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.[30][31] This diversity is rooted in historical interactions, migrations, conquest, and trade connections that have shaped the demographic landscape of the UAE.[32][30][33][34]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.[23]
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.[35] Emiratis are mostly Muslims, approximately 90% of whom are Sunni while the remaining 10% are Shia.[36] 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.[37] The emirates of Sharjah, Umm al-Quwain, Ras al-Khaimah, and Ajman following the Hanbali school, and Fujairah adhering to the Shafi'i school.[38]
^United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs. Population Division (2017). "Trends in International Migrant Stock: The 2017 revision"(Exel). United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs. Population Division. Retrieved 18 September 2020.
^Edmonds, James (8 September 2017). The House of Nahyan: The Story of an Arabian Dynasty. Independently published (published 8 September 2017). ISBN978-1-71780-318-4.
^Heard-Bey, Frauke (2005). From Trucial States to United Arab Emirates : a society in transition (1941-). London: Motivate. ISBN978-1-86063-167-2. OCLC64689681.
^ abCite error: The named reference :5 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).