History Of The UAE: From A Pearl Diving Settlement To A Modern Nation
When we think of the UAE, we think of sandy deserts, or we think of it as a developed nation that we know now. However, the origin story of this amazing nation is as surprising as a pearl emerging from an oyster. Its origins are often filled with mystery, and their paths to greatness were often met with challenges and setbacks. So, in this blog, we will be talking about the origin and Ancient history of the UAE.
United Arab Emirates History: The Ultimate Timeline!
The majestic United Arab Emirates that stands tall in front of us today was once just a tribal settlement. Read further to look at the timeline where the UAE goes from just a tribal settlement to a full-blown tourism and industrial hub that it is today!
The Great Gazelle Chase
In the beginning, the UAE was just a tribal and communal settlement where the primary inhabitants of the area were the Bani Yas and Al Blu Falah. They had to deal with a harsh environment, as the area was 80% desert. Until one day, a group of desert communities decided to chase a Gazelle down! At this point, they were far from home, among the sandy dunes, unable to catch the gazelle. After hours of chasing, the Gazelle led the hunter to something unbelievable! IT WAS A LONELY ISLAND WITH FRESHWATER!
The New Settlement
For the communities living in the desert, water is life. So, the tribal communities moved from the deep and harsh desert to this amazing island with fresh water. With the growing population of the tribal communities, this island became the headquarters. They named it ‘Abu Dhabi’ or ‘Father of Gazelles’.
New Trading Opportunities
Gradually, with the growing population, the island gave the inhabitants access to the sea. They started diving for pearls. Turning the sea into a new trading opportunity, they started selling these premium-quality pearls. Along with that, they started building ships and ports. All of this development attracted businesses, wealth, and international attention.
The Oil Boom: A New Era for the UAE
During the pre-oil era in this region, the inhabitants relied on professions like fishing, hunting and farming dates. In the 1950s, Oil was discovered in the Umm Shaif field during offshore and onshore exploration efforts. This discovery proved to be a game-changer in the history of the UAE, as a lot of industries from countries like the US and UK started to show their interest in crude Oil.
Due to this, the country started observing various infrastructural projects that took place in the 20th century. Some of the major developments were Dubai International Airport (opened in 1971), Jebel Ali port (opened in 1979), and Emirates Airlines (launched in 1985).
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From Desert to A World-Class Destination
The establishment of the ports, airports, and airlines marked the beginning of a nation which would capture the eyes of all the travel enthusiasts. By now, the UAE was only known for its deserts and Oil. The leaders wanted to establish this country as the global hub for tourism, real estate, and luxury. So, they started to take on projects for major landmarks and attractions like Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, etc. In the 21st century, all of the Emirates have seen significant development, which attracts tourists from all over the world.
What UAE Looks Like Today?
The UAE that we all see and visit is a growing, vibrant and modern nation which has observed major changes since its beginning. However, this city is constantly growing and developing. With Vision 2030, cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi plan on becoming hyper-connected, AI-driven cities. Not only that, but they also focus on seamless integration between the physical and digital world.
Conclusion
Whenever you are booking your trip to the UAE, make sure that you know about the great development that this city has gone through. This would, quite literally, change your perspective. Plan your UAE trip with Travel Saga Tourism. With our wide variety of cultural tours, you will be able to learn about the history of this amazing nation in an interesting way. So, stop overthinking and visit Dubai TODAY!
People Also Ask
Q. What was the area known as before the formation of the UAE?
Before the formation of the UAE, the areas used to be known as the Trucial states or Trucial Sheikhdoms.
Q. How far back does human settlement in the UAE date?
The human settlement in the UAE dates back to 125,000 years. This assumption is made on the basis of the archaeological evidence.
Q. Which ancient civilisations influenced the region now known as the UAE?
Mesopotamia, Persia, and the Indus Valley civilisation are some of the civilisations that influenced the region, which is presently known as the UAE.
Q. When did the UAE become an independent federation?
The UAE finally became an independent Federation on 2nd December 1971. Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, and Fujairah were the 6 emirates that joined the UAE. Ras Al Khaimah joined the UAE in 1972.
Q. Who were the founding fathers of the UAE?
The founding fathers of the UAE were Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan of Abu Dhabi (first president of the UAE), and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum of Dubai.
Q. How did the discovery of oil change the UAE?
The UAE was a country which started out as a pearl diving settlement. However, with the discovery of Oil, it in turn attracted industrialists from all over the world. This led the UAE to become a wealthy and modern nation.
Q. What ancient heritage sites reflect the historical depth of the UAE?
Some of the notable ancient heritage sites that reflect the historical depth of the UAE are Qasr Al Hosn, the oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi, and the Cultural Sites of Al Ain Oasis.
