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Dubai can
either refer to one of the seven emirates in the United Arab
Emirates (UAE), or that emirate's main city, sometimes called "Dubai
City" to distinguish it from the emirate.
The modern emirate of Dubai was created consequent with the
formation of the United Arab Emirates in 1971. However, written
accounts documenting the existence of the city have existed at least
150 years prior to the formation of the UAE. Dubai shares
legal, political, military and economic functions with the other
emirates within a federal framework, although each emirate has
jurisdiction over some functions such as civic law enforcement and
provision and upkeep of local facilities. Dubai has the largest
population and is the second largest emirate by area, after Abu
Dhabi. |
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Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the only two emirates to possess veto
power over critical matters of national importance in the country's
legislature. Dubai has been ruled by the Al Maktoum dynasty since 1833.
The emirates' current ruler, Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is also the
Prime Minister and Vice President of the UAE.
A majority of the emirate's revenues are from trade, manufacturing and
financial services. Revenues from petroleum and natural gas contribute
less than 6% (2006) of Dubai's US$ 37 billion economy (2005).
Dubai has attracted world-wide attention through innovative real estate
projects and sports events. This increased attention, coinciding with
its emergence as a world business hub, has also highlighted human rights
issues concerning its largely foreign workforce. |
