The concept of citizenship has become central in modern political literature. The concept is subject to controversy and extensive discussions, especially in the Arab world since the 2011 events. The absence of a theoretical background of citizenship in these countries was the gateway to unrest, acts of violence, extremism and terrorism.
Academics and researchers believe that the Arab and Islamic culture should not copy Western political concepts. Some Arab experiences have proven that Western concepts have their equivalents in some Arab traditional societies.
Some Arab and Gulf political practices do not abide by modern Western political concepts, such as democracy. Arab countries, with their human and cultural experience, have created their own model of modern political concepts.
In the UAE, there is a consultative governance model. It is a model based on authentic Arab heritage. Communication between the ruler and its people is at the heart of this model. The Emirati society has strict rules and standards defining relations and interactions among its members. The evergrowing Emirati society demands a model that ensures respect and communication.
Citizenship, as discussed in the contemporary political literature, is a developed Western concept. It is undoubtedly the cornerstone of allegiance and belonging to the homeland. It guarantees social cohesion by promoting values (equality, justice and freedom) that constitute the basis of a modern political process in contemporary societies. Legislation in developed countries guarantees justice and equality among its members. Both humanitarian and political levels agree on this. Some Arab countries have developed a model of citizenship based on national values, heritage and culture – a model that is not less effective than that of the one developed in Western societies.
Since 1971, concepts of justice and freedom have been principles and pillars of the State. The Emirati society is well aware of that the State doesn’t opt for discrimination against expatriates. And it cannot favor one citizen over another.
The ‘bone of the neck’ is the Emirati basis for citizenship. While offering his condolences to an Emirati martyr, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, said “you, and your children are like the bone of the neck”. He confirmed that his relationship with his people is strong. The Emirati leadership sees its people as a family, based on the ‘bone of the neck’ standard.
Only those who lived in the UAE can understand what the expression ‘bone of the neck’ means. In the UAE, there is a strong bond between the leadership and its people, both at the political and social levels. The expression can reflect this bond. His Highness strongly considers his people as the ‘bone of the neck’. This expression surpasses the concept of citizenship. In the UAE, actions speak louder than words. The Emiratis are a precious wealth. His Highness sets a policy that provides better living conditions for its people. The wise leadership does not exclude expatriates in the UAE. The UAE’s unique model has a civilized vision that exceeds all contemporary politics. Since the establishment of the State on December 2, 1971, the leadership has been working to valorize the human being. His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan is following the steps of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan to achieve a better future for the UAE.
