Dubai - Here are some key moments in the UAE's history since 1950
By Web Team
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Published: Sun 18 Oct 2020, 9:24 AM
The United Arab Emirates commemorates its 45th National Day on 2nd December, a day which embodies the Spirit of the Union and celebrates 45 years of great achievements since the federation was established in 1971. The day is a celebration of the high esteem in which we hold the founding President of the UAE, the late Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his fellow founding fathers of the UAE Federation. The path they laid down is now followed by the President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who continues to lead the nation's march to progress and prosperity. The incredible achievements of the UAE in recent years have been made possible due to the directives of the wise leadership of President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Shaikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, as well as His Highness Shaikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and their fellow members of the Supreme Council the Rulers of the Emirates, who have consistently contributed to promