Emiratis

The Emiratis (الإماراتيون; الإماراتيين) are the citizen population of the United Arab Emirates. Within the UAE itself, their number is approximately 1.15 million.

Formerly known as the Trucial States, the UAE is made up of seven emirates, each of which has a ruling family. Abu Dhabi was home to the Bani Yas tribal confederation; Dubai was settled in 1833 by an offshoot of the Bani Yas, the Al Bu Falasah; Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah are the home to the Al Qasimi or Qawasim; Ajman to the Al Na'im, Umm Al Quwain to the Al Ali and Fujairah to the Sharqiyin.

The Emiratis represent a diverse population with various ethnic, cultural, and tribal backgrounds. While united under the umbrella of Emirati citizenship, they encompass a range of ancestral origins, including Arabian, Persian and North African heritage. This diversity is rooted in historical interactions, migrations, conquest, and trade connections that have shaped the demographic landscape of the UAE. Emirati Arabic and English serve as the primary languages of communication amongst the Emirati populace. However, other languages such as Achomi, Balochi, and Swahili are also spoken among certain minority communities. 

Islam, being the state religion of the UAE, plays a central role in Emirati society, serving as a guiding force in daily life, governance, and cultural expression. The construction of mosques, observance of religious rituals, and adherence to Islamic principles underscore the spiritual and moral foundations of Emirati identity. Emiratis are all Muslims, approximately 90% of whom are Sunni while the remaining 10% are Shia. Different Islamic schools of thought are followed by the Sunni Emiratis, with the Bani Yas of Abu Dhabi and Dubai traditionally adhering to the Maliki school of Islamic jurisprudence. The emirates of Sharjah, Umm al-Quwain, Ras al-Khaimah, and Ajman following the Hanbali school, and Fujairah adhering to the Shafi'i school.

History


The ancient history of the UAE dates back centuries with archaelogical sites, such as Jebel Faya, indicating human presence as far back as 125,000 years ago. Evidence of human settlement and civilization can be found at sites like Al-Ain and Jebel Hafeet, and the region's importance as a trading hub along maritime routes connecting Mesopotamia, the Indus Valley, Meluhha, Elam, and Ancient Egypt, as evidenced by artifacts such as pottery, seals, and coins discovered at archaeological sites like Tell Abraq, Umm Al-Nar, and Ed-Dur, showcasing the early civilizations that flourished in the area, including the Magan and Dilmun civilizations, as well as the later influence of the Sumerians, Akkadians, Persians, and Greeks, all of which contributed to the cultural, ethnic, and historical development of the region.

The United Arab Emirates are a Union of seven emirates whose history are entwined with various empires, such as those of the Islamic Caliphates, Oman, Portugal, Iran, and the United Kingdom. Envoys from the Islamic prophet Muhammad saw the tribes of the area convert to Islam around 630 C.E., followed by a short period of apostasy which culminated in the Battle of Dibba.

Later in the 16th century, the Portuguese would battle the then-dominant force in the Persian Gulf, the Safavid dynasty, for control of the region. During the 17th century, the Ottomans took control of the islands and UAE was known as the "Pirate Coast." By the 19th century, the British Empire had taken complete control of the land then called the Trucial States. Oil was discovered in 1959. The Trucial States were under the control of the British Empire until 1971. Consequently, with weakening British control, the Trucial States became the UAE in 1971 with Ras al-Khaimah joining in 1972.

The term Emirati comes from the plural of the Arabic word emirate (إمارة), with adding the suffix -i. Each emirate is ruled by a Sheikh. The Bani Yas tribe forms the basis of many clans within the UAE. Sub-clans of the Bani Yas include


 * Al Bu Falah (Abu Dhabi)
 * Al Bu Falasah (Dubai)

The term "Emirati" also refers to Arabs with origins in the UAE. Many modern Emirati names are derived from these tribal names or offshoots of these tribes, for instance, Mazroui (from Mazari), Nuaimi (from Naim), and Al Sharqi (from Sharqiyin).

