About Umm Al Quwain
Umm Al Quwain is the second smallest and the least populated emirate in the UAE. It covers an area of approximately 720 sq. km. which is equivalent to 1 per cent of the UAE's area.
Population
According to the December 2005 census, the total population of Umm Al Quwain was 49,159.
The population of UAE nationals in Umm Al Quwain in mid-2010 was 17,482 comprising 8,671 males and 8,811 females. This is the only emirate where females outnumber males.
Location and Geography
Umm Al Quwain is situated between Sharjah to the southwest and Ras Al Khaimah to the northeast. The city of Umm Al Quwain is built on a narrow peninsula called Khor Al Bidiyah.
Economy
Fishing is a key contributor to the economy of Umm Al Quwain. The emirate exports seafood throughout Europe and Middle East.
The first poultry farm in the UAE was established in Falaj Al Mualla. It is considered a key supplier of poultry and dairy products to the local market.
The construction of Ahmed Bin Rashid Port and the Free Trade Zone signifies the emirate's plans towards expanding its commercial and investment base.
Umm Al Quwain’s Sustainable Blue Economy Strategy 2031 lays the foundations for the future growth of the emirate and its transformation into the ‘capital of the blue economy’. The strategy aims to enhance the emirate’s investment attractiveness while developing its natural, cultural and human wealth. As part of the Sustainable Blue Economy Strategy, the emirate also plans to expand its already strong mangrove cover threefold by 2031 to make a major contribution towards its net-zero target. The government will provide opportunities for youth, entrepreneurs and investors in vital and promising sectors.
Touristic Importance
The emirate has rich coastal mangroves on the coast of Arabian Gulf and many islands that lie to the east of the mainland. The biggest island, Al Seniah, is home to Arabian gazelles, falcons and turtles.
Umm Al Quwain provides facilities for numerous recreational activities; from sailing to skydiving. Traditional activities such as dhow building and sports such as falconry and camel racing are also popular in the emirate. Dreamland Aqua Park, the UAE's largest water park and resort attracts several visitors.
The Ruling Family
The ruling family descends from the Al Mualla lineage of the Al Ali tribe, which moved from Seniah Island due to scarce water and established an independent Sheikhdom in Umm Al Quwain.
Umm Al Quwain is ruled by H. H. Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla. He became the Ruler and a member of the Supreme Council after the demise of his father H. H. Sheikh Rashid bin Ahmad Al Mualla, the then Ruler of Umm of Quwain on 2 January 2009.
- List of Umm Al Quwain Government's departments - Government of Umm Al Quwain
Useful links:
- The official portal of Umm Al Quwain Government
