United Arab Emirates enjoys a strategic location in the Asian Continent. This location confers significant geographical, political and economic importance to UAE and its leading role.

UAE stretches between latitudes 22° and 26-5° North of the Equator, and longitudes 51° and 56-5°East Of Greenwich.

At the Southeastern part of the Arabian Peninsula, UAE shares borders with three countries out of the six Gulf Cooperative Council Countries (GCCC). It borders Saudi Arabia, Sultanate of Oman and Qatar State.

Six of the seven emirates of UAE, extend along the Arabian Gulf, with their seaports. These are Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Ras AL Khaimah emirates, while Fujairah is the only emirate, which overlooks the Gulf of Oman.

Area
The total area of the United Arab Emirates is about 77,700sq.kms. The area of sea territories and islands is equivalent to 5,900 sq.kms.

Population
According to the last national census of 1995, UAE population stood at 2,373,354 persons. The estimated number of total population in 1999 was 2,938,000 persons.

Climate
The climate tends to be mild and cool during winter season, which extends between November and April. Rain occasionally falls in all parts of the country. Summer time is hot and humid between May and September, with peaks between July and August.

Language

Arabic language is the official language in UAE. English is widely used besides Urdu, Hindi and other languages.

Religion

Islam is the official religion. Other religions also prevail, like Christianity. Non-Moslems freely practice their religious spiritual beliefs.