Main|Emirati Arabic}}

Arabic is the official language of the UAE. Emiratis predominantly communicate in Emirati Arabic (Arabic: اللهجة الإماراتية, romanized: al-Llughatyl al-Imārātīyah), a variant of Gulf Arabic that serves as the national language in the UAE, though the official status is granted to Modern Standard Arabic which is used in politics, literature, news, and diplomacy. Emirati Arabic distinguishes itself through its unique vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammatical structures, setting it apart from other Arabic dialects prevalent in the region.{{Cite book |last1=Leung |first1=Tommi Tsz-Cheung |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=JWwNEAAAQBAJ |title=Emirati Arabic: A Comprehensive Grammar |last2=Ntelitheos |first2=Dimitrios |last3=Kaabi |first3=Meera Al |date=2020-12-29 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-1-00-030055-0 |language=en}} Emirati Arabic dialects are believed to have evolved from the linguistic variations spoken by ancient pre-Islamic Arabian tribes in Eastern Arabia, particularly the Azd, Qays, and Tamim, as noted by Emirati linguist and historian, Ahmed Obaid.{{Cite web |last=البيان |first=دبي- |date=2019-09-10 |title="اللهجات الإماراتية".. بيئات وجذور |url=https://www.albayan.ae/five-senses/east-and-west/2019-09-11-1.3646124 |access-date=2024-03-14 |website=www.albayan.ae |language=ar}}

Additionally, Emirati Arabic incorporates grammatical properties from smaller varieties within the UAE, generally of tribal nature, leading to variations identifiable across different geographical regions. Emirati Arabic encompasses several dialectal variations, each with its own characteristics and influences. These variations can be broadly categorized into sub-varieties based on geographical distribution:

1. Northern Emirates Dialects: Spoken in Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Quwain, and the western part of Ras al-Khaimah. This dialect features unique phonological, lexical, and morphosyntactic features influenced by the cultural and historical context of the northern regions.
2. Eastern Emirates Dialects: Found mainly in Fujairah, Dibba, Khor Fakkan, Hatta, Kalba, and the eastern part of Ras al-Khaimah. This dialect exhibits distinct linguistic characteristics shaped by the geographical and cultural context of the eastern coastal areas.
3. Abu Dhabi Dialects: Spoken in Abu Dhabi, including the oasis city of Al Ain, with linguistic influences extending into the Omani region of Al-Buraimi. This dialect exhibits distinct linguistic features influenced by the historical and cultural dynamics of the capital region.

Furthermore, Emirati Arabic dialects can also be distinguished based on environmental factors, including variations associated with Bedouin communities, coastal, agricultural, and mountainous regions.{{Cite web |last=للأخبار |first=مركز الاتحاد |date=2016-05-19 |title=اللهجات الإماراتية فصيحة وهجينها قليل |url=https://www.aletihad.ae/article/21129/2016/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%84%D9%87%D8%AC%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A5%D9%85%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AA%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D9%81%D8%B5%D9%8A%D8%AD%D8%A9-%D9%88%D9%87%D8%AC%D9%8A%D9%86%D9%87%D8%A7-%D9%82%D9%84%D9%8A%D9%84 |access-date=2024-03-14 |website=مركز الاتحاد للأخبار |language=ar-AR}}

In addition to Emirati Arabic, various other Arabic dialects are spoken within the Emirati populace. Notably, Shihhi Arabic, prevalent in the eastern region of the UAE, particularly in the emirates of Ras al Khaimah and Fujairah.{{Cite web |last=Zacharias |first=Anna |title=Decoding the Shehhi dialect puzzle |url=https://www.thenationalnews.com/uae/heritage/decoding-the-shehhi-dialect-puzzle-1.463326 |access-date=2024-11-05 |website=The National |language=en}}

Emirati Arabic, while predominant, exists alongside several minority languages spoken by specific communities within the UAE, including:

