Prior to watching the video, my knowledge of the Middle East and North Africa was very limited, mostly due to a lack of interest. I knew that both regions’ climates were brutally hot and dry, the governments controlled their people (some even to the level of oppression), they were both oil-rich regions, and that the United States had a few allies sprinkled among these two regions.
After watching the video about the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Egypt, as well as doing some internet research, I learned that these two countries are about as different as night and day. In a nutshell, I would describe the United Arab Emirates as modern, vibrant, and visionary; while Egypt is mostly archaic, lackluster, but hopeful for change.
The only similarities between the two countries is that their official language is Arabic; their majority religion is Muslim; some of their major industries are textiles and cement; their major export is crude oil; and sheesha is enjoyed in both countries as recreation.
The major differences between these two countries is innovation and technology. The first visual impression of the UAE is that looks very sleek and new mostly because of its 400 high rises. The UAE has a strong economy with a very low 2.4% unemployment rate and a 19.5% poverty rate among a population of almost 5.1 million. The UAE donates $5.2 billion in economic aid annually to other countries. The average annual income is a robust $61,500. The UAE’s official currency is the Emirati dirham. The government is led by Sheiks, who are extremely visionary and act in the best interest of their subjects. UAE citizenship is highly sought-after because it has many perks and benefits, including free healthcare, university education, no income tax, and building grants. Transportation in the UAE includes luxury modern cars, abra boats, and a new high-tech subway system. Real estate in the UAE includes very upscale hotels and high rises. No expense is spared on...