United Arab Emirates: instilling identity and strengthening belonging: an analytical sociological study / Suaad Al-Oraimi

Includes bibliographical references (pages 269-279).

INTRODUCTION -- United Arab Emirates: Instilling Identity and Strengthening Belonging: An Analytical Sociological Study.. -- PART 1: THE CONCEPT OF NATIONAL IDENTITY -- 1 Essence of Identity.. -- 2 Identity in Relation to the Other -- 3 Consolidating Concepts of Belonging and Loyalty -- PART 2: IDENTITY AND SOCIAL CHANGE -- 1 Change and Its Impact on National Identity (Theoretical Framework) -- 2 The Impact of Demographic Structures on National Identity -- 3 Media and National Identity -- 4 Globalization and National Identity -- PART 3: IDENTITY AND BELONGING: THE IMPACT OF FAMILY, TRIBAL STRUCTURE AND HERITAGE -- 1 The Role of the Family in Consolidating Identity and Belonging....... -- 2 Union, Tribe and Belonging.. -- 3 Heritage and National Identity -- PART 4: FOREIGN POLICY AND CONSENSUAL IDENTITY -- 1 Foreign Policy and Internal Stability.. -- 2 Consensual Identity – Conclusion – Bibliography -- About the Author.

As a diverse society, the UAE embraces the notion of universal culture, which in many ways, best describes its prevailing context. This is not solely a result of the many nationalities that co-exist in the UAE, but because UAE society effectively adapts to its unique circumstances. Within this multicultural context, the characteristics that specifically shape UAE national identity should be recognized and nurtured. These elements draw on a unique combination of local attributes and heritage, as well as modern societal developments. National identity stems from the interaction between several societal, religious, political and psychological factors. Hence, the extent to which national identity is consolidated depends on the cohesion of its elements. Furthermore, its ability to promote belonging is subject to the strength of the bond between these components. The UAE's national identity is capable of fulfilling these conditions, if given the time and space to grow. Strengthening national identity and instilling loyalty among the UAE's youth requires a well-defined set of societal standards, as well as a robust national spirit, free of narrow, individual interests. The UAE citizen should be fully aware of the conditions governing the relationship between individual and collective identity, while appreciating the complexities that cultural differences can bring. This can be achieved through an ongoing process of reviewing and renewing educational curricula and policies, as well as adopting a knowledge strategy based on critical reflection and evaluation. The continued advancement of UAE society requires national identity to be further developed and instilled. This identity should incorporate various features, including the evolving fundamentals of Arab cultural identity. Crucially, as we look to the future, it should be with respect for the importance of national identity and a deep understanding of cultural diversity.