Arabic is the official language but English, Persian, Hindi, and Urdu are also spoken.
The currency of the UAE is the dirham. In the past, the economy relied on trading, fishing and pearling. Since 1958, it has been largely dependent on oil and gas extraction, which together make up about 48% of its gross domestic product (GDP). Oil revenues supply over 90% of public sector revenues and account for over 80% of export earnings. Abu Dhabi has the largest reserves within the UAE and the greatest petroleum production. Dubai has a large reexport trade and boasts one of the world's largest and most modern dry docks. Oil has led to rapid building of infrastructure and to development of health and education services.
UAE's major trade partners are Japan, the United States, and Western European countries. Its major imports are consumer goods, machinery and transport equipment. Per capita GDP was estimated atUS$21,100 in 2001.
Political Background
Prior to the 1960s, individual emirates lacked formal institutions of government. The British resident agent took care of foreign and defense affairs and intervened in internal tribal matters only to mediate. It was only in the 1970s that a formal governmental structure was established.
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