United Arab Emirates

Leader: President Sheikh Khalifa
Population: 4.6 million (400,000 Christians)
Main Religion: Islam
Government: Federation
World Watch Rank: 34

One of the most liberal countries in the Gulf, around 80 per cent of the population are expatriates. The constitution provides for religious freedom, although the government restricts this freedom in practice. Islam is the official religion, and all citizens are defined as Muslims. Evangelism and the distribution of non-Islamic religious literature is prohibited. The law denies Muslims the freedom to change religion and converts may face pressure to return to Islam. However, non-Muslim groups can worship freely, either in dedicated buildings or in private homes.

Please Pray:

• Pray that foreign Christians would have wisdom in sharing their faith
• Internet use is extensive; pray that Christian internet sites would reach many with the gospel
• The standard of living is generally high because of oil wealth; pray that riches would not be a barrier to people receiving the gospel.