Expatriates in the United Arab Emirates

There are a considerable number of expatriates in the United Arab Emirates, with most residing in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.[1] A number of expats settled in the country prior to independence.[2][3]

Background

The United Arab Emirates requires the services provided by immigrants from all over the world, mainly because a large number of UAE locals consider many private sector jobs to be below them.[4][5] The country's relatively liberal society compared to some of its neighbours has attracted many global expatriates, including people from western nations.[6] This is one of the reasons why Emirati locals are outnumbered in their own country at a ratio of 9 to 1. Under Article 8 of UAE Federal Law no. 17, an expatriate can apply for UAE citizenship after residing in the country for 20 years, providing that person has never been convicted of a crime and can speak fluent Arabic.[7] The other way is through marriage, child adoption or influence. However, these days citizenship is not given that easily, with many people living in the country as stateless person (see Bidoon). The issue is also present in other Arab States of the Persian Gulf.

Arab League populations

Algerians

There are an estimated 15,000 Algerians living in the UAE.[8] They form one of the largest communities of non-citizens from the Arab world in the UAE. Most Algerians are based in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi.

Bahrainis

A small but unknown number of Bahrani people are present in the UAE.[9] Bahrain is also a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and this membership enables Bahraini nationals to enter the UAE without restrictions.

Comorians

Many members of the UAE's 10,000-strong stateless Bedoon community have obtained Comoros Island passports, providing them a legal status and a pathway towards naturalised UAE citizenship.[10][11] This move came following the Comorian legislature's decision on selling Comorian nationalities to stateless Bedoons in the Gulf countries (including UAE), in return for these Gulf countries' economic investment in Comoros.[12] The number of such Bedoons with Comorian passports in the UAE is estimated to be at least a thousand.[13]

Egyptians

There are an estimated 300,000 Egyptians living in the UAE[14] and form the largest community of non-citizens from the Arab world in the UAE.

Iraqis

Iraqis in the UAE have a population exceeding 100,000[15] and form one of the largest community of non-citizens from the Arab world in the UAE. Most Iraqis are recent immigrants who have fled instability back home; while Syria, Jordan, Iran and Lebanon were ultimate destinations for most refugees, a large influx sought the United Arab Emirates. In addition, an increasing number of Iraqi students seeking education and career opportunities opted for the country in light of its relatively reputable institutions across the Middle East.

Jordanians

As of 2009, their population was estimated at 250,000,[16] an increase from 80,000 in 2003,[17] making them one of the largest Jordanian diaspora communities both worldwide and in the Persian Gulf region and also form the second largest community of non-citizens from the Arab world in the UAE after the Egyptians. The UAE remains a popular touring destination for many Jordanians.

Kuwaitis

A small community of Kuwaitis lives in the UAE.[18] It includes around 1,000 Kuwaiti students studying in eight universities across the UAE.[19][20][21] Kuwait is also a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and this membership enables Kuwait nationals to live and work in the UAE without restrictions.

Lebanese

There are an estimated 80,000[22] Lebanese living in the UAE and form one of the largest community of non-citizens from the Arab world in the UAE, mostly living in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. The UAE remains a popular touring destination for many Lebanese. The majority of Lebanese expatriates that work in the UAE are highly educated, fluent in both French and English languages, and affluent as well as being involved in business and the media as beauty surgeons, businessmen, artists, presenters and news anchors.

There are over fifteen thousand (15,000) Lebanese companies operating in the Jebel Ali Free Zone alone, an economic hub located in Jebel Ali, a city in Dubai. Whereas, certain names glitter as Lebanese iconic success in UAE such as, but not limited to, the Late Antoine Choueiri the owner of the Middle East’s largest media broker (Choueiri Group) that controls Arabian Media Services International, MEMS, Arabian Outdoor, Times International, Audio Visual Media, C Media, Press Media, Digital Media Services, Interadio, Promofair, AMC and SECOMM, Elias Bou Saab the Founder of the American University in Dubai (AUD), Pierre Choueiri Choueiri Group's heir, Elie Khouri the Media mogul who runs his advertising empire from the UAE. Ralph R. Debbas: W Motors's car company owner, Rima Maktabi Al Arabiya news presenter and former presenter of Inside the Middle East on CNN International and Joe Hawa the CNBC Arabiya's presenter and Financial Analyst reporter.

Libyans

There are an estimated 2,000 Libyans living in the UAE. They form one of the smaller communities of non-citizens from the Arab world in the UAE. Currently many Libyans who have lived in exile in UAE for decade decided to return to Libya after the fall of the former Libyan regime.[23]

Mauritanians

Around 5,000 Mauritanians are residing and working in the UAE.[1][24][25]

Moroccans

There are an estimated 7,000 Moroccans living in the UAE. They form one of the smallest communities of non-citizens from the Arab world in the UAE. In recent times, it has become more difficult for Moroccans to come to UAE, especially for Moroccan women.[26]

Omanis

Omanis consist of expatriates and residents in the United Arab Emirates who hail from Oman. Being a bordering country and sharing cultural links, there are thousands of Omanis who live in the U.A.E. They are predominantly Arabs and belong to the Muslim Ibadi sect.

Omanis make a large percentage of the UAE's office corps and also dominate the police forces.[27] Many are originally students pursuing higher education in various institutions across the country. In 2003, their number was estimated at over 9,000.[28] According to the Times of Oman, the United Arab Emirates is the most popular destination for Omani students who choose to study abroad; its close location and sharing of the language and culture makes them more comfortable at places like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and the border town of Al Ain.[29]

Both countries have signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at providing benefits to Omani nationals and citizens in the UAE as well as treating Omani labour and work force at par with the country's nationals.[30] Being a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) (like the UAE) enables Omani nationals to move and work freely within the country and enjoy contrasting residential benefits as compared to expatriates in the UAE from non-GCC states.