1. Swahili: a Bantu language primarily spoken by Afro-Emirati communities, Swahili reflects historical ties between the East African coast and the Arabian Peninsula. It is prevalent among communities with ancestry tracing back to coastal regions such as Zanzibar and Kenya. However, concerns about its decline, particularly among the younger population influenced by modernization and globalization, raise questions about its preservation within Afro-Emirati communities.
2. Kumzari: a Southwestern Iranian language primarily spoken by the Shihuh and Kumzars, indigenous communities in the Musandam Peninsula and parts of the northern UAE. Kumzari exhibits unique linguistic features and ancient roots dating back to pre-Islamic times. Efforts are made to preserve and promote Kumzari as part of the cultural heritage of the region.[https://www.jstor.org/stable/44012874/ The Kumzari Dialect of the Shihuh Tribe]{{Cite web |last=Henzell |first=John |date=2012-12-07 |title=Why the Kumzari tongue consists of ancient words with a future |url=https://www.thenationalnews.com/lifestyle/why-the-kumzari-tongue-consists-of-ancient-words-with-a-future-1.354346 |access-date=2024-04-01 |website=The National |language=en}}
3. Balochi: a Northwestern Iranian language primarily spoken by Balochis and Ajam Emiratis with historical and cultural ties to the Balochistan region spanning Iran, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. Balochi-speaking communities in the UAE maintain their language as a marker of identity and cultural heritage, preserving their distinct cultural traditions.[https://www.jstor.org/stable/jj.5666705.9/ Culture Production in the Post-Maritime Gulf Metropolis]
4. Achomi: a Persian and Southwestern Iranian language primarily spoken by Ajam Emiratis, who have Persian ancestry, Achomi is a widely spoken minority language. Achomi, belonging to the Iranian branch of the Indo-Iranian language family, holds cultural significance for Ajam communities, serving as a means of maintaining connections to their Persian heritage.{{Cite book |last=Donzel |first=E. J. Van |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=zHxsWspxGIIC&q=laristan%20sunni%20fars&pg=PA1 |title=Islamic Desk Reference |date=1994-01-01 |publisher=BRILL |isbn=978-90-04-09738-4 |language=en}}Akinci, Idil. (2020). Language, Nation, Difference: Everyday Language Tactics of Young Emiratis. 10.1007/978-981-15-1529-3_11.

Arabic is used in government, legal matters, and traditional cultural practices. It is also the language of instruction in many schools. Despite the prevalence of Arabic and other minority languages, English holds significant importance as a widely understood second language, particularly in urban centers and business environments. The UAE's status as a global hub for commerce, tourism, and diplomacy has fostered the widespread adoption of English as a lingua franca, facilitating communication with individuals from diverse linguistic backgrounds.{{Cite journal |last1=Hopkyns |first1=Sarah |last2=Zoghbor |first2=Wafa |last3=Hassall |first3=Peter John |date=June 2021 |title=The use of English and linguistic hybridity among Emirati millennials |journal=World Englishes |language=en |volume=40 |issue=2 |pages=176–190 |doi=10.1111/weng.12506 |issn=0883-2919|doi-access=free }}{{Cite journal |last1=Al Hameli |first1=Asmaa |last2=Arnuco |first2=Monerica |date=November 2023 |title=Exploring the Nuances of Emirati Identity: A Study of Dual Identities and Hybridity in the Post-Oil United Arab Emirates |journal=Social Sciences |language=en |volume=12 |issue=11 |pages=598 |doi=10.3390/socsci12110598 |issn=2076-0760 |doi-access=free|hdl=10400.14/42935 |hdl-access=free }}

{{Main|Culture of the United Arab Emirates}}

Emirati culture has been described as a blend of Eastern Arabian, Islamic, and Persian cultures, with influences from the cultures of East Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, and in recent years the West.{{Cite book |last=Hurriez |first=Sayyid Hamid |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UMldAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA167 |title=Folklore and Folklife in the United Arab Emirates |date=2013-12-16 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-1-136-84907-7 |language=en}}

File:Sheikh-Mohamed-bin-Zayed.jpg, also known as MBZ, is the third president of the United Arab Emirates and the ruler of Abu Dhabi.]]

