While united under the umbrella of Emirati citizenship, they encompass a range of ancestral origins, including Arabian, Persian and North African heritage.

[30] Islam, being the state religion of the UAE, plays a central role in Emirati society, serving as a guiding force in daily life, governance, and cultural expression.

The construction of mosques, observance of religious rituals, and adherence to Islamic principles underscore the spiritual and moral foundations of Emirati identity.

[34] The history of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a rich tapestry of ancient traditions, colonial influences, and modern development.The ancient history of the UAE dates back centuries with archaeological sites, such as Jebel Faya, indicating human presence as far back as 125,000 years ago.

[35] Evidence of human settlement and civilization can be found at sites like Al-Ain and Jebel Hafeet,[36] and the region's importance as a trading hub along maritime routes connecting Mesopotamia, the Indus Valley, Meluhha, Elam, and Ancient Egypt, as evidenced by artifacts such as pottery, seals, and coins discovered at archaeological sites like Tell Abraq, Umm Al-Nar, and Ed-Dur, showcasing the early civilizations that flourished in the area, including the Magan and Dilmun civilizations, as well as the later influence of the Sumerians, Akkadians, Persians, and Greeks, all of which contributed to the cultural, ethnic, and historical development of the region.

They have historically lived nomadically in the desert, adapting to harsh conditions by moving with their families and animals in search of water and grazing areas.

This nomadic lifestyle has fostered a strong sense of community and kinship among Bedouin tribes, with social structures traditionally organized around extended family networks and tribal affiliations.

Bedouin culture emphasizes preserving traditions through oral history, storytelling, and rituals, including distinctive clothing and music.

[70][71][72][73] During the 18th and 19th centuries, substantial migration from southern Iran to the UAE transpired due to burgeoning trade networks and maritime commerce.

This migration led to a significant settlement of Persians in coastal cities such as Dubai, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah, contributing to the region's cultural diversity and commercial growth.

Among the Sunni Ajam Emiratis, a notable portion trace their ancestry to the Achomi people, an ethnic subgroup within the broader Persian community.

[83][84] Ajam Emiratis constitute the majority of the Bedoon population, many whom reportedly hold Comoran passports due to a deal between the governments of the UAE and Comoros.

Persian music, dance, and literature also hold influence in the UAE, contributing to the country's cultural diversity and artistic expressions.

Some Ajam Emiratis have found themselves caught in the crossfire of the Iran-Arabia proxy conflict, facing challenges such as discrimination, political tensions, and economic uncertainty.

The UAE's strategic alliance with Saudi Arabia, coupled with its efforts to maintain neutrality in regional conflicts, has created a complex environment for Ajam communities with connections to Iran.

Instances of heightened security measures, surveillance, and political scrutiny targeting individuals perceived to have affiliations with Iran have been reported.

Despite their minority status within the broader Emirati population, they have a significant historical presence and cultural contribution, especially in sports and music.

[93][94][95] The history of Afro-Emiratis dates back centuries, with evidence of trade and cultural interactions between the Arabian Peninsula and Africa existing since antiquity.

Afro-Emiratis are culturally close to other African diaspora in the Persian Gulf and Arabian Peninsula, such as Afro-Omanis, Afro-Saudis, and Afro-Iranians.

The UAE's involvement in the Indian Ocean slave trade and proximity to the Omani Empire shaped the presence of individuals of African descent in the region.

[101] Additionally, Emirati Arabic incorporates grammatical properties from smaller varieties within the UAE, generally of tribal nature, leading to variations identifiable across different geographical regions.

Notably, Shihhi Arabic, prevalent in the eastern region of the UAE, particularly in the emirates of Ras al Khaimah and Fujairah.

The UAE's status as a global hub for commerce, tourism, and diplomacy has fostered the widespread adoption of English as a lingua franca, facilitating communication with individuals from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

[121] The United Arab Emirates enjoys a strong tradition of music and dance which played a vital role in many aspects of its people's lives.

The Al-Ayyalah" or "Yowla," is a traditional Emirati folk dance that holds significant cultural importance in the United Arab Emirates and other parts of the Arabian Peninsula.

Tribal customs, including endogamy, have contributed to genetic differences, reflecting geographical factors and familial affiliations.

[25] Emirati ancestry, the result of emigration, also exists in other parts of the world, most notably in the Arabian Peninsula, Europe, and North America.

Population estimates are seen to have a very small diaspora, mainly because the UAE provides them with more than adequate welfare benefits, removing the need to live and work in other developed countries.