Pray for United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates is one of the world’s most ethnically diverse countries. Nearly 90 percent of its residents are migrants who moved there to work in the nation’s robust economy. The United Arab Emirates, once dependent on fishing, has grown into an oil-based economy consistent with those of leading Western European nations. Its economy also revolves around global finance, tourism, and technology. Dubai’s unique architecture and culture alone bring in millions of tourists. While the country is a melting pot of cultures, it still retains its vibrant native customs. Emirati citizens are proud of their heritage, whether it’s traditional dances at weddings or rooting for their favorite camel racing team. The nation is made up of seven emirates, each with its own absolute monarch, unique infrastructure, municipal courts, and economic policies. They are bound under a single flag by the National Supreme Council, which makes decisions on national defense and security. As the country’s official religion, Islamic Shari’ah law guides its legislation.

The booming economy of the UAE largely falls on the shoulders of exploited migrant laborers. Millions endure extreme heat, low pay, and wage theft under the Kafala system, which binds their legal status to a single employer and restricts them from changing jobs or leaving the country. They are strictly forbidden from forming trade unions, leaving them with little hope of improving their situation. Workers are not the only ones being exploited. Although the country projects an image of tolerance, its justice system and vague laws are often abused. The government severely restricts free speech, monitoring its people through invasive domestic and international surveillance. Those caught criticizing the government are executed or imprisoned with no due process of law.

The United Arab Emirates allows greater religious freedom than many neighboring nations, granting Christians the freedom to worship in roughly 40 approved churches. The number of recognized churches cannot keep pace with the growth of the Church, but establishing new churches is difficult. In the Emirate of Dubai alone, more than 150 underground church meetings are held in secret. Although relatively free, the Church is strictly prohibited from evangelizing, especially to Muslims. Muslim-background believers endure severe persecution, often risking their jobs, inheritance, and safety, which forces many to relocate. Many converts are ostracized by their families and may even be killed for bringing shame to the family name.