The traditional dress often worn by Emirati men includes the Kandura,or "dishdasha," which is a long white robe, an ankle-length white shirt woven from wool or cotton, and the Ghutra, a traditional headdress usually made from wool. It provides protection from sunburn, dust, and sand, and it is usually worn alongside the Agal which keeps it in place.{{cite web |title=Traditional Dress of UAE Emirati Dress for Men and Women |url=https://www.dayoutdubai.ae/blog/safari/traditional-dress-of-uae-dubai/ |accessdate=21 May 2021}} This attire is particularly well-suited to the UAE's hot, dry climate.

File:ZayedBinKhalifa.jpg.]]

Other traditional Emirati piece of clothing for men include:{{Cite web |date=2010-08-26 |title=Traditional Clothing in UAE |url=https://www.dubai.com/blog/traditional-clothing-in-uae/ |access-date=2022-06-15 |website=Dubai Blog}}{{Cite web |title=Gulf: What differentiates the Dishdasha from the Kandora? |url=https://gulfnews.com/photos/lifestyle/gulf-what-differentiates-the-dishdasha-from-the-kandora-1.1601284787970 |access-date=2022-06-15 |website=gulfnews.com |date=28 September 2020 |language=en}}

• The Bisht, a long black cloak embroidered and decorated with silver, copper, or gold of Persian origin, is usually worn over the Kandura on special occasions.
• The Shemagh, similar to the Ghutra but made of heavier material and is more commonly worn by the younger generation.
• The Gahfiyah, also known as Taqiyah, a traditional hat of African origin usually worn under the Ghutra.

File:Arab emirati people.jpg

• The Faneela, a white vest worn under the Kandura
• The Wizar, a loose piece of undergarment worn under the Kandura that is tied around the waist
• The Na'al, heelless slippers made from leather.
• The Serwaal, an alternative to the Woozar, wide and baggy trousers held up by a drawstring or an elastic belt usually worn the Kandura
• The Tarboush, a long loose tassel attached to the Kandura

Women

File:AYU5F3P7K4BY3JZBPFPB7KO5EM.jpg

The traditional dress most commonly worn by Emirati women is the Abaya, a simple, loose-over garment, usually black in color, it is often worn alongside the Shayla, a long rectangular headscarf. Usually it is either wrapped around the neck and tucked or pinned in place at the shoulders.{{Cite news |title=What's the difference between a hijab, niqab and burka? - CBBC Newsround |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/24118241 |access-date=2022-06-15 |language=en-GB}}{{Cite book |last=Yarwood |first=Doreen |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ktDfAAAAMAAJ&q=the+encyclopedia+of+world+costume |title=The Encyclopedia of World Costume |date=1978 |publisher=Scribner |isbn=978-0-684-15805-1 |language=en}}Abayas are often made from lightweight fabrics like crepe, chiffon, or silk.{{Citation |title=Pickers for looms. Weaving yarns made from cotton. Silk and man made fibres |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.3403/30308372u |access-date=2024-09-03 |publisher=BSI British Standards|doi=10.3403/30308372u |url-access=subscription }}

Other traditional Emirati piece of clothing for women include:

• The Gishwah, a light see-through fabric that is wrapped around the face.
• The Battoulah, also known as Gulf Burqa, a metallic-looking mask that typically covers a woman's eyebrows and lower face. The burqa is mainly worn for modesty by married women. However, it also protects a woman's face from the sweltering sun and dust, and according to numerous tales, the burqa's design was influenced by the countenance of the falcon.{{Cite web |date=2014-12-01 |title=History Project: The burqa |url=https://www.thenationalnews.com/uae/heritage/history-project-the-burqa-1.303584 |access-date=2022-06-15 |website=The National |language=en}}
• The Jalabiya, a colourful embroidered dress, is the traditional attire of Emirati women. There are many different types of jalabiyas. Jalabiyas worn daily are usually made of cotton threads or prism embroidery threads, while jalabiyas worn on special occasions such as weddings and Eid are called thobes. Thobes are made of zari threads (shiny threads) and crystals. The jalabiya comes in traditional forms as well as modern ones, varying in designs, colours and materials.{{Cite web |last=أبوظبي |first=إيناس محيسن ـــ |date=2015-07-25 |title=زينة المرأة في الإمـارات قصة مطرّزة بـ "التلي" |url=https://www.emaratalyoum.com/life/four-sides/2015-07-26-1.805557 |access-date=2024-03-21 |website=www.emaratalyoum.com |language=ar}}
• Gold is a very important part of Emirati attire. Many unique gold pieces adorn woman from head to toe. Some accessories are worn daily, such as the heyool (bracelet), mariya (necklace), and shighab (earrings).{{Cite web |last=والي |first=دبي-نجاة |date=2022-12-14 |title=مجوهرات المرأة الإماراتية رموز خالدة تعبر عن جمالية التراث |url=https://www.albayan.ae/culture-art/heritage/2022-12-15-1.4580249 |access-date=2024-03-20 |website=www.albayan.ae |language=ar}} Other pieces are only worn on special events such as:
• The tassah, a heavy headpiece made of pure gold with dangling gold chains draping over the hair.
• The haqqab, a gold belt usually worn on top of the thobe.
• Fitakh, a wide toe ring that covers most of a woman's toe.{{Cite web |title=حكايات الذهب |url=https://artsandculture.google.com/story/%D8%AD%D9%83%D8%A7%D9%8A%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B0%D9%87%D8%A8/IAXRYJxU7vGaIw |access-date=2024-03-20 |website=الفنون والثقافة من Google |language=ar}}

File:Yowlah.jpg in an Emirati wedding. Yowlah is a cultural dance native to the UAE derived from tribal sword battles.]]

The influence of Islamic culture on Emirati architecture, music, attire, cuisine, and lifestyle are very prominent. Five times every day, Muslims are called for the prayer from the minarets of mosques which are spread around the country.{{cite web |url=http://www.uae.gov.ae/Government/culture.htm |title=UAE Culture |publisher=Uae.gov.ae |date=1 June 2000 |access-date=15 July 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090719070403/http://www.uae.gov.ae/Government/culture.htm |archive-date=19 July 2009 |url-status=dead }}

File:Ayyala.jpg, which is a cultural dance derived from Arab tribes sword battles.]]

{{Main|Music of the United Arab Emirates}}

The United Arab Emirates enjoys a strong tradition of music and dance which played a vital role in many aspects of its people's lives. Emirati music varies to each area although most are on folklore's, some cultural dances are the Harbiya which is well known all over the United Arab Emirates. The Al-Ayyalah" or "Yowla," is a traditional Emirati folk dance that holds significant cultural importance in the United Arab Emirates and other parts of the Arabian Peninsula. It is often performed at national celebrations, weddings, and other important cultural events. Other music is shalat which does not involve any type of instruments.

{{Main|Religion in the United Arab Emirates}}

Islam is the largest and the official state religion of the UAE and the government follows a policy of tolerating the existence of other religions, through the Ministry of Tolerance.

There are approximately 31 churches throughout the country, one Hindu temple in the region of Jebel Ali, 2 Sikh Gurudwaras, (with the biggest one located in the Jebel Ali district of Dubai), a Buddhist temple in the Al Garhoud of Dubai{{cite web |url=http://archive.gulfnews.com/uae/about_uae/more_stories/10203234.html |title=Gulfnews: Churches and temples in the UAE |publisher=Archive.gulfnews.com |date=5 April 2008 |access-date=15 July 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090731114912/http://archive.gulfnews.com/uae/about_uae/more_stories/10203234.html |archive-date=31 July 2009 }} and 2 synagogues (1 for visitors during Shabbat only).{{cite web|url=https://www.jewishuae.com/templates/articlecco_cdo/aid/4930203/jewish/SYNAGOGUES.htm |title=Synagogues |publisher=Jewish UAE |date=12 April 2023 |access-date=12 April 2023 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405000436/https://www.jewishuae.com/templates/articlecco_cdo/aid/4930203/jewish/SYNAGOGUES.htm |archive-date=5 April 2023 }} Emiratis are majority Muslims, approximately 90% of whom are Sunni while the remaining 10% are Shia.There are also 2 Sikh Gurudwaras with the biggest one in Jebel Ali and a Buddhist temple in Al Garhoud.[https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/irf/2005/51612.htm United Arab Emirates Religion]

Different Islamic schools of thought are followed by Emiratis. The Bani Yas, which today form the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and Emirate of Dubai, traditionally adhere to the Sunni Maliki school of Islamic jurisprudence from the Uyunid dynasty, who spread the Maliki school by the command of Sheikh Abdullah bin Ali Al Uyuni. The four emirates of Sharjah, Umm al-Quwain, Ras al-Khaimah, and Ajman follow the Hanbali school, and the Emirate of Fujairah follows the Shafi'i school.

