United Arab Emirates: Section 4 - Force Structures

摘要

As head and president of the federation of sheikdoms, the ruler of Abu Dhabi is the de facto commander-in-chief of the UAE armed forces. Since 1976, the various emirate defense forces have been brought under a unified command. The Supreme Defense Council makes the decisions related to the military's organization, equipping, and training. The council's members include the president, the deputy president, the prime minister, four ministers (defense, foreign affairs, finance, interior), the deputy supreme commander, and the chief of staff. The deputy supreme commander oversees the implementation of the council's decisions. The UAE Armed Forces General Headquarters is based in Abu Dhabi, the federal capital, while the Ministry of Defense (largely a political entity with limited administrative responsibilities) is headquartered in Dubai.rnThe UAE armed forces total 65,500. Military service is voluntary. Dubai maintains an independent force of roughly 15,000 troops, forming two mechanized infantry brigades.