UAE Society Midterm Notes PDF

Introduction to Emirati Society Overview of the UAE The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is an Arab and Muslim country that embraced Islam following the teachings of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH). The region, historically known as Oman and Bahrain, saw the spread of Islam through messengers sent by the Prophe...

Introduction to Emirati Society Overview of the UAE The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is an Arab and Muslim country that embraced Islam following the teachings of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH). The region, historically known as Oman and Bahrain, saw the spread of Islam through messengers sent by the Prophet. Historical Context Arab traders and maritime businessmen attracted global interest, especially after the Ottoman Empire's dominance led to the abolition of land routes between Europe and India. Europeans sought alternative shipping routes, turning to the Portuguese. Notable figures like Vasco Da Gama and General Bu Kirk committed atrocities against Arabs and Muslims, including the destruction of Khour Fakkan. The Portuguese controlled the Arabian Gulf for most of the 16th century, but their power waned due to local resistance and conflicts with other European nations. Their presence ended in 1766 when the British took over. Emergence of Local Powers The people of the Emirates resisted foreign control, driven by their love for their homeland. Key tribes in the resistance included Al Nahyan, Al Maktoum, and Al Qassimi. Resistance efforts were based in Ras Al-Khaimah, confronting British naval forces. In 1968, Britain announced its intention to end treaty relationships with the Emirates. Sheikh Zayed and the Union of Emirates In 1966, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al-Nahyan became the ruler of Abu Dhabi, advocating for the UAE's independence. His leadership inspired other Arab nations seeking freedom. In 1968, Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum discussed the potential for a union, inviting other emirates, including Qatar and Bahrain, to join. However, by mid-1971, disagreements prevented the formation of a union among nine emirates. Bahrain and Qatar gained independence in August and September 1971, respectively. On December 2, 1971, six Gulf emirates united to form the UAE, with Ras Al-Khaimah joining in early 1972. Challenges to the Nonagon Union Ambiguity regarding the union's structure, as each emirate had its own ruler. Independence of Bahrain and Qatar hindered the union's formation. First President of the UAE In 1971, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was elected as the first president of the UAE, with Sheikh Rashid bin Said Al Maktoum as Prime Minister. Sheikh Zayed passed away in 2004, and his son, Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, succeeded him as ruler of Abu Dhabi. UAE Government Structure Type: Federation with powers divided between the federal government and individual emirates. Independence: December 2, 1971. Provisional Constitution: Established on December 2, 1971. Branches: ○ Executive: 7-member Supreme Council of Rulers elects the president and vice president. ○ Legislative: 40-member Federal National Council (consultative only). Geography of the UAE The geography of the UAE plays a crucial role in its economic and political decisions. Its strategic location enhances its appeal for business and international partnerships. The Seven Emirates 1. Abu Dhabi: ○ Ruler: His Highness Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan ○ Capital of the UAE, covering 86.77% of its area. ○ Named for the many antelopes in the region. ○ Known for federal institutions and embassies. 2. Dubai: ○ Ruler: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashed Al Maktoum ○ Formerly known as Al Wasl. ○ Capital of Islamic Finance, home to Dubai Islamic Bank. 3. Sharjah: ○ Ruler: His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Alqassimi ○ Named Al Shariqa due to its eastern location.  ○ Capital of Islamic culture, known for architecture and culture. 4. Ajman: ○ Ruler: His Highness Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashed Alnuaimi ○ Smallest emirate. ○ Named after the AlAjmani family. ○ Known for culture and real estate projects. 5. Umm al-Quwain: ○ Ruler: His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Rashed Al Mualla ○ Named for its historical military significance. ○ Known for museums and agriculture. 6. Ras Al-Khaimah: ○ Ruler: His Highness Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qassimi ○ Historically known as Jalfar. ○ Home to one of the largest medicine factories in the Arab region. ○ Known for manufacturing and fishing. 