Leaders from the six Emirates of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah, and Ajman met in Dubai on this day 50 years ago to form the world’s first Arab federation. Three months later, in 1972, the seventh emirate, Ras Al Khaimah, joined the alliance, officially establishing the modern-day United Arab Emirates.
Although the United Arab Emirates is a relatively new country, the mostly arid territory on the Persian Gulf’s shore has a long history of agriculture and fishing. The union of the UAE’s independent emirates has allowed the country to tap into its natural riches, altering the country over the last 50 years.
Traditionally, red, white, and green, the colours of the national flag portrayed in the Doodle artwork, are used to decorate both private and public structures. Many of the UAE’s more than 200 nationalities celebrate the country’s successes while looking ahead to the future.
Happy National Day, United Arab Emirates!