Abdulaziz Istaitieh. A Japan-UAE FTA: Analysis and Benefits. Abu Dhabi, The Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research, 2008.

As a result s a result of determination, foresight and cooperation a country was born in 1971 by joining seven neighboring emirates to create the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Before then, the economies of the separate emirates were essentially reliant upon pearl diving, fishing, handicrafts and agriculture, but the eventual discovery of oil meant this new resource came to dominate their respective economies. Since 1971, efforts have been channeled toward developing an efficient infrastructure, with sectors such as telecommunications, transportation, health, education and industry being high on the UAE's agenda.