7. Fujairah: ○ Ruler: His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Mohammed Al Sharqi ○ Named for its natural springs and valleys. ○ Known for agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. UAE Culture Traditional Emirati attire includes the "Kandora" for men and the "abaya" for women, with colored abayas gaining popularity. Emiratis value social gatherings, with men and women often meeting separately in designated spaces. Coffee, known as "gahwa," is an important part of hospitality. A small pour indicates welcome, while a full cup suggests otherwise. At gatherings, Bukhoor and perfumes are offered to guests, reflecting the Emirati appreciation for pleasant scents, especially during weddings. The Late Presidents of the UAE Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Sheikh Zayed ruled from December 2nd, 1971, until November 2004 and is recognized as the founding father of the UAE. He was the ruler of Abu Dhabi since 1966 and was known for his deep care for his people and humanity. Sheikh Zayed & Healthcare  Founded the Sultan Foundation in 1996, contributing millions of dirhams to international healthcare. Established the Cleveland Hospital in Abu Dhabi, inspired by a family member's treatment in the U.S. Opened the first medical college at UAE University in May 1984. Invited Christian doctors to set up the first health center in Al Ain in 1960. Sheikh Zayed & Social Welfare Engage with the community to understand their needs and improve living standards. Empowered women in the UAE. Utilized oil revenues to enhance the economic and social conditions of Emiratis. Sheikh Zayed & Education Improved education access, making it free for all, as he believed it was a human right. Sponsored students and opened UAE University in Al Ain. Encouraged female education by building schools for girls and setting an example with his family. Sheikh Zayed & the Environment Practiced water conservation by performing ablution near trees. Saved the Arabian Oryx from extinction through a breeding program on Sir Bani Yas. Planted over 140 million trees in Abu Dhabi to promote agriculture. Revised water ownership rights for equitable access and minimized water waste. Founded a falcon hospital to protect falcons and initiated local conservation efforts. Developed projects to stabilize soil and protect cities from sandstorms. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Sheikh Khalifa served as the second president of the UAE from 2004 to 2022. Sheikh Khalifa & Healthcare Launched seven major healthcare projects costing over one billion dirhams, enhancing health services nationwide. Focused on improving the medical sector's readiness for epidemics and health risks. Contributed to cancer research through a facility at King Hussain Center in Jordan. Promoted the use of medical robotics technology in major surgeries. Sheikh Khalifa & Social Welfare Set a low interest rate of 0.5% for citizens' construction loans, with the government covering the balance. Implemented various policies for family welfare, rights of the child, and people of determination. Promoted women's rights and equality, including equal pay legislation introduced in 2022. Conducted tours to assess the needs of northern emirates and initiated housing projects. Sheikh Khalifa & the Environment Supported sustainable energy initiatives like Masdar City and Noor Abu Dhabi. Encouraged environmental sustainability through programs for falcons and marine protection. Strategize for the Barakah Nuclear power plant as part of the UAE's 2050 plan. Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Introduction Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan is recognized as the Founding Father of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). He served as the President from the formation of the Federation on December 2, 1971, until his death on November 2, 2004. Born in 1918 in Al Ain City, Abu Dhabi, he was the youngest son of Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, who ruled Abu Dhabi from 1922 to 1926. His early life was marked by hardships that shaped his character and leadership style. Early Life and Influences Sheikh Zayed grew up in a region where the economy relied heavily on fishing and pearl diving, with some agriculture on oasis islands. The poverty and underdevelopment he witnessed in his childhood deeply affected him, instilling a sense of responsibility towards alleviating the suffering of the less fortunate. His experiences during these formative years laid the groundwork for his future humanitarian efforts. His Vision Sheikh Zayed's leadership was characterized by a visionary outlook that significantly influenced the UAE's development. His commitment to tolerance and humanitarianism became foundational principles of the UAE's community and governmental institutions. Key points include:  Prioritization of humanity and social welfare. Initiated developmental planning in 1962 after the first crude oil export. Focused on unifying the seven Emirates, contrasting with other oil-rich nations' aggressive postures. Empowered women and promoted family values within the UAE. Unique Attributes Sheikh Zayed was distinguished by his exceptional values and modernization efforts across various sectors, including: Healthcare improvements. Advancements in education. Promotion of unity among the Emirates to form a federation. His passion for Falconry, showcasing his multifaceted interests. His dedication to humanitarian causes stemmed from witnessing the effects of poverty and resource scarcity in his youth, leading to a lifelong commitment to