Lexicology
The word Emirati is a word derived from the Arabic name of the UAE "Al-Emarat," and the Arabic suffix -i which denotes belonging. The demonym Emirian has a similar root from except with the suffix -ian being added to emir. Rarer Emirian demonyms and adjectives include Emiri and Emiratian, both of which are unofficial and informal alternatives. However, due to strong tribal allegiances, many Emiratis also self-identify by their tribal affiliations. Historically, Emiratis were called Trucial Coasters or Trucials. Emiratis in ancient history were called Maganites.

National symbols
Falcon training is one of the UAE's national symbols. These birds can be seen on the emblem of the United Arab Emirates. They were traditionally used for hunting, and trained by the Bedouin tribes. Most Emiratis view Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan as an essential component of Emirati nationalism, Emiratis are commonly referred to as "Eyal Zayed," meaning sons of Zayed. Emiratis are proud of their nation's global name associated with tourist prospects, prefer interactions with fellow nationals, most are computer literate and adult Emiratis past born in the 21st century are more likely to be bilingual There are many landmarks and sculptures in the country of teapots, water jugs and coffeemakers to symbolize the hospitality of the Emirati people. Due to the pearl-diving history of the Emirates, nautical sailing and other activities at sea are sometimes emphasized. Due to its prominence throughout Emirati history in cultivation, date fruits play an important role in Emirati life. Another national symbol is the Arabic coffee pot with the elongated thin spout called a Dallah; a sign of Emirati generosity.

Demographics
The population of the UAE as of 2019 was 9.7 million with a minority being Emiratis. UAE nationals make up 1 million. Statistics for UAE nationals in 2018 as it follows:

Non-Emiratis form the vast majority of the UAE (88.52%) and are composed of expatriates, with the largest groups hailing from South Asian countries such as India (2.62 million), Pakistan (1.21 million) and Bangladesh (706,000). There are also nationals of other GCC and Arab countries who live in the UAE. Members of other Asian communities, including Iran (454,000), the Philippines (530,000).

Bedouin Emiratis
Bedouin Emiratis, also known as Bedu Emiratis or Bedouin Arab Emiratis, are Emiratis of Bedouin Arab descent. They have historically lived nomadically in the desert, adapting to harsh conditions by moving with their families and animals in search of water and grazing areas. This nomadic lifestyle has fostered a strong sense of community and kinship among Bedouin tribes, with social structures traditionally organized around extended family networks and tribal affiliations. Among the prominent Bedouin tribes in the UAE are the Al Bu Falah, Al Bu Shamis, Al Bu Qitab, Al Awamir, Al Nuaimi, and Al Kaabi, among others, each tracing their ancestry to different regions across the Middle East such as Yemen, Najd, Hejaz, and other parts of the Arabian Peninsula. While modernization and urbanization have brought about changes in Emirati society, many Bedouin Emiratis continue to maintain ties to their nomadic heritage, even as they settle into more sedentary lifestyles in urban areas.

Bedouin culture emphasizes preserving traditions through oral history, storytelling, and rituals, including distinctive clothing and music. Emirati traditions of Bedouin origin include: Yowlah, Falconry, Nabati Poetry, Razfa, Al Sadu, Emirati coffee culture, and the national clothing of the UAE.

Bedouin Emirati culture is often synonomous with Emirati culture. The Emirati government has embraced the Bedouin identity to shape the newly-united Emirati national identity, emphasizing values like resilience and hospitality to unify the diverse and often-times conflicting population. They promote Bedouin heritage to instill pride and belonging in Emirati citizens while adapting to modernization. This includes integrating Bedouin history into education, showcasing traditions in cultural initiatives, and incorporating Bedouin customs into national celebrations.

