Every emirate has an ongoing border dispute either with one of the other emirates or Oman. The only time the rivalries became violent was in 1987 when Abu Dhabi and Dubai backed rival candidates to become ruler in Sharjah after Abdul-Aziz al Qasimi attempted to overthrow his nephew's government there.

Dubai is maintaining its own military command and refused to integrate its armed forces in the UAE's military. Zayed has been able to convince Dubai's ruling family to hold key UAE cabinet positions, such as those of defense and finance. He has also allowed Dubai to have veto power over all federal legislation.

Tribal history and loyalties to individual rulers remain important factors in the UAE's politics. Those rulers still hold the most power in UAE society and will probably do so for many years to come.

Click the Link here at: International Disputes
 

Updated: Jan. 01, 2005