selfless service. UAE After His Passing After Sheikh Zayed's death on November 2, 2004, his eldest son, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, became the President of the UAE and the leader of Abu Dhabi. Sheikh Zayed's passing was a moment of national and global mourning, as he was a transformative figure known for his non-violent approach and humanitarian efforts. His legacy continues to influence the UAE and is remembered for: Transforming the lives of millions through his initiatives. Establishing a foundation of respect and appreciation for his contributions. Social Systems in the Traditional Emirati Society Bedouin Society has played a crucial role in shaping the social and cultural landscape of the UAE. It had a significant influence in shaping nature and determining the character of social, cultural and the community of UAE. The Desert Environment The location of a tribe influences the crafts and lifestyle adopted by families. Nomadism is declining due to advancements in society and government support for housing and relocation. Classification of Emirates Bedouins:  Nomads: Constantly on the move, represented by Alawamr and Manasir. Semi-nomadic Bedouins: Alternate between nomadic and settled life, often near oases, represented by Bani Qatab, Bani Yas, and Al Qawasim. Nomadic Bedouin Quarterly: Move between mountains in summer and plains in winter, represented by Al-Shuhouh in RAK and Dibba. Bedouins are known for their traits of courage, freedom, generosity, honesty, and religious devotion, all shaped by their desert environment. The desert's generosity is reflected in their music, songs, and dances, which celebrate themes of victory and bravery. The Marine Environment The marine environment has significantly influenced trade in the UAE, leading to an increase in the number and size of ships. This environment has shaped local crafts and activities. Traditional Maritime Activities: Pearl Diving: A historical source of income and cultural development with divers venturing into the waters to harvest pearls. This activity was a significant source of income and played a crucial role in the cultural and economic development of the region. Fishing: Essential for sustenance and trade, utilizing traditional methods. Local communities have relied on fishing as a means of sustenance and trade, utilizing traditional fishing methods adapted to the coastal environment. Boat Building: Crafting traditional dhows (boats) for fishing and transportation. Skilled artisans construct these wooden vessels, well-suited for navigating the coastal waters and engaging in activities like fishing and transportation. Professional Organization in Diving: General Financiers: Supported diving crews and their families and prepared fishing fleet General Employees: Included various roles on diving ships usually 10-25 men, such as: ○ Captains (Nokhatha): Masters of vessels that are familiar with trade secrets and areas to dive for pearls. ○ Divers: Searched for shells at sea depths. ○ Alciob: Assisted divers by hoisting them from the sea. ○ Undergarment (Al-Tiban): Young boys learning the craft and assisting on ships, they also helped in preparing and serving foods. How did the diving seasons affect the community? Provide housing and life support to the divers. Promoted trade after diving season.  Word of Honor was practiced and created a sense of dependency on each other. Obey and respect the head of the family. Interdependence and cooperation between various members of the society during good and bad times. Diving had a significant demand on the UAE Society. Pearl Trading: Found in Dubai, Bombay and Bahrain. These trades depended on the size of pearls and classes and technical capacity of traders; supply and demand also played a crucial role. The Barter System: Was their original way of trading. A few families would leave the nomadic desert lifestyle and settle on the coast to fish. Pearl divers made three main journeys between the 5th and the 9th month each year Social Life in UAE Before the Union The tribal system facilitated the life of pearl divers, allowing them to travel for work while maintaining family ties. The extended family structure provided support during good and bad times. The married and unmarried living in the same house, run by one of the parents who gave advice and in return was obeyed. Community Practices Ramadan: Streets near mosques are filled with shared meals. Eid Festivals: Celebrated with community participation and decoration. Weddings: Joyful occasions marked by community support by gifting food and ornaments. Pre-Oil Social Services UAE society was characterized by tribal ties and marriage relationships, with social services provided based on family ties and community needs. Types of Social Services Optional Social Services: Those who had a shipwreck, emergency, death, theft, etc., were eligible for these services. The tribe would provide assistance to affected households. It is frequently linked to the level of family ties. Every member contributes to the tribe's political or social issues as best they can, such as when the leader gets into a conflict with another tribe or when his son wants