In 1971, seven emirates came together to form the United Arab Emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah, with Ras AL Khaimah joining soon after. Each emirate retained its identity, yet united under one flag, one federal system and a shared vision for the future. The union, led by the UAE's founding father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan AL Nahyan, was built on principles of stability, long-term development and unity.
