The UAE has experienced a veritable economic miracle since independence in 1971 and is now one of the wealthiest countries in the world. Its demographic history is unique with the population having increased around 150 fold since 1950. Only 11.5% of the 2025 population of 11.3 million are citizens, something which undoubtedly influences the State's behaviour on the world stage. The UAE sits in a very volatile region and must navigate very carefully to avoid being drawn into conflict, something which it has managed to date but the future is uncertain.