United Arab Emirates

Established as a federation in 1971, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is seven semi-autonomous emirates or territories under an emir's rule.

In the first half of the 20th century, the UAE remained a traditional society. Yet, with the discovery of oil, it has become a modern and diverse society with a free market. The UAE has no democratically elected institutions and no rights of free speech, press, or religion. However, the women in the UAE have more rights than any other Middle Eastern women. The UAE constitution guarantees women equal rights in terms of legal status, inheritance and property rights, and education. The 2007-08 United Nations Report ranked the UAE 29th among 177 countries for the Gender Empowerment Measures.

The advancement of women began with the discovery of oil in the 1960s, as economic opportunities enabled more women to enter the workforce. By 2003, women comprised 22 percent of the overall labor force. While women still only hold 1 percent of high executive positions, as of 2007 they held 66 percent of government jobs. In 2008, UAE appointed its first female judge and registrar. During the first Gulf War, UAE women demanded they be allowed to enter the military. While there is virtually no coeducation in the UAE, women comprise 74 percent of university students and are some of the most literate in the Arab world.

Much of women's progress is due to their organizational efforts. In 1973, the wife of UAE President Sheikh Zayed, Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, started the Abu Dhabi Women's Society. She then united various women's groups throughout the emirates, forming the General Women's Union. Known as the “Mother of UAE,” Sheikha Fatima currently runs the Family Development Foundation.

While Islamic law, Sharià, is upheld in family life, men are prosecuted for abuse and rape. Men can have up to four wives and can dictate female conduct within their homes. Fornication is illegal, and single pregnant women can be jailed and have their baby removed from their care. However, the government dictates the law in civil society, which gives women equal rights and legal status. Women can obtain divorces and child custody and have rights to their own property. Women's legal status, economic opportunities, and educational rights make the UAE one of the most liberal countries in the Arab world.