Ajam Emiratis
Ajam Emiratis, also known as Ayam Emiratis, Persian Emiratis or Iranian Emiratis, are Emiratis of Persian and Iranian descent. Majority of Ajam Emiratis trace their ancestral roots to Southern Iran, particularly the provinces of Fars and Hormozgan. The migration of Persians to Eastern Arabia, including the UAE, has occurred over centuries as historically, Persians have played a significant role in the cultural and economic development of what is now the UAE. The region, known as Magan and the province of Mazun in ancient times, was subject to various Persian empires, including the Achaemenid, Parthian, and Sassanian dynasties and a significant trading partner of the ancient Elam. Persian influence extended beyond political control to include trade, commerce, and cultural exchange. Moreover, the historical presence of the Kingdom of Hormuz, an influential Persian Gulf trading kingdom which controlled both sides of the gulf, further strengthened ties between Persians and Eastern Arabians. During the 18th and 19th centuries, substantial migration from southern Iran to the UAE transpired due to burgeoning trade networks and maritime commerce. This migration led to a significant settlement of Persians in coastal cities such as Dubai, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah, contributing to the region's cultural diversity and commercial growth. The Qassimi rulers, who governed territories in both southern Iran and the Emirates during this period, facilitated trade and migration between the two regions, thereby bolstering connections between Ajam communities in Iran and the UAE. In 1972, Article 17 of the newly promulgated Citizenship and Passport Law offered Emirati citizenship to Iranians who were living in the British-protected Trucial States prior to 1925 or before the UAE’s independence in 1971. Ajam Emiratis comprise the majority of the Shia Emirati population, with the remaining Shia Emiratis predominantly being Baharna Emiratis. Among the Sunni Ajam Emiratis, a notable portion trace their ancestry to the Achomi people, an ethnic subgroup within the broader Persian community. The Achomi primarily reside in southern Iran and their native language is Achomi. Many Ajam Emiratis, particularly those in Ras Al Khaimah and Dibba, are of Kumzari ancestry and also communicate in Kumzari. Additionally, many Ajam are of Afro-Iranian and Huwala origin. Ajam Emiratis constitute the majority of the Bedoon population, many whom reportedly hold Comoran passports due to a deal between the governments of the UAE and Comoros.

The Ajam community has left a significant imprint on Emirati culture. Persian culinary traditions have merged with local Emirati cuisine, evident in dishes featuring Persian spices, ingredients, and cooking techniques. Persian music, dance, and literature also hold influence in the UAE, contributing to the country's cultural diversity and artistic expressions. Emirati Arabic has absorbed a significant number of words from Persian and other Iranian languages. Persian influence is also evident in Emirati architecture, notably through features such as the Barjeel, a traditional windcatcher of Persian origin. Qasr al-Hosn, the oldest stone building in the UAE, was designed by Mohammed Al Bastaki in 1761. Al Bastakiya, a historical district in the city of Dubai, was built by Ajam Emirati merchants, many of Bastaki origin, a city in southern Iran.

Some Ajam Emiratis have found themselves caught in the crossfire of the Iran-Arabia proxy conflict, facing challenges such as discrimination, political tensions, and economic uncertainty. The UAE's strategic alliance with Saudi Arabia, coupled with its efforts to maintain neutrality in regional conflicts, has created a complex environment for Ajam communities with connections to Iran. Instances of heightened security measures, surveillance, and political scrutiny targeting individuals perceived to have affiliations with Iran have been reported. Anti-Iranian sentiment has also been promoted due to disputes over Abu Musa and the Greater and Lesser Tunbs, the Persian Gulf naming dispute, and the Sunni-Shia divide. Many argue that the Emirati government ignore historical Ajam Emirati influence and identity in favor of promoting a more unified Arab Bedouin identity.

Afro-Emiratis
Afro-Emiratis, also known as Black Emiratis, are Emiratis of Black African and Afro-Arab descent. They are mostly concentrated in the Northern Emirates. Despite their minority status within the broader Emirati population, they have a significant historical presence and cultural contribution, especially in sports and music. Afro-Emirati traditions include Liwa, Fann at-Tanbura, Bandari, and Nuban. The history of Afro-Emiratis dates back centuries, with evidence of trade and cultural interactions between the Arabian Peninsula and Africa existing since antiquity. Afro-Emiratis are culturally close to other African diaspora in the Persian Gulf and Arabian Peninsula, such as Afro-Omanis, Afro-Saudis, and Afro-Iranians.

Most Afro-Emiratis are descendants of Zanzibari, East African, and Southern African slaves. The UAE's involvement in the Indian Ocean slave trade and proximity to the Omani Empire shaped the presence of individuals of African descent in the region.

Afro-Emiratis, like other Emiratis, identify with the national identity of the UAE and the wider Eastern Arabian and Arab identity. Slaves were considered as members of the tribes and the families to which they were enslaved. After the abolishment of slavery, freed slaves were given the option to adopt the surname of the tribes they served, many former slaves were granted Emirati citizenship in 1971.