The government gives freedom to people to choose their significant others.{{Cite web|url=http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/irf/2009/127360.htm|title=United Arab Emirates|date=31 October 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091031224349/http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/irf/2009/127360.htm|archive-date=31 October 2009}}

{{further|Genetic history of the Middle East}}

DNA tests of Y chromosomes from representative sample of Emiratis were analyzed for composition and frequencies of haplogroups, a plurality (45.1%) belong to Haplogroup J1-M267 which was originally found in the Caucasus and the Middle East Other frequent haplogroups divided between E (16.1%), R (11.6%), T (4.9%) and G (4.3%).{{Cite journal |last1=Cadenas |first1=Alicia M. |last2=Zhivotovsky |first2=Lev A. |last3=Cavalli-Sforza |first3=Luca L. |last4=Underhill |first4=Peter A. |last5=Herrera |first5=Rene J. |date=March 2008 |title=Y-chromosome diversity characterizes the Gulf of Oman |journal=European Journal of Human Genetics |language=en |volume=16 |issue=3 |pages=374–386 |doi=10.1038/sj.ejhg.5201934 |issn=1476-5438 |doi-access=free|pmid=17928816 }}

A study published in the European Journal of Human Genetics (2019) showed that Emiratis, along with Bedouins and other Middle-Easterners share genetic similarities with Europeans from the Mediterranean, and Balkans, and North Africans and therefore are considered Caucasian.{{Cite journal |last1=Pakstis |first1=Andrew J. |last2=Gurkan |first2=Cemal |last3=Dogan |first3=Mustafa |last4=Balkaya |first4=Hasan Emin |last5=Dogan |first5=Serkan |last6=Neophytou |first6=Pavlos I. |last7=Cherni |first7=Lotfi |last8=Boussetta |first8=Sami |last9=Khodjet-El-Khil |first9=Houssein |last10=Ben Ammar ElGaaied |first10=Amel |last11=Salvo |first11=Nina Mjølsnes |last12=Janssen |first12=Kirstin |last13=Olsen |first13=Gunn-Hege |last14=Hadi |first14=Sibte |last15=Almohammed |first15=Eida Khalaf |date=December 2019 |title=Genetic relationships of European, Mediterranean, and SW Asian populations using a panel of 55 AISNPs |journal=European Journal of Human Genetics |volume=27 |issue=12 |pages=1885–1893 |doi=10.1038/s41431-019-0466-6 |issn=1018-4813 |pmc=6871633 |pmid=31285530}} A study published on the National Library of Medicine website (2023) showed that Emiratis share genetic similarities with people from the Arabian Peninsula, West Mediterranean, and to a lesser extent populations of East Mediterranean, Levantine Arab, Iranian, and Sub-Saharan origins.{{Cite journal |last1=Al Yafei |first1=Zain |last2=Hajjej |first2=Abdelhafidh |last3=Alvares |first3=Marion |last4=Al Mahri |first4=Ayeda |last5=Nasr |first5=Amre |last6=Mirghani |first6=Rajaa |last7=Al Obaidli |first7=Ali |last8=Al Seiari |first8=Mohamed |last9=Mack |first9=Steven J. |last10=Askar |first10=Medhat |last11=Edinur |first11=Hisham A. |last12=Almawi |first12=Wassim Y. |last13=ElGhazali |first13=Gehad |date=2023-05-26 |title=Analysis of the Origin of Emiratis as Inferred from a Family Study Based on HLA-A, -C, -B, -DRB1, and -DQB1 Genes |journal=Genes |volume=14 |issue=6 |pages=1159 |doi=10.3390/genes14061159 |doi-access=free |issn=2073-4425 |pmid=37372339|pmc=10298278 }} Ancestry varies among tribes within the Emirati population, influenced by historical and demographic factors. Another study in Oxford University genetic analysis study (2022) reveals a mix of Middle Eastern, African, Central and South Asian ancestries, likely stemming from ancient migrations and recent gene flow. Tribal customs, including endogamy, have contributed to genetic differences, reflecting geographical factors and familial affiliations.Katherine S Elliott, Marc Haber, Hinda Daggag, George B Busby, Rizwan Sarwar, Derek Kennet, Michael Petraglia, Lawrence J Petherbridge, Parisa Yavari, Frauke U Heard-Bey, Bindu Shobi, Tariq Ghulam, Dalia Haj, Alia Al Tikriti, Alshafi Mohammad, Suma Antony, Maitha Alyileili, Shatha Alaydaroos, Evelyn Lau, Mark Butler, Arash Yavari, Julian C Knight, Houman Ashrafian, Maha T Barakat, Fine-Scale Genetic Structure in the United Arab Emirates Reflects Endogamous and Consanguineous Culture, Population History, and Geography, Molecular Biology and Evolution, Volume 39, Issue 3, March 2022, msac039, https://doi.org/10.1093/molbev/msac039 "Emiratis form a distinct cluster, located proximal to the European populations on PCs 1 and 2 but drawn toward Sub-Saharan African populations while a subset of the Emiratis appears drawn toward South Asians. We also note here that some individuals completely overlapped with Africans and Central Asians reflecting their recent origin from these populations.

