Formed in 1971, the United Arab Emirates comprises seven individual emirates, where vast amounts of oil were discovered in the 1950s. With an oil reserve that makes up almost one-tenth of the world's total, this desert country the size of South Carolina has a stable economy, a labor force that is 13 percent female, and boasts one of the highest standards of living in the world.

Electronic reproduction.

A new world wonder -- The Trucial Coast -- The era of petroleum and independence -- Early challenges to the new nation -- Religion and traditions of the UAE -- Women in the UAE -- Education and economy -- The culture of UAE -- The future of UAE.