Despite enjoying full legal rights as Emirati citizens, many Afro-Emiratis face social stigma, issues of racial identity and acceptance remains complex within the UAE, efforts to promote inclusivity are ongoing, but challenges persist, particularly in areas of intermarriage and societal perceptions of an 'Emirati' identity.

Languages
Emiratis predominantly communicate in Emirati Arabic (Arabic: اللهجة الإماراتية, romanized: al-Lahjah al-Imārātīyah), a variant of Gulf Arabic that serves as the national language in the UAE, though the official status is granted to Modern Standard Arabic which is used in politics, literature, news, and diplomacy. Emirati Arabic distinguishes itself through its unique vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammatical structures, setting it apart from other Arabic dialects prevalent in the region. Emirati Arabic dialects are believed to have evolved from the linguistic variations spoken by ancient pre-Islamic Arabian tribes in Eastern Arabia, particularly the Azd, Qays, and Tamim, as noted by Emirati linguist and historian, Ahmed Obaid.

Additionally, Emirati Arabic incorporates grammatical properties from smaller varieties within the UAE, generally of tribal nature, leading to variations identifiable across different geographical regions. Emirati Arabic encompasses several dialectal variations, each with its own characteristics and influences. These variations can be broadly categorized into sub-varieties based on geographical distribution:


 * 1) Northern Emirates Dialects: Spoken in Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Quwain, and the western part of Ras al-Khaimah. This dialect features unique phonological, lexical, and morphosyntactic features influenced by the cultural and historical context of the northern regions.
 * 2) Eastern Emirates Dialects: Found mainly in Fujairah, Dibba, Khor Fakkan, Hatta, Kalba, and the eastern part of Ras al-Khaimah. This dialect exhibits distinct linguistic characteristics shaped by the geographical and cultural context of the eastern coastal areas.
 * 3) Abu Dhabi Dialects: Spoken in Abu Dhabi, including the oasis city of Al Ain, with linguistic influences extending into the Omani region of Al-Buraimi. This dialect reflects unique linguistic features influenced by the historical and cultural dynamics of the capital region.

Furthermore, Emirati Arabic dialects can also be distinguished based on environmental factors, including variations associated with Bedouin communities, coastal, agricultural, and mountainous regions.

Emirati Arabic, while predominant, exists alongside several minority languages spoken by specific communities within the UAE, including:


 * 1) Swahili: a Bantu language primarily spoken by Afro-Emirati communities, Swahili reflects historical ties between the East African coast and the Arabian Peninsula. It is prevalent among communities with ancestry tracing back to coastal regions such as Zanzibar and Kenya. However, concerns about its decline, particularly among the younger population influenced by modernization and globalization, raise questions about its preservation within Afro-Emirati communities. 
 * 2) Kumzari: a Southwestern Iranian language primarily spoken by the Shihuh and Kumzars, indigenous communities in the Musandam Peninsula and parts of the northern UAE. Kumzari exhibits unique linguistic features and ancient roots dating back to pre-Islamic times. Efforts are made to preserve and promote Kumzari as part of the cultural heritage of the region.
 * 3) Balochi: a Northwestern Iranian language primarily spoken by Balochis and Ajam Emiratis with historical and cultural ties to the Balochistan region spanning Iran, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. Balochi-speaking communities in the UAE maintain their language as a marker of identity and cultural heritage, preserving their distinct cultural traditions.
 * 4) Achomi: a Persian and Southwestern Iranian language primarily spoken by Ajam Emiratis, who have Persian ancestry, Achomi is a widely spoken minority language. Achomi, belonging to the Iranian branch of the Indo-Iranian language family, holds cultural significance for Ajam communities, serving as a means of maintaining connections to their Persian heritage. 

Despite the prevalence of Arabic and other minority langauges, English holds significant importance as a widely understood second language, particularly in urban centers and business environments. The UAE's status as a global hub for commerce, tourism, and diplomacy has fostered the widespread adoption of English as a lingua franca, facilitating communication with individuals from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Culture
Emirati culture has been described as a blend of Eastern Arabian, Islamic, and Persian cultures, with influences from the cultures of East Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, and in recent years the West.

