The United Arab Emirates, like other Persian Gulf littoral states, is grappling with a structural challenge between rapid economic growth and lack of political development which is characterized by violation of international human rights standards. However, it seems that signs of democratic reforms and more respect for human rights are gradually appearing in that country in order to appease international public opinion, attract foreign investments, and achieve sustainable development targets. However, the most important criticism related to human rights violations of UAE government has, thus far, focused on four issues: A) disregard for the rights of immigrant workers; B) restrictions on freedom of expression; C) human smuggling; and D) capital punishment and other forms of physical punishments.
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