Neither side truly stood out in an even contest, but a hapless defensive error with 22 minutes to go allowed Ali Ahmed Mabkhout to score the winner and set up a semi-final with Qatar.
Although the Socceroos made a lively start, UAE improved as the first half progressed and ultimately crafted the better chances.
UAE's productivity in the final third had little to do with what proved to be the winning goal, however, as Degenek gifted them the chance and Mabkhout took full advantage.
