Formed in 1971, the UAE is a federation of seven emirates comprising the Emirates of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimeh, Sharjah and Umm al Quwain. The UAE Constitution provides for an allocation of powers between the federal government and the local ruler of each emirate.

Dubai is subject to the federal laws of the UAE, but retains the right to administer local affairs in accordance with its ruler’s decrees. The ruler of Dubai is Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who also serves as the Prime Minister and Vice-President of the United Arab Emirates.