to get married. Obliged Social Services:  The leader of the tribe enforces it as a required duty for a variety of social services. It is known as "Al Taraz" and is gathered from those involved in commercial activity (pearl trade, etc.). Defense and protection, as well as compensation for individuals who work in mosques or are unable to work, would be funded with this money. Voluntary & Humanitarian Services: The UAE's large home owners would host both private and public parties, and they would lend money to one another to launch their businesses. They assist a divorced woman who was treated unfairly in caring for her kids. To protect her family, they also take her dowry from her spouse. Motivated individuals engage in voluntary labor without expecting payment or benefits. Islamic principles serve as the foundation for this activity, which is supported by a social solidarity framework (such as zakat workers, water-carrying spring workers, home-building workers, etc). Volunteers also assist women, children, the elderly, and orphans, who then advance into state institutions. Health Services Before the Union Health services were limited, relying on traditional herbal medicine and old medical practices, this included myrrh, frankincense, stinging with fire, and cupping. There were also religious families who would read the Quran and some prayers on children who were thin and women who failed to nurse her child. This resulted in high mortality rates, especially among children. Characteristics of Social Welfare Social welfare maintained cohesion and responsibility among the wealthy, with no specialized professionals or written policies guiding the programs; It had an effect on maintaining social cohesion in the society. It is a moral duty to provide service without discrimination. Social solidarity with the tribe Arts and Culture in UAE Society Popular arts included music, singing, dancing, fine arts, and literature, reflecting the lives of Bedouins and maritime communities. Alongside fine arts, applied arts, such as construction of ships and architecture, knitting of nets with literature of poetry, stories, and proverbs. Cultural Principles Non-Material Culture: Religion, language, customs, and values. Material Culture: Buildings, clothing, and transportation means. Social Systems in the Modern Emirati Society The modern Emirati social system began with the union of the Emirates and the discovery of oil, leading to significant changes in society. Manifestations of Change Emergence of large cities. Mass migration of some gulf, Arab, and Islamic, and some foreign countries, thus making non-Arab communities in the UAE. Development of commercial markets. Increased participation of women in the workforce. Expansion of educational institutions. Improved living standards and income levels. Social Development After Federation The UAE adopted a welfare state model, with the social affair sector being one of the key developed departments. It focuses on the needs of society in income, education, health, food, and housing. Health Services Development In 1996, Dubai and Abu Dhabi were recognized as top health cities in the Middle East by the WHO. Significant reduction in infant mortality rates and eradicated polio completely. Advanced surgical operations available in hospitals. High doctor-to-bed ratio (1.8 doctors per bed) and 40 government health facilities. Housing Services Housing standards have improved significantly, with modern amenities contributing to a higher quality of life. All houses have refrigerators, microwaves, water, electricity, radio, fax, computers, play stations for the kids; this contributes to leisure time and gives them time to practice like completing their post graduate degrees. Happiness in the UAE In 2016, the satisfaction of people in the UAE in terms of government services reached 64% on the American Customer Satisfaction, which was the lowest when compared to other sectors in the country; so the UAE government has prioritized happiness, appointing a Minister of State for Happiness to enhance societal joy and satisfaction in February 2016. UAE made plans, programs, and policies aimed to achieve a joyful and happy society. The UAE is dedicated to training government officials and federal entities on the significance of happiness, and it has implemented happiness committees in various government entities. The UAE established the National Program for Happiness and Wellbeing which aims to create policies that increase employees satisfaction and happiness, promote wellbeing and healthy lifestyles, and develop benchmarks to measure overall happiness nationally. The United Arab Emirates maintained its first place among the Arab countries for the sixth consecutive year, according to the World Happiness Report 2020. The UAE has consistently ranked high in happiness indices, with Abu Dhabi and Dubai recognized as the happiest cities in the Arab region. Impact of Happiness Initiatives Improved family quality of life. Enhanced employee well-being through flexible hours. Better customer experiences in government sectors. Streamlined services with online options. Prioritization of elderly individuals in queues.