Wednesday, April 18, 2012

What do you know about the UAE?


I have to admit my knowledge about the United Arab Emirates was limited to documentaries about the construction of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and the man-made archipelagos, the Palm Islands.  During the last twelve weeks, I have learned quite a bit more about the history, culture, traditions, and the people of the UAE.

Geographically, the country borders the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf.  It is located between Oman and Saudi Arabia.  (The size of the country is comparable to the state of Maine in the U.S.)  There are seven emirates in the UAE - Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Al Fujayrah, Sharjah, Dubai, Ra's al Khaymah, and Quwayn.  Abu Dhabi is the capital.


 (The UAE is marked with the dot on the map above.)


I think one of the more interesting facts is that the country is a “melting pot” of nationalities.  The Emirati comprise only 15-24% of the population.  The remainder of the population consists of expats from India, Pakistan, Iran, other Middle Eastern countries, Latin America, Great Britain, and the US.

In less then 24 hours, I will be on my way to meet and work with our clients and their customers.  I am looking forward to meeting everyone and learning more from them as we work together during the next month.

 #ibmcsc uae

4 comments:

  1. Wow! Sounds like you are embarking on a great adventure! I looking forward to hearing all about it. Bon Voyage!

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  2. Thanks, Megan. I appreciate it.

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  3. It is either a melting pot, or the beginning of a caste system. I'd be interested to hear which you think it is.

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    1. I have seen a melting pot for certain this past week!

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