The United Arab Emirates has seen itself transform from the Trucial States in 1820, to the Federation that was formed, post-independence from Britain, in December 1971 by Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al Quywayan Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah. The Federation, United Arab Emirates, has witnessed tremendous progress from the days of the Trucial States to becoming one the most admired young countries, and a favored destination of ambitious businesses and individuals.
UAE owes this it’s amazing development to the bold foresightedness and imaginative leadership of its founding father, H.H the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nayhan. A much loved visionary, he perceived the challenges and growth opportunities that came with the discovery of oil in 1950 and the first oil exports from Abu Dhabi in 1962. His futuristic and gracious approach not only helped incorporate new ideas into traditional frameworks of governance in the UAE but also made him known as a messenger of peace and enlightenment in the Muslim world. He also built close strategic ties with the West. UAE today has become a financial, cultural and sports hub in the international community. It is the second largest economy in the GCC (Gulf Co-Operation Council) and the fifth largest exporter of oil world-wide with proven oil reserves for 100 years.
The economy that was initially built on oil revenues has now diversified into Tourism, Real estate, and Trading. From building some of the most iconic structures and world class airports to hosting exhibitions, world class cricket, tennis and golf tournaments and the prestigious Formula 1, UAE, today has it all.