Living in the UAE you will find yourself in one of the seven states (or emirates), which were formerly independent sheikdoms: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Qaiwain, Ras Al-Khaimah or Fujairah. Approximately 90% of the country consists of a desert terrain and mountainous terrain. The UAE is a thriving part of the world that is playing an increasingly significant role in both international business and tourism. In some countries within the region, such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi significant investment has been made into the infrastructure and opulent skyscrapers and hotels now characterize these areas.