National Digital Intelligence Platform

United Arab Emirates

H-ERA-1

Union & Nation Building

The formation of the UAE federation and establishment of national institutions (1971-1976)

Emirates

7

Founding Fathers

7

Milestones

32

Achievements

5 The UAE Federation

Formation and foundational principles

About the Federation

The United Arab Emirates was formed on December 2, 1971, when six emirates declared independence and united. Ras Al Khaimah joined on February 10, 1972, completing the seven-emirate federation. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was elected the nation's first President.

December 2, 1971

National Day - Federation Day

Key Achievements

Foundational accomplishments

Federal Constitution

Permanent constitution adopted in 1972

Federal National Council

First consultative assembly established

National Identity

UAE passport, citizenship, and anthem created

Defense Unity

Unified armed forces established

International Recognition

UN membership and global diplomacy

Nation Building Timeline

Progress milestones

December 2, 1971: UAE Federation formed - 6 emirates at Union House, Dubai

December 2, 1971: Sheikh Zayed elected first President; Sheikh Rashid Vice President

December 2, 1971: Flag designed by Abdullah Mohammed Al Maainah (19 years old)

December 2, 1971: Jordan first to recognize UAE; Arab League 2nd; UN 3rd (132nd member)

February 10, 1972: Ras Al Khaimah joins - complete seven-emirate federation

July 18, 1971: Constitution signed (152 Articles); became permanent 1996

1971-2004: Sheikh Zayed serves 33 years as President

November 30, 1971: Iran seizes Abu Musa and Tunb islands; 3 police killed

December 9, 1971: UAE raises islands issue at UN Security Council

1974: Treaty of Jeddah - Saudi-UAE border delimitation