Chapter 3: Persian Gulf, Arabian Peninsula
United Arab Emirates:
Overview
Facts
/ Geography, Climate / Cities
/ Posture Statement Excerpt
Leadership
/ System Essentials / Infrastructure
/ Population / Fielded Forces
/ Table of Contents
The UAE topography consists largely of flat or rolling desert, with mountains in the northeast. The country lies on the southern shore of the Persian Gulf and is bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south and west, and Oman to the east and north (most of the boundary with Oman is undefined).
The climate can be very hot and dry during the summer in the desert regions with mild winters. There is frequent high humidity along the Persian Gulf coast. The annual rainfall is low.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is becoming increasingly important to the USCENTCOM regional strategy. The country, which borders both the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, is actually an oil-rich federation of seven sheikdoms. A supporter of U.S. naval presence in the region, the Government of the UAE hosts an extensive port visit program. Its strategic geographic location and excellent facilities make seaports such as Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and most frequently Jebel Ali ideal destinations for regular U.S. Navy ship visits. Fujairah, on the Gulf of Oman, offers the unique quality of allowing logistical support to reach destinations on the Arabian Gulf by modern highway without requiring a transit through the Strait of Hormuz.
The UAE is a key supporter of U.S. actions in the region, our relationship having matured significantly during the Gulf War. An appreciation for U.S. efforts to maintain stability in the Gulf has translated into closer military ties and a recognition of the value of U.S. presence as a deterrent to aggression. On 23 July, 1994 the U.S. and the UAE signed a Defense Cooperation Agreement, and in October UAE troops deployed to Kuwait during Operation VIGILANT WARRIOR in response to the deployment of Iraqi Republican Guard forces along the Kuwaiti border. The UAE continues to support the Peace Process, and contributes financially to improving the life of Palestinians.
In response to potential external threats such as Iranian attempts at intimidation, the UAE is seeking to improve its defensive capabilities. The UAE continues to pursue peaceful resolution of its dispute with Iran over the issue of Abu Musa and the Tunbs Islands, seeking an International Court of Justice ruling on the issue as Iran continues to improve its military position on the islands. Continued support by the U.S. is needed to help the UAE meet its legitimate defense needs.