In 2003, Omanis in the UAE were allowed to vote for council members in the elections of the Omani Majlis al-Shura. It was the first-ever overseas suffrage in Oman's history.[28]

Palestinians

There are an estimated 100,000[31] Palestinians living in the UAE and form one of the largest community of non-citizens from the Arab world in the UAE.

Qataris

Some Qatari citizens are based in the UAE. Qatar, like the UAE, is a member of the GCC and thus citizens of both countries are free to live and work in each other's countries without restrictions.[32][33][34]

Saudis

A total of 4,895 Saudis were living in the UAE in 2007;[35] this number grew when a further 700 entered at the start of 2008.

They are mostly found working in the sectors of commerce and industry as well as medicine, law, insurance and shipping. Both the UAE and Saudi Arabia are Arab states and part of the Gulf Cooperation Council; according to agreements, the citizens of each GCC member can live and work in any of the six countries without visa and other restrictions. The Saudis own a total of 1,357 houses and 1,450 pieces of land in various emirates in the UAE.

Somalis

There are around 50,000 Somalis in the United Arab Emirates. The Somali Business Council based in Dubai regulates 175 Somali companies.[36] Somali-owned businesses line the streets of Deira, the Dubai city centre,[37] with only Iranians exporting more products from the city at large.[38] Internet cafés, hotels, coffee shops, restaurants and import-export businesses are all testimony to the Somalis' entrepreneurial spirit. Star African Air is also one of three Somali-owned airlines which are based in Dubai.[37]

Sudanese

75,000 Sudanese live in the UAE.[1] Most of them are based mainly in Dubai, with smaller populations in other emirates.[39]

Syrians

A large number of Syrians live in the UAE.[40] Their population is over 242,000.[41]

Tunisians

A small but unknown number of Tunisians live in the UAE.[42][43][44] There is a Tunisian Business Council based in Abu Dhabi.[45] There is also a web radio operated by the Tunisian community, known as 3ASLEMA Dubai.[46]

Yemenis

Over 90,000 Yemeni expatriates lives in the UAE.[47] Yemen is not yet part of the GCC, but when it does become a part of it, it's citizens will get the opportunity to enter the UAE without restrictions.[48]

South Asian populations

Bangladeshis

There are over 600,000 Bangladeshis in the UAE.[49] Expatriates from Bangladesh in the United Arab Emirates form one of the largest communities along with others hailing from the Indian subcontinent. They are spread out over the various emirates of the country, with many based in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. A sizeable number of the South Asian labour force in the UAE is from Bangladesh. In the fiscal year 2005-2006, remittances from Bangladeshis were marked up to US$512.6M.[50]

There are a number of Bangladeshi-curriculum schools in the UAE, including the Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Bangladesh Islamia School in Abu Dhabi.

Bhutanese

Most Bhutanese nationals in the UAE are labour force and service industry workers. Employ Bhutan Overseas is a Bhutanese government-authorized employment agency which sends Bhutanese workers to the UAE.[51]

Indians

Numerically, Indians form the largest community of expatriates residing in the UAE.

Nepalese

Nepalese in the United Arab Emirates are a large community numbering around 125,258; of these, 75,000 are in Dubai, some 30,000 in Abu Dhabi and the remaining are spread out over the northern emirates. Out of the population, half are labour migrants working in the construction sector while others work in hospitality and security services (as security guards); Nepalese security guards are popular in the UAE for their trustworthiness.[52] There are also some skilled professionals.

As part of curbing illegal migration, the UAE made new amendments to visit visa regulations in 2008. According to experts, the changes were likely to affect Nepalese the most, along with Indians and Pakistanis.[53]

Pakistanis

Sri Lankans

Sri Lankans in the United Arab Emirates have grown to a population of over 300,000;[54][55] they mostly form the country's large foreign labour force. In 2009, community members were urged to register themselves. A lack of community data has often resulted in difficulties in reaching out to the community at the time of major announcements, rules and regulation.[55] Most expatriates from Sri Lanka, along with other immigrants from the Indian subcontinent, tend to be found in Dubai, although sizeable communities are existent in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Al-Ain and Ras al-Khaimah.

Other populations

Afghans

There are about 300,000 Afghans in the United Arab Emirates.[56]

There is an Afghan Business Council of Dubai, which was formed in 2005 by expatriate Afghan businessmen, traders and entrepreneurs residing in the UAE. One of the organisations' purposes is to develop economic, cultural and social relations between Afghanistan and the UAE as well as to promote the interests of the Afghan business community of Dubai.[57]

The Afghan community in the UAE forms the second largest diaspora of Afghans after the United States.

Albanians

Around 200 to 300 Albanians reside in the UAE.[1]

Americans

Americans in the United Arab Emirates form one of the largest Western expatriate communities in the UAE. Over 50,000 United States nationals reside in the UAE.[1] The bulk of these live in Dubai while sizable populations are also found in Abu Dhabi. According to statistics produced in 1999, there were 7,500 United States citizens in Abu Dhabi and as many as 9,000 United States citizens in Dubai.[58]

Angolans

Around 100 Angolans reside in the UAE.[1]

Argentines

Argentines in the United Arab Emirates are 2,000 and form the third largest community of Argentines in the Middle East (after Lebanon and Israel) and are mainly expatriates (bankers, pilots, stewards and technicians working with the two main airlines in the country) and professional footballers playing in the UAE Football League. Even the legendary Argentine player Diego Maradona[59] was an expat for a while in UAE.

