The United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) is a federation of seven emirates - Abu Dhabi, Dubai, 'Ajman, Al Fujayrah, Al-Shariqah, Umm al Qaywayn, and Ras al Khaymah.  It was established on December 2, 1971. Islam is the official religion of the UAE. Arabic is the national and official language of the United Arab Emirates. Dubai is the most populous city among the federation and has rapidly emerged as the financial hub in the Middle East with a population of approximately 1.8 million people. Dubai Arab natives (Emirati) are less than 15% of the population of Dubai. The vast majority, more than 85% of the population, are expatriates from around the world.