UEA Risk Management Report: Visa-free access to the UK, next step Schengen

Established in 1971, the federation of the seven emirates of Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al-Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm Al-Quwain is a liberal and progressive state as far as the economy goes, but remains politically conservative. The federal government has legislative and executive jurisdiction over areas including foreign affairs, security and defence, air traffic control, education, public health, currency, electricity and immigration. Each emirate retains considerable economic independence and control over mineral rights and revenues.