Native People of Dubai: The Emiratis

The indigenous citizens of Dubai are **Emiratis** (Arabic: *al-Imārātiyyūn*)—the local Arab population of the United Arab Emirates.

Origins

• Descendants of **Bani Yas** tribal confederation (Al Bu Falasah branch settled Dubai c. 1833).
• Historically: pearling, fishing, trade, date farming.
• Bedouin roots: Liwa Oasis, Al Ain (inland). Seasonal migration (coast/inland).

Demographics (2023 est.)

• UAE citizens: ~11–12% of 9.5M population (~1.1M).
• Dubai citizens: ~15–20% of 3.6M emirate population.
• Majority: expatriates (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Philippines, Western, Arab).

Identity & Privileges

• Khulasat al-Qaid (family book) proves citizenship.
• Benefits: free healthcare, education, housing grants, marriage fund, land plots, job quotas (Emiratization), pension.
• Cannot naturalize easily; patrilineal descent.

Culture

• Language: Gulf Arabic dialect (Khaleeji).
• Religion: Sunni Islam (Maliki/Hanbali).
• Dress: Kandura (men), Abaya/Shayla (women).
• Values: hospitality, family, tribal loyalty, Islamic ethics.

Emiratis are a minority in their own emirate—stewards of a global city built on their ancestral sands.