United Arab Emirates

Abu Dhabi is the official capital of the United Arab Emirates, housing the federal government, the Presidential Palace, and most foreign embassies. It’s also the largest emirate by area, while Dubai—though the biggest city and commercial hub—is not the capital. After the UAE formed in 1971, Abu Dhabi’s oil wealth under Sheikh Zayed helped unite and develop the federation. To remember: A for Abu Dhabi = Administration; D for Dubai = Deals/Development—Abu Dhabi runs the country, Dubai runs much of the business.