Examined sex differences in the prevalence of depressive disorders in an Arab community. 1,394 subjects (Ss; aged 18-70 yrs) were sampled from the general population in Al-Ain city. All Ss were interviewed and assessed with the modified version of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview and a socio-demographic questionnaire. Lifetime male and female prevalence rates were estimated. Multivariate logistic regression of various socio-demographic variables was carried out to assess independent risk factors for depression. Statistical significance of sex differences in rates of depression by various groups were also assessed. Results show that lifetime rates in males and females were 2.8 and 10.3%, respectively. Sex, life events, chronic difficulties and to a certain extent age were found to be risk factors for depression. The prevalence rates of depression were higher in females in all above categories but such differences reached statistical significance in age category before 55, regardless of marital status, when the number of children is 4+ ,and among those exposed to recent life events and chronic difficulties. Females were found to to be more exposed to chronic life difficulties but only depressed females were significantly more subjected to recent life events.