While today the military of the United Arab Emirates is described admiringly as a 'little Sparta', just 60 years ago the only security forces in the Emirates were the armed retainers of the Ruling Sheikhs and a small British-led, locally-raised Arab force. Using a combination of investment in its nationals, engagement of expatriates and the purchas

Dr Athol Yates works at the Institute for International and Civil Security, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, teaching Emirati security professionals undertaking a Masters Degree in regional and internal security. His research areas include UAE security structures and organisations, notably the UAE Armed Forces, UAE police services, and civil defence agencies.