Men
The traditional dress often worn by Emirati men includes the Kandura, an ankle-length white shirt woven from wool or cotton, and the Ghutra, a traditional headdress usually made from wool. It provides protection from sunburn, dust, and sand, and it is usually worn alongside the Agal which keeps it in place. This attire is particularly well-suited to the UAE's hot, dry climate. Other traditional Emirati piece of clothing for men include:


 * The Bisht, a long black cloak embroidered and decorated with silver, copper, or gold of Persian origin, is usually worn over the Kandura on special occasions.
 * The Shemagh, similar to the Ghutra but made of heavier material and is more commonly worn by the younger generation.
 * The Gahfiyah, also known as Taqiyah, a traditional hat of African origin usually worn under the Ghutra.




 * The Faneela, a white vest worn under the Kandura
 * The Wizar, a loose piece of undergarment worn under the Kandura that is tied around the waist
 * The Na'al, heelless slippers made from leather.
 * The Serwaal, an alternative to the Woozar, wide and baggy trousers held up by a drawstring or an elastic belt usually worn the Kandura
 * The Tarboush, a long loose tassel attached to the Kandura

Women The traditional dress most commonly worn by Emirati women is the Abaya, a simple, loose-over garment, usually black in color, it is often worn alongside the Shayla, a long rectangular headscarf. Usually it is either wrapped around the neck and tucked or pinned in place at the shoulders.

Other traditional Emirati piece of clothing for women include:


 * The Gishwah, a light see-through fabric that is wrapped around the face.
 * The Battoulah, also known as Gulf Burqa, a metallic-looking mask that typically covers a woman’s eyebrows and lower face. The burqa is mainly worn for modesty by married women. However, it also protects a woman’s face from the sweltering sun and dust, and according to numerous tales, the burqa's design was influenced by the countenance of the falcon.
 * The Jalabiya, a colourful embroidered dress, is the traditional attire of Emirati women. There are many different types of jalabiyas. Jalabiyas worn daily are usually made of cotton threads or prism embroidery threads, while jalabiyas worn on special occasions such as weddings and Eid are called thobes. Thobes are made of zari threads (shiny threads) and crystals. The jalabiya comes in traditional forms as well as modern ones, varying in designs, colours and materials.
 * Gold is a very important part of Emirati attire. Many unique gold pieces adorn woman from head to toe. Some accessories are worn daily, such as the heyool (bracelet), mariya (necklace), and shighab (earrings). Other pieces are only worn on special events such as:
 * The tassah, a heavy headpiece made of pure gold with dangling gold chains draping over the hair.
 * The haqqab, a gold belt usually worn on top of the thobe.
 * Fitakh, a wide toe ring that covers most of a woman's toe.



Values
The influence of Islamic culture on Emirati architecture, music, attire, cuisine, and lifestyle are very prominent. Five times every day, Muslims are called to the prayer from the minarets of mosques which are scattered around the country.

Music and dance
Emirati music varies to each area although most are on folklore's, some cultural dances are the horbya which well known all over the United Arab Emirates, The Ayala which is well known in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Other music is shalat which does not involve any type of instruments.

Religion
Islam is the largest and the official state religion of the UAE and the government follows a policy of tolerating the existence of other religions, through the Ministry of Tolerance.

There are approximately 31 churches throughout the country, one Hindu temple in the region of Jebel Ali, 2 Sikh Gurudwaras, (with the biggest one located in the Jebel Ali district of Dubai), a Buddhist temple in the Al Garhoud of Dubai and 2 synagogues (1 for visitors during Shabbat only). Emiratis are majority Muslims, approximately 90% of whom are Sunni while the remaining 10% are Shia.

Different Islamic schools of thought are followed by Emiratis. The Bani Yas, which today form the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and Emirate of Dubai, traditionally adhere to the Sunni Maliki school of Islamic jurisprudence from the Uyunid dynasty, who spread the Maliki school by the command of Sheikh Abdullah bin Ali Al Uyuni. The four emirates of Sharjah, Umm al-Quwain, Ras al-Khaimah, and Ajman follow the Hanbali school, and the Emirate of Fujairah follows the Shafi'i school.

