The History of the United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates has a long and rich history connected to trade and Islam, which arrived in the region in the year 630 AD. Because of its location between Europe and the Far East, the area attracted traders from India and China. European powers like the Portuguese, Dutch, and British also valued this strategic position.

While European powers focused on controlling the coastlines, Bedouin tribes lived inland, especially in the deserts of Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Abu Dhabi became a key center in the region.

The Trucial States Era

In the 1800s, the British signed several agreements with the local Emirates. These agreements created a group of territories known as the “Trucial States.” The Emirates agreed not to give up land to any country except the UK and not to deal with foreign governments without British approval. In return, the British promised to protect the coastal areas and help in case of attacks.

During this time, the pearling industry was very important. It gave jobs and income to many people in the Gulf region. Many families worked in pearling during the summer and took care of date farms in the winter. However, in the 1920s and 1930s, the industry declined due to the global economic crisis and the invention of cultured pearls in Japan.

Discovery of Oil and Development

In the 1930s, oil companies started to explore the land. In 1962, Abu Dhabi exported its first shipment of crude oil. This marked the start of economic growth. In 1966, HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan became the Ruler of Abu Dhabi. He used oil revenue to build the country’s infrastructure — schools, hospitals, homes, and roads.

Sheikh Zayed also increased Abu Dhabi’s support for the Trucial States Development Fund. At the same time, HH Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum of Dubai shifted focus from pearling to trade and shipping. When Dubai began exporting oil in 1969, Sheikh Rashid used the money to improve services and the quality of life for his people.

Formation of the UAE

In 1968, Britain announced it would leave the Arabian Gulf. Sheikh Zayed quickly worked to bring the Emirates together. Along with Sheikh Rashid, he proposed forming a federation that would include the seven Emirates, as well as Qatar and Bahrain.

On 2 December 1971, six Emirates — Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah — joined together to form the United Arab Emirates. The seventh Emirate, Ras Al Khaimah, joined in early 1972.

Since then, the UAE has developed a strong national identity. The country’s political system blends its traditional roots with modern governance, ensuring its culture and heritage are preserved while continuing to grow.