Azerbaijanis

Azerbaijanis in United Arab Emirates number around 12,000.[60] The Azerbaijanis live mostly in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.

Armenians

Armenians in United Arab Emirates number around 3,000.[61]

Australians

Australians in the United Arab Emirates consist of 7,000 expatriates, half of whom live in the capital of Abu Dhabi (3,500) and the other half of whom live in Dubai.[62]

Australians have been attracted by the lifestyle Dubai offers, including the wealth of outdoor activities for their families.[63] However, their population fell in 2009 due to the downturn in the economy of Dubai, as retrenched Australian expatriates with underwater real-estate loans fled the country to avoid debtor's prison.[64]

In Dubai, Australian and New Zealander expatriates joined together to set up the Australia New Zealand Association, which aims to provide mutual support for their communities in the entire UAE.[65]

The Australian International School in Sharjah is an established international school, catering to much of the Australian community. The school's education system and syllabus is Queensland-curriculum based.[66]

Austrians

The UAE is home to 1,800 Austrians. There are 36 Austrian companies operating directly in the UAE.[67]

Belarusians

Around 2,500 Belarusians reside in the UAE.[1]

Belgians

3,000 Belgians reside in the UAE.[1]

Bosnians

A community of Bosnian expatriates lives in the UAE, numbering from 1,000 to 2,000.[1] In 2014, the Bosnian community of Dubai provided humanitarian aid to affectees of floods in Bosnia and also in Serbia.[68]

Brazilians

Brazilians in the United Arab Emirates are the second largest community of Brazilians in the Middle East (after Lebanon) and are mainly expatriates and professional footballers. In 2002, up to 235 Brazilians were reported to be living in the country (Abu Dhabi and Dubai.[69] These figures increased ten-fold, with data disclosed by the embassy of Brazil in Abu Dhabi putting the number as high as 2,000 by 2010.[70] Most immigrants are pilots, stewards and technicians working with the two main airlines in the country, Emirates and Etihad; in the Emirates airline alone, there are over 100 Brazilian pilots and 600 stewards.[70] Brazil also has a large business presence in the UAE, with representative offices established for several construction companies, exporters and banks. Footballers from Brazil top the list of foreigners playing in the UAE Football League.[71] The UAE remains a popular touring destination for many Brazilians and there are air links between both countries.[72]

British

British presence in the country dates back to the 19th century, when the region was a protectorate. In 2012, there were an estimated 240,000 Britons living in the country, representing the largest western community in the United Arab Emirates[73] and are made up primarily of English and Scottish expatriates. Prior to 2008, there were 120,000 Brits in the UAE. However, after the 2008 UK recession another 120,000 Brits emigrated to the UAE to find work. This doubled the number of Brits to 240,000 within a period of just four years. Most Britons took their entire families with them. Main localities where British nationals are based include Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. A number of Britons working in the UAE are high-salary white-collar job professionals. Probationary work permits are valid for up to three months for Britons.[74] In the 2010 UK general elections, following a drop in sterling, UAE-based British expats were seen taking advantage by sending increased funds back home to the UK, with the number of dirham trades flowing back to the UK rising by over 40 percent in two days.[75]

Bulgarians

There are 7,000[76][77] people from Bulgaria making it the largest population of Bulgarian people in the Arab World, mostly living in Dubai.[78][79]

Canadians

There are 40,000 Canadians in the United Arab Emirates as of 2014.[80][81] There is a Canadian Club in Dubai.[82]

Caribbeans

The Caribbean community in UAE numbers around 2,000 as of 2014,[83] which is an increase since 2006 when it barely numbered 100. The majority of them are Jamaicans, and a few dozen Jamaican pilots are presently working for the Emirates airline.[84][85]

Chadians

200 Chadian nationals reside in the UAE.[1]

Chileans

There are around 270 Chileans in the UAE.[1]

Chinese

Croatians

Over 500 Croatians are currently living in the UAE, primarily in Dubai. The community is growing. Migration occurred in two waves, with the first wave taking place 15 years ago and the latest and larger wave comprising recent migrants. Croatians can be found working as cooks, stewards, waiters and in white-collar positions.[86]

Cubans

A small Cuban community is present in Dubai. The population has increased over the years.[87][88] Cuban cigars are popular in the UAE.[89][90] Cuban food and salsa clubs are available in the UAE.[91]

Cypriots

There are up to 1,000 Cypriots in the UAE. They are mainly involved in the construction and trading industry. Others are working as pilots and aeronautical engineers with local airlines.[92]

Czechs

Around 1,500 Czechs reside in the UAE.[1]

Danes

As of 2010, their number was around 2,000, up from just 400 since 2005.[93] The Danish community of Dubai has founded a cultural organisation known as Danes in Dubai, which aims at fostering relations between Denmark and the UAE.[94]

Dominicans

Around 2,000 to 3,000 Dominicans reside in the UAE.[1]

Dutch

Currently there is a growing population of Dutch nationals. As of 2011 members of the community number at 4500.[95]

Eritreans

There were 3,000 to 4,000 Eritreans in the UAE as of 2010. 60% of them were women working as baby-sitters.[96]

Ethiopians

There are an estimated 100,000 Ethiopian nationals living in the UAE.[97] A large number of them are domestic workers, housemaids or involved in labour.[98][99]

Fijians

A small Fijian community numbering in the hundreds exists in the UAE, based in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and other places.[100][101] They include both native Fijians and Indo-Fijians. New job opportunities have prompted some Fijians to migrate to the UAE. Most Fijians in the UAE can be found working in retail, tourism and hospitality, as nurses,[102] pilots,[103] seafarers teachers, hotel workers, sportspeople and in other jobs.[104][105][106][107] The Fijian community in Abu Dhabi convenes celebrations for Fiji Day.[108]

Filipinos

There are an estimated 700,000 expatriates from the Philippines living in the UAE.[109]

Finns

Finns in the United Arab Emirates form a community of 900.[110]

French

There are over 10,000 expatriates from France living in the UAE.[111][112] There are numerous community organisations, schools, restaurants and academies throughout the country. According to various statistics, the French population of UAE has been growing at a rate of 5% each year.[113] France also has an industrial presence; there are close to 300 French enterprises and businesses in the UAE. Roughly half of these are located in Dubai.[113]

Ghanaians

A community of over 300 Ghanaian expatriates is present in the country. There are two main associations, the Ghana Community in Dubai and the Ghana Social Club in Abu Dhabi.[114] Ghana has a consulate-general in Dubai serving the community.[115][116][117][118]

Germans

Germans in the United Arab Emirates number 10,000,[119] found across major cities of the country.

There are currently three German schools in the UAE:

Greeks

There are over a 5,000 Greeks living in the UAE, most of whom are based in Dubai.[1][120][121] They are predominantly professionals in white-collar industry serving in various positions such as executives and businessmen.[120] Many of them have been living in the country for more than 20 years, while every year an increasing number of newcomers are setting up in the UAE.[121] In addition, there are more than 120 Greek companies of different sectors which are currently operating in the country.[121]

The Greek community is organised through social circles; there are two (informal) Greek schools, whose teachers are posted and managed by the Greek Ministry of Education.

The Greek Orthodox Church of the UAE is under the jurisdiction of the Antioch Patriarchate; the current bishop is the Metropolitan of Bagdad and Kuwait Constantine. There is a Greek Orthodox Church of St Nikolaos in Abu Dhabi. Prior to its construction, there existed no Greek church in the UAE and the community had to use other churches for their services.[122]

Hungarians

According to a Hungarian aviation official, "there is a sizeable Hungarian community already working in the UAE" and many Hungarians travel to Dubai for tourism.[123]

Indonesians

Iranians

Iranians in the UAE number 400,000[124] to half a million.

Irish

There are over 8,000 Irish expatriates in the UAE.[125][126][127] There is an Abu Dhabi Irish Society and a Dubai Irish Society.[128]

Israelis

The United Arab Emirates does not recognise Israel due to the Palestine conflict, and therefore Israeli passport-holders cannot legally enter the UAE. Restrictions were tightened against the entry of Israeli citizens following the assassination of Mahmoud Al-Mabhouh in Dubai which was blamed on Israeli intelligence.[129] However, there are Jewish expatriates in the UAE, and there are Israelis with dual citizenship who are able to live, visit and work in the UAE as citizens of other countries.[130] Some Israeli companies conduct business in the UAE indirectly through third parties.[130]

Italians

Japanese

There are almost 4,000 Japanese people who live in the UAE.[131] Over 2,000 of them are from Dubai, making the city home to the largest Japanese community in the whole of the Arab world.[132] Japan also maintains a sizeable trade presence in the UAE through representative offices of multinational corporations and organisations; as of 2007, there were an estimated 105 Japanese companies operating in the Jebel Ali Free Zone alone.[132]

According to registrations based with local embassies and consulates, the community has been growing at an average of 20 percent per year, much larger than the population during the 1980s when only a few hundred Japanese expatriates lived in the country.[133] The Japanese have introduced judo in the country. Most immigrants are principally skilled workers employed in white-collar business and industry sectors. Dubai has one Japanese association and there is also a Dubai Japanese School, which is based on Japanese curriculum. The Japanese School in Abu Dhabi also serves Japanese expatriates.

Kazakhs

Almost 2,000 Kazakhs lived in the UAE as of 2008, most of them businesspeople.[134] The Kazakhstan Society in UAE is an association of Kazakh expatriates based in the UAE.[135] As of 2015, the population was 5,000 to 6,000.[1]

Kenyans

Kenyans in the United Arab Emirates had an estimated population numbering 36,000 in 2010. Of these, many work in Dubai in the hospitality and construction industries.[136]

Koreans

There are approximately 3,100 Koreans in the United Arab Emirates.[137] The United Arab Emirates received a small contingent of Korean migrant workers in the late 1970s and early 1980s, but it was never a major destination[138] However, due to rapid growth since 2005, the country has come to have the Arab world's largest Korean population.[137] As of 2008, there were roughly 2,500 South Koreans living in Dubai alone, largely businessmen working at the 90 Korean companies which operated in the country.[139] There were also many flight attendants working for Emirates Airlines; the number of Koreans working for Emirates Airlines increased from 15 in 1998 to 620 as of 2007, mostly based out of Dubai. Dubai has the UAE's largest community of South Koreans.[140] However, a consulate was not opened in Dubai until March 2008.[141]

There are also believed to be roughly 1,300 North Korean workers in the UAE, primarily in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. They earn between US$300 and $500 per month, but have to make so-called "loyalty payments" of $150 to $250 to the North Korean government. This has sparked discontent among the workers; in response, the North Korean government has sent security agents to patrol North Korean work camps and keep an eye out for people making critical comments.[142]

Won Ho Chung is a famous Arabic language comedian of Korean origin who is based in Dubai.[143] In 2010, Chung was appointed goodwill ambassador for the Korea Tourism Organization in the Middle East.[144]

Kyrgyz

Up to 4,000 Kyrgyz expatriates were residing and working in the UAE as of 2012. There is a Kyrgyz Club in Dubai and the community celebrates events such as the Independence Day of Kyrgyzstan.[145][146]

Latvians

There are about 300 Latvians in the UAE. To serve the community, Latvia opened its embassy in Abu Dhabi in September 2014, its first diplomatic mission in the Persian Gulf region.[147]

Malaysians

There were 6,000 Malaysians living and working in the United Arab Emirates as of 2010. Most are found in Dubai and can be seen working with foreign and local companies.[148] In addition, there are a small number of Malaysian pilots serving the Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways.

Mexicans

There are approximately 3,000 Mexican citizens living and working in the UAE.[149]

Moldovans

This is a possible population of Moldovans in UAE, especially in Sharjah. Abu Dhabi and Dubai has a population of 22.000 Moldovans.

Macedonians

Macedonians make a sixth-largest Yugoslav and ex-Yugoslav (Balcanic) population in the UAE and in the whole Arab World.

Montenegrins

The Montenegrins make a seventh-largest Yugoslav and ex-Yugoslav (Balcanic) population in the UAE and in the whole Arab World.

New Zealanders

New Zealanders in the UAE number around 4,000,[150] the overwhelming majority of whom are based in Dubai. A number of entrepreneurs from New Zealand are attracted towards the work and business opportunities offered in the UAE.[151] In 2007, more than 700 New Zealanders moved to the UAE permanently or for long term.[152]

The New Zealand community is involved in numerous cultural events, get-togethers and organisations. In Dubai, expatriate New Zealanders joined Australians to form the Australia New Zealand Association, which aims to provide support to society members and expatriates over the entire country.

Nigerians

A Nigerian community is present in the UAE. There is an estimated 2000 to 5000 Nigerians living in that community.[153][154]

Norwegians

There are 1,500-2,000 Norwegians living in the UAE.[155]

Peruvians

Around 300 Peruvians live in the UAE.[1]

Polish

There are 2,000 people from Poland making it the largest population of Polish people in the Arab World.[156]

Romanians

There are 6,000 Romanians living in the UAE.[157] The majority of them are professionals, holding graduate or postgraduate qualifications.[158]

Russians

There is a sizable community of Russians in the UAE. They are expatriates who have moved into the country in attraction of good job opportunities and its contrasted all-year-round sunny weather conditions. According to various estimates, as many as 18,000 Russian expatriates and overall above 55,000 Russian speakers from CIS (former Soviet Republics) countries live throughout the country, with the majority having made Dubai and Northern Emirates their home.[159] The UAE is also a popular visiting destination, with above 1,000,000 tourists from Russia & CIS visiting the country each year.[159] There are a number of business and cultural groups and organizations dedicated within the community, such as Russian Business Council in Dubai and Northern Emirates, operating under the umbrella of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Russian Cultural Club in the American University of Sharjah; Russian Women Union “Rossiyanka” to name a few. The Dubai Russian Private School is a secondary school using a curriculum approved by the Russian Ministry of Education and is designed to cater to the Russian speaking community needs. After school activities and extra curricular classes are also available, e.g. dance lessons for adults and kids at "Dance For You" studio. There are also a number of Russian-language publications in the country: Russian Emirates magazine (dedicated to the luxury lifestyle and fashion), Business Emirates magazine (dedicate to the property, business and investments; the official publication of the Russian Business Council), as well as East Sprigs UAE Travel Guide book for Russian speaking tourists and visitors of the UAE, printed & published by the Russian Emirates Publishing House and actively promoted and circulated. There is a “Russian Radio – A Worldwide Network” broadcasting on 96.3FM all over the UAE. Dubai has often been described as a playground for Russian VIPs, where large portions of property are bought. Some locals insist that as much as half of the Palm Jumeirah, the first of the city's scheduled three man-made islands, which is already handed over, eventually owned by Russian speakers. In a playful reference to the extremely popular bi-monthly publication, the news agency Russia Today has unanimously referred to the UAE as the "Russian Emirates”.[159]

Samoans

A very few number of Samoans are present in the UAE. Most Samoans actively play rugby.[160] New Zealand-born Samoan rugby player Apollo Perelini has been based in the UAE for a couple of years, where he coaches at the Elite Sporting Academy in Repton School Dubai.[161]

Senegalese

The population of Senegalese people in the UAE is around 700 to 800.[1]

Serbs

There are 15,000 Serbs in the city of Dubai, which makes the city the 9th largest in the world in terms of the Serb population.[162]

Singaporeans

There is a small community of Singaporeans in UAE numbering around 2,100, the largest Singaporean community in the Middle East.[163] The community includes Singaporean Malays, Chinese Singaporeans and Indian Singaporeans. Dubai has three Singaporean expatriate clubs: the Singapore Business Council (SBC), Singapore Malay-Muslim Group (SMG) and the Singapore Women’s Group (SWG).[163] Many Singaporeans visit the UAE for tourism or transit through its airports.

Slovakians

Around 1,000 Slovakians reside in the UAE.[1]

Slovenians

There are between 100 and 150 Slovenians in the UAE.[1]

South Africans

South Sudanese

A South Sudanese community is present in the UAE. They are mainly Christians. They were treated as part of the Sudanese community; however, after South Sudan achieved independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudanese expatriates living in the UAE were required to apply for new South Sudanese passports.[164] The UAE airline flydubai operates several flights a week from Dubai to Juba.[165]

Spaniards

There are about 12,000 Spanish expatriates in the UAE. A Spanish Business Council has been formed by the expatriate community.[166] The majority of them live in Dubai, followed by Abu Dhabi.[167]

Swedes

Swedes in the United Arab Emirates number at over 3,000 with a growing population.[168]

Swiss

Around 2,430 Swiss nationals reside in the UAE.[1]

Taiwanese

Around 400 Taiwanese people reside in the UAE.[1]

Tajiks

Ethnic Tajiks living in the UAE hail from Tajikistan and Afghanistan. They celebrate cultural events including Nowruz.[169]

Thais

Thais in the United Arab Emirates are based predominantly in Abu Dhabi and Dubai; there are smaller populations also in the northern emirates. A significant number of Thais are workers providing labour for the construction sector. In 2006, there were some 3,500 Thai workers in Dubai alone. This figure jumped to 6,500 in 2007 and recent numbers are predicted to be as high as 8,000.[170] The UAE and Thailand have signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at protecting the rights of Thai workers living and working in the UAE.

Turks

Turks in the United Arab Emirates are Turkish citizens who live in the United Arab Emirates. In 2014, the population was said to be 10,000 and increasing.[171][172] [173]

Ugandans

A small number of Ugandans live in Dubai. There is a Ugandans in Dubai Association.[174][175]

Ukrainians

In 2006 the Ukrainian population was listed at 2,000.[176] More recently, the population grew to 5,000.[1]

Uzbeks

There are a small number of Uzbeks living and working in the UAE. They celebrate cultural events such as Nowruz.[169][177][178]

Venezuelans

There are 2,580 people living in the UAE that have Venezuelan roots.[179]

There are also a lot more Venezuelans who work in the Oil businessess, due to UAE-Venezuela relations (OPEC).

See also

References

  1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 http://www.bqdoha.com/2015/04/uae-population-by-nationality
  2. ↑ http://www.thenational.ae/news/uae-news/heritage/former-expat-donates-snapshot-of-uae-history-to-the-emirates
  3. ↑ http://www.thenational.ae/business/personal-finance/uae-expats-priced-out-of-their-lives
  4. ↑ http://www.thenational.ae/uae/heritage/top-chef-wants-more-emiratis-to-try-a-career-in-the-kitchen
  5. ↑ http://www.thenational.ae/thenationalconversation/comment/emiratisation-wont-work-if-people-dont-want-to-learn
  6. ↑ Yahoo
  7. ↑ Ilovetheuae | I Love The Uae
  8. ↑ UAE and Algeria mark 40 years of ties
  9. ↑ "Bahrainis in UAE safe" (PDF). Gulf Daily News. 13 March 2008. Retrieved 4 April 2015.
  10. ↑ http://www.thenational.ae/uae/heritage/bidoon-celebrate-uae-national-day-as-emiratis
  11. ↑ http://www.thenational.ae/news/uae-news/citizenship-hope-for-uaes-stateless
  12. ↑ http://america.aljazeera.com/articles/2014/11/10/kuwait-statelesscitizenshipcomoros.html
  13. ↑ http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/8abfc14a-a8aa-11e1-be59-00144feabdc0.html#axzz3WKh9eVbB
  14. ↑ Upbeat Egyptian expatriates vote in first free presidential elections |GulfNews.com
  15. ↑ BuzzFlash > World Media Watch > 1/21/05
  16. ↑ http://www.jordantimes.com/?news=14910
  17. ↑ http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=26140
  18. ↑ http://gulfnews.com/multimedia/framed/spotlight/proud-to-be-kuwaiti-1.1153002
  19. ↑ http://www.thenational.ae/news/uae-news/kuwait-in-shock-over-death-of-sharjah-student-beaten-by-friends
  20. ↑ http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-251959007.html
  21. ↑ http://www.kuna.net.kw/ArticleDetails.aspx?id=2224776&Language=en
  22. ↑ Lebanese Living in UAE Fear Deportation
  23. ↑ Libyans in UAE are already booking their tickets home
  24. ↑ https://wikileaks.org/gifiles/docs/31/3106505_mauritania-africa-uea-terminates-contracts-of-mauritanians.html
  25. ↑ McDougall, James; Scheele, Judith (2012). Saharan Frontiers: Space and Mobility in Northwest Africa. Indiana University Press. p. 178. ISBN 9780253001245. Retrieved 5 April 2015.
  26. ↑ Rules Tightened for Moroccan Women Coming to UAE
  27. ↑ J.E. Peterson. The Future of Federalism in the United Arab Emirates, pp. 18
  28. 1 2 Bibbo, Barbara (September 28, 2003). "Omanis in UAE allowed to vote in Shura council polls". Gulf News. Retrieved November 29, 2010.
  29. ↑ Kola, Aftab H. (October 4, 2010). "More Omanis opting to study overseas". Times of Oman. Retrieved November 29, 2010.
  30. ↑ "Omani workers to get same status as UAE nationals". Oman Economic Review. July 2006.
  31. ↑ Report: UAE to deport hundreds of Palestinians by month's end
  32. ↑ http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/qatar/qataris-in-the-uae-express-cautious-optimism-over-resolving-dispute-1.1305191
  33. ↑ http://www.khaleejtimes.com/kt-article-display-1.asp?xfile=data/community/2013/June/community_June43.xml&section=community
  34. ↑ http://gulfnews.com/news/uae/crime/qatari-cell-members-arrested-in-uae-1.1357928
  35. ↑ Nearly 5,000 Saudis are living in UAE - Arab News
  36. ↑ "Dubai's Somali diaspora hope for change". CCTV. 11 September 2012. Retrieved 4 February 2015.
  37. 1 2 "Somalis cash in on Dubai boom". BBC. Retrieved 29 January 2015.
  38. ↑ "Forget piracy, Somalia's whole 'global' economy is booming - to Kenya's benefit". TEA. Retrieved 29 January 2015.
  39. ↑ Sudanese expats cast votes in UAE
  40. ↑ http://www.thenational.ae/news/uae-news/syrians-in-dubai-look-to-rebuild-homeland
  41. ↑ UAE home to 242,000 Syrians
  42. ↑ https://www.wam.ae/en/news/emirates/1395278208262.html
  43. ↑ http://www.abudhabinews.net/index.php/sid/231255149
  44. ↑ http://tn.webradar.me/portal/2599846
  45. ↑ http://tbcauh.ae/en/info/Members_Benefits
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  48. ↑ http://www.arabianbusiness.com/yemen-join-gcc-by-2015-57086.html
  49. ↑ Bangladeshis Observe Martyrs’ Day - Khaleej Times
  50. ↑ Expatriate Bangladeshis in UAE remit more money home
  51. ↑ "Home". Employ Bhutan Overseas. Retrieved 6 April 2015.
  52. ↑ Abdul Kader, Binsal (2010-05-17), "Number of Nepalese in UAE steady", Gulf News, retrieved 2010-07-17
  53. ↑ New UAE visa rules likely to affect Indians, Pakistanis and Nepalese - ThaIndian
  54. ↑ Abdul Kade, Binsal. "Sri Lankan expats to get free IT and English language training". Gulfnews.con. Retrieved 8 February 2012.
  55. 1 2 "Sri Lankans in UAE asked to register themselves". Gulf News. 24 June 2009.
  56. ↑ Gulf News 30 November 2012
  57. ↑ Afghan Business Council, Dubai - Homepage
  58. ↑ Private American Citizens Residing Abroad
  59. ↑ MIDEAST - Maradona named as coach at Al-Wasl
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  61. ↑ (Armenian) Հայերը ԱՄԷ-ում. Retrieved July 7, 2012.
  62. ↑ Statistics - Numbers of Australians Overseas in 2001
  63. ↑ Gulfnews: InFocus Australia - Living it up in Dubai
  64. ↑ The Daily Telegraph: Debt-laden, jobless Aussies flee Dubai
  65. ↑ Gulfnews: Australian expatriates celebrate National Day
  66. ↑ Australian International School, Sharjah
  67. ↑ UAE urges Austria to change stance on euro visa-free travel | The National
  68. ↑ Serbian and Bosnian communities rally aid for flood victims |GulfNews.com
  69. ↑ Estimates of Brazilians living abroad by region (Portuguese)
  70. 1 2 "Brazilian immigrants in the Arab world". Brazil-Arab News Agency.
  71. ↑ "13 Brazilians in UAE football clubs". Emirates Business 24/7. September 15, 2010.
  72. ↑ "Brazilians to flock to Dubai". Arabian Business. 23 March 2008.
  73. ↑ The other special relationship: the UAE and the UK | The National
  74. ↑ "Moving to Dubai Case-Study". Movehub. Retrieved 2014-03-06.
  75. ↑ UK expats take advantage of weak sterling - Arabian Business
  76. ↑ Ще Привличаме Туристи От Оае Чрез Директни Полети
  77. ↑ В Дубай пият капучино със златен прах - trud.bg
  78. ↑ Емигрант по неволя, сънуващ нощем Гълъбово - www.PlovdivMedia.com
  79. ↑ http://www.bloomstart.eu/bg/index.php?action=addon_news_article&id=56
  80. ↑ Canada may limit services for dual citizens |GulfNews.com
  81. ↑ Dubai Mighty Camels playing our game - Canada.com
  82. ↑ Club for Canadians Dubai
  83. ↑ Celebrating Ja in Dubai - Entertainment - JamaicaObserver.com
  84. ↑ Cool and Caribbean! | GulfNews.com
  85. ↑ Jamaicans Languishing in Dubai Prison | Nationwide 90FM - Jamaica
  86. ↑ Croatian Community Growing In Dubai | Croatia Week
  87. ↑ Cubans living in Dubai meet with Cuban Ambassador | CubaMINREX
  88. ↑ Cubans in UAE see no changes with power transfer |GulfNews.com
  89. ↑ Cigar smokers hold fierce to tradition in Dubai and Abu Dhabi | The National
  90. ↑ Cigar sales in the UAE light up | GulfNews.com
  91. ↑ About Del Piero - Salsa Instructor | Ritmo De Havana
  92. ↑ Cyprus diplomat applauds visa-free travel to Europe for Emiratis | The National
  93. ↑ Danes to reopen embassy in Abu Dhabi: The National (UAE)
  94. ↑ Danes in Dubai - Official homepage
  95. ↑ Dutch consulate opens newoffice in Dubai Marina |GulfNews.com
  96. ↑ Eritreans in UAE celebrate independence day
  97. ↑ The UAE and Ethiopia: a love story of foreign direct investment | Al Bawaba
  98. ↑ Ethiopia wants Dh1,200 minimum wage for its citizens in the UAE | The National
  99. ↑ Employers of Ethiopian maids in UAE urged to inform embassy | The National
  100. ↑ 'We're the only Fijians in RAK' | The National
  101. ↑ Amoxicillin without a prescription - Safest medicine at half the price delivered in no time - www.mailife.com.fj
  102. ↑ Connell, John (2008). The Global Health Care Chain: From the Pacific to the World. Routledge. pp. 111, 112. ISBN 9781135912826.
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  104. ↑ New UAE job opportunities for Fijians
  105. ↑ FIJI EMBASSY UAE HOSTS FIRST FIJI DAY CELEBRATIONS | THE JET | Fiji's First Community Newspaper
  106. ↑ An Interview with Dr Robin Nair – Fiji’s Envoy in the Middle East | THE JET | Fiji's First Community Newspaper
  107. ↑ State sheds light on UAE jobs - Fiji Times Online
  108. ↑ Celebration In Abu Dhabi | Fiji Sun
  109. ↑ Dubai Filipinos rejoice as Cebu Pacific arrives with cheap deals - Emirates 24|7
  110. ↑ Embassy - Embassy of Finland, Abu Dhabi : Embassy
  111. ↑ His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid receives French PM
  112. ↑ French website helps UAE residents find la vie en rose |GulfNews.com
  113. 1 2 Dubai Guide in French / Guide de Dubaï françaisThe Just Landed Blog
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  115. ↑ http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/diaspora/artikel.php?ID=236432
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  118. ↑ http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/diaspora/artikel.php?ID=313817
  119. ↑ German expats in Dubai - TimeOut Dubai
  120. 1 2 Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Greece) - United Arab Emirates
  121. 1 2 3 Embassy of Greece in the UAE honours economic and commercial partners: Emirates Greeks
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  123. ↑ Routes News - A route in focus: Budapest–Dubai
  124. ↑ http://gulfnews.com/news/region/iran/iranian-expats-in-the-uae-see-polls-as-a-pointless-exercise-1.988403
  125. ↑ Desert Dreaming - Independent.ie
  126. ↑ Irish youth flock to UAE in search of better job opportunities - Emirates 24|7
  127. ↑ Irish minister Jimmy Deenihan makes UAE first stop on post-appointment tour | The National
  128. ↑ Why Irish eyes are smiling in the UAE |GulfNews.com
  129. ↑ 'Israelis no longer allowed in Dubai after Hamas hit' - Israel News | Haaretz
  130. 1 2 Israelis doing business in Dubai will wait out storm - Middle East - Jerusalem Post
  131. ↑ Japan-United Arab Emirates Relations (MOFA Japan)
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  133. ↑ Constantine, Zoi (October 11, 2007). "'I planted a judo seed in the desert'". Gulf News. Retrieved November 21, 2010.
  134. ↑ Kazakh community celebrates Independence Day | GulfNews.com
  135. ↑ ♔ Kazakhstan ♔ ♔ Society ♔ ♔ In ♔ ♔ Uae ♔
  136. ↑ Kenya-UAE resolve visa row: Kenya Broadcasting Corporation
  137. 1 2 MOFAT 2009
  138. ↑ Seok 1991, pp. 56–58
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  142. ↑ N. Korean Workers Brave Hard Times in UAE - Chosun
  143. ↑ Wonho Chung - Stand up Comedian & Host
  144. ↑ The First Ethnic Korean Comedian of the Middle East
  145. ↑ Dubai’s Kyrgyz community come together for Independence Day |GulfNews.com
  146. ↑ About us
  147. ↑ UAE Latvian community will benefit from embassy opening | The National
  148. ↑ "Looking to the Middle East". The Star Online. 25 January 2010.
  149. ↑ The National:First Mexican Embassy in UAE inaugurated
  150. ↑ From F1 to FIFA, the show rolls on
  151. ↑ Eye of the storm
  152. ↑ Smith, Jacqueline (25 May 2008). "Desert jewel a rough diamond". The New Zealand Herald. Retrieved 11 September 2011.
  153. ↑ Nigerian President receives outgoing UAE envoyUAE - The Official Web Site - News
  154. ↑ allAfrica.com: Nigeria: Why People Visit Dubai
  155. ↑ Norwegians mark 195th independence anniversary |GulfNews.com
  156. ↑ Polish expats praise freedom given by UAE |GulfNews.com
  157. ↑ Atrasi de mirajul Emiratelor. 5.000 de romani muncesc in Dubai pentru cateva mii de euro pe luna - www.InCont.ro
  158. ↑ Romanians look to boost ties with UAE |GulfNews.com
  159. 1 2 3 "Russians feel at home in UAE". Russia Today. 9 September 2007.
  160. ↑ Footie fundraiser - The Knowledge News - TimeOutDubai.com
  161. ↑ Rugby's tribute to tsunami victims | The National
  162. ↑ Air Serbia official website - airserbia.com
  163. 1 2 Singapore Embassy in UAE hosts National Day celebrations |GulfNews.com
  164. ↑ South Sudanese in UAE fear diplomatic limbo | The National
  165. ↑ flydubai makes maiden flight to Juba
  166. ↑ Spanish fans in the UAE expect team to reach World Cup quarterfinals, at least | The National
  167. ↑ Business - UAE and Spain focus on direct investment, renewable energy
  168. ↑ A meeting of minds |GulfNews.com
  169. 1 2 Dubai expats celebrate Persian New Year Nowruz |GulfNews.com
  170. ↑ The missing pillar in Thai-Gulf ties - Gulf News
  171. ↑ Turks living in the UAE vote in presidential elections | The National
  172. ↑ Turkish community group marks fourth anniversary |GulfNews.com
  173. ↑ English|Turkish Community Dubai - Dubai
  174. ↑ Dh20,000 to send a body home from UAE for burial | The National
  175. ↑ Ugandan robs bank in Dubai
  176. ↑ Warming up |GulfNews.com
  177. ↑ A bit like attending college: departing expat looks back on his UAE experience | The National
  178. ↑ http://www.uznews.net/en/society/23666-shoot-me-why-is-dubai-so-desirable
  179. ↑ File:Venezuelans around the world.PNG
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