The government gives freedom to people to choose their significant others.

Genetics and Racial Classification
DNA tests of Y chromosomes from representative sample of Emiratis were analyzed for composition and frequencies of haplogroups, a plurality (45.1%) belong to Haplogroup J1-M267 which was originally found in the Caucasus and the Middle East Other frequent haplogroups divided between E (16.1%), R (11.6%), T (4.9%) and G (4.3%).

Racial Classification of Emiratis
A study published in the European Journal of Human Genetics (2019) showed that Emiratis, along with Bedouins and other Middle-Easterners share genetic similarities with Europeans from the Mediterranean, and Balkans, and North Africans and therefore are considered Caucasian. A study published on the National Library of Medicine website (2023) showed that Emiratis share genetic similarities with people from the Arabian Peninsula, West Mediterranean, and to a lesser extent populations of East Mediterranean, Levantine Arab, Iranian, and Sub-Saharan origins. Ancestry varies among tribes within the Emirati population, influenced by historical and demographic factors. Another study in Oxford University genetic analysis study (2022) reveals a mix of Middle Eastern, African, Central and South Asian ancestries, likely stemming from ancient migrations and recent gene flow. Tribal customs, including endogamy, have contributed to genetic differences, reflecting geographical factors and familial affiliations.Katherine S Elliott, Marc Haber, Hinda Daggag, George B Busby, Rizwan Sarwar, Derek Kennet, Michael Petraglia, Lawrence J Petherbridge, Parisa Yavari, Frauke U Heard-Bey, Bindu Shobi, Tariq Ghulam, Dalia Haj, Alia Al Tikriti, Alshafi Mohammad, Suma Antony, Maitha Alyileili, Shatha Alaydaroos, Evelyn Lau, Mark Butler, Arash Yavari, Julian C Knight, Houman Ashrafian, Maha T Barakat, Fine-Scale Genetic Structure in the United Arab Emirates Reflects Endogamous and Consanguineous Culture, Population History, and Geography, Molecular Biology and Evolution, Volume 39, Issue 3, March 2022, msac039, https://doi.org/10.1093/molbev/msac039 "Emiratis form a distinct cluster, located proximal to the European populations on PCs 1 and 2 but drawn toward Sub-Saharan African populations while a subset of the Emiratis appears drawn toward South Asians. We also note here that some individuals completely overlapped with Africans and Central Asians reflecting their recent origin from these populations.

"Population tree inferred using Treemix (Pickrell and Pritchard 2012) showed that all Emirates, together with Qatar, cluster on a branch and receive African gene flow, probably from diverse sources as it was previously suggested (Hellenthal et al. 2014; Almarri et al. 2021). We estimate using admixture-induced linkage disequilibrium that the African ancestry was already present in the Emirates around 1,000 years ago but its influx appears to have been a continuous process until very recent times consistent with our findings from the PCA. Similarly, Central Asian admixture can be detected starting 2,900 years ago and continued until more recent times."

"The Emiratis appear in these tests as significant source of ancestry to many Eurasian and East African populations suggesting an autochthonous component related to ancient Middle Easterners is retained in the genetic landscape. As targets of admixture, the Emirati populations have significant African ancestry as shown in our PCA, Treemix and ALDER results."

"We have investigated the genome-wide diversity of the Emirati population and found that both ancient and more recent demographic events have contributed to the genetic formation and structure of the population. Our admixture tests suggest that the population retains an autochthonous Middle Eastern ancestry supplemented with African and South Asian ancestries. The Emirati population captures admixture events that have occurred thousands of years ago, possibly related to movement of people in the Middle East after major cultural transitions such as the invention of agriculture or more recent movements related to climate change and desertification of the region in the past 6,000 years ago (Petraglia et al. 2020; Almarri et al. 2021). However, we found in our data set individuals who were genetically identical to present-day Africans or Central/South Asians, suggesting gene flow into the Emirates is still an ongoing process."

Emirati diaspora
Emirati ancestry, the result of emigration, also exists in other parts of the world, most notably in the Arabian Peninsula, Europe, and North America. Population estimates are seen to have a very small diaspora, mainly because the UAE provides them with more than adequate welfare benefits, removing the need to live and work in other developed countries.