"Population tree inferred using Treemix (Pickrell and Pritchard 2012) showed that all Emirates, together with Qatar, cluster on a branch and receive African gene flow, probably from diverse sources as it was previously suggested (Hellenthal et al. 2014; Almarri et al. 2021). We estimate using admixture-induced linkage disequilibrium that the African ancestry was already present in the Emirates around 1,000 years ago but its influx appears to have been a continuous process until very recent times consistent with our findings from the PCA. Similarly, Central Asian admixture can be detected starting 2,900 years ago and continued until more recent times."

"The Emiratis appear in these tests as significant source of ancestry to many Eurasian and East African populations suggesting an autochthonous component related to ancient Middle Easterners is retained in the genetic landscape. As targets of admixture, the Emirati populations have significant African ancestry as shown in our PCA, Treemix and ALDER results."

"We have investigated the genome-wide diversity of the Emirati population and found that both ancient and more recent demographic events have contributed to the genetic formation and structure of the population. Our admixture tests suggest that the population retains an autochthonous Middle Eastern ancestry supplemented with African and South Asian ancestries. The Emirati population captures admixture events that have occurred thousands of years ago, possibly related to movement of people in the Middle East after major cultural transitions such as the invention of agriculture or more recent movements related to climate change and desertification of the region in the past 6,000 years ago (Petraglia et al. 2020; Almarri et al. 2021). However, we found in our data set individuals who were genetically identical to present-day Africans or Central/South Asians, suggesting gene flow into the Emirates is still an ongoing process."

{{Main|Emirati diaspora}}Emirati ancestry, the result of emigration, also exists in other parts of the world, most notably in the Arabian Peninsula, Europe, and North America. Population estimates are seen to have a very small diaspora, mainly because the UAE provides them with more than adequate welfare benefits, removing the need to live and work in other developed countries.{{cite web |url=http://www.thenational.ae/thenationalconversation/comment/emiratisation-wont-work-if-people-dont-want-to-learn |title=Emiratisation won't work if people don't want to learn | the National |access-date=26 April 2016 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160426083228/http://www.thenational.ae/thenationalconversation/comment/emiratisation-wont-work-if-people-dont-want-to-learn |archive-date=26 April 2016 }}

{{Portal|United Arab Emirates}}

• List of Emiratis
• Emiratisation

{{Wiktionary|Emirian}}

{{Wiktionary|Trucial}}

{{Wiktionary|Trucial Coaster}}

{{Arab tribes in the United Arab Emirates}}

{{Demographics of the United Arab Emirates}}

{{United Arab Emirates topics}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Emirati People}}

Category:Arab people

Category:Ethnic groups in the Middle East