The United Arab Emirates (UAE) was established in 1971 as a loose confederation of seven emirates previously known as the Trucial States. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was the president until his death in November 2004. His son, Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, was elected president the following day. Approximately 80 percent of the people living in this oil-rich nation are foreigners working in the country.

Islam is the state religion, with a Sunni majority and a small Shi’a minority. There are admirably high levels of religious freedom for an Arab state, but proselytism is still illegal.

Radical changes in the last generation have created a culture crisis in the UAE. Traditionalists and progressives face off over many issues such as the role of women and democracy. Expatriate Christians, who almost account entirely for UAE Christians, have opportunities for discreet sharing as the nation becomes more open and international. However, arrests, imprisonment and deportation still occur for those who evangelize or distribute Christian literature unwisely.

Prayer Requests

• Pray that new opportunities will yield a spiritual hunger for the truth and not just the trappings of a wealthy lifestyle.
• Pray that foreign Christians will demonstrate Christ in their words and deeds with discernment and confidence.