emir

Emir, also spelled amir, is a title of leadership in the Arabic-speaking and broader Islamic world. Derived from the Arabic word amir meaning commander or leader, it has historically signified a ruler, prince, or military commander. An emir typically governs an emirate, a state or territory, and the term gives rise to the compound emirate to designate such a polity.

Spelling variations: English transliteration varies; amir is common in Persian, Urdu, and Turkish contexts, while emir and amir are used interchangeably. The phrase emir al-mu'minin, or Commander of the Faithful, has been used for caliphal or analogous leaders.

Geographic and historical usage: The title was widely used across the Islamic world, including the Iberian Peninsula, North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia. Medieval emirates arose under various dynasties; the Emirate of Córdoba is a well-known example in al-Andalus. In modern times, some states retain the title for their national rulers.

Contemporary usage: Kuwait is ruled by an Emir, a position currently held by Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. Qatar is ruled by an Emir, currently Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates, each governed by its own emir, with the collective leadership forming the Federal Supreme Council; the head of state is the president, typically the ruler of Abu Dhabi. In everyday usage, emir also appears as a personal name or surname in Arabic-speaking and Muslim communities.