Case Study1: The Internationalization of the UAE

Ethnic Social and Religious Subcultures

What makes the United Arab Emirates unique in the world is that out of a population of approximately 10 million inhabitants (as of 2019) 88.5% are expatriates mainly coming from Asia (e.g. India, Philippines, Pakistan) but also from other Arab states. For their part, Westerners (e.g. Europe, Australia, and North America) account for 8% of the expatriates’ residents. Although Arabic is the official language, English is the main language of business and trade which makes life quite convenient for expatriates. Islam is the official religion and practiced by most of the population, but other faiths are respected thus practiced as shown by the presence of diverse churches. Furthermore, given the significant number of non-Muslim residents as well as the fact these expatriates are needed to build the country’s infrastructures, and carry-out the long term strategic plan, the country has made the decision the allow western-type entertainment symbols such as beverages served in most hotels and specific restaurants. Retail shopping is second to none with the availability of established international brands.

This openness and tolerance have made the UAE a sought for work destination and a little paradise for the expatriate population of around the world. The very soon to be held Expo 2021 will help consolidate the international status of the UAE. In the sport arena, the UAE devotes veneration for western sports such as football, rugby, golf, and car racing. For example, several football and rugby exhibitions are organized every year with the participation of top international players. Golf reaches top recognition with the Dubai World Championship and the Dubai Desert Classic both part of the prestigious European PGA Tour. Legends such as Tiger Woods and Ernie Else have honored the tournaments by their presence. Car racing reached its ultimate expression with the obtaining of an exclusive F1 Grand Prix franchise that will be held in Abu Dhabi in November of each year. Amateur sports will also be honored with the organization of the 2013 World Swimming Championships in Dubai; an event held for the first time in the Middle East.

This latter event is important as it will eventually serve as an example of the capability of the UAE to organize Olympic type events. The UAE also glorifies the world of arts and education with the openings of the Louvre Abu Dhabi but also the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi in a few years from now on the purposely developed Saadiyat Island. Moreover, internationally recognized universities such as insead (Institut Européen d’Administration), the Sorbonne and New York University (NYU) have opened campuses in Abu Dhabi. Local institutions such the American University of Sharjah have reached prestige status by applying a rigorous North American education process.

1. Given the wide spectrum of expatriate subculture influencing in the UAE, to which extent the society can absorb it? Is there any possible adaptation? If yes, where do you think will be the limits?

2. In terms of religion, what are the issues the UAE are facing?

3. Is the UAE showing the way as a subculture within the Middle East or is the expatriate subculture just a passing fancy until the country is built?

4. Can you say that the UAE is purely a subculture part of a wider trend or is a cultural and ethnic model?

How would you describe its identity?