THE BIRTH OF THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

   The declaration of the formation of the United Arab Emirates on the 2nd of December, 1971, was a great event in the history of the area, because it meant unity and strength for the Arab Nation.

    Before the declaration of the union, the rulers of the country took many measures that fulfilled the hopes of the people and achieved their expectations.

    In February 1968, the rulers of Abu Dhabi and Dubai held a meeting to discuss unity between their two emirates. The meeting was followed by a call to the rulers of the other emirates in the Gulf to meet together and dixcuss the issue of unity.

    The rulers of the seven emirates answered the call and they were joined by the rulers of Bahrain and Qatar.

    In July 1971, the rulers of six emirates met in Dubai and, according to the wishes of the people, decided to set up a united state. Meanwhile, Qatar and Bahrain announced their independence.

    On the second of December 1971, the United Arab Emirates was announced and its temporary constitution organized the state; its authorities and its type of rule. On the same day, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al-Nahyan was elected President of the country, and His Highness Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al-Maktoum was elected Vice-president.

    In February 1972, the R.A.K. emirate joined the Union, so the UAE now comprises seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al-Khaimah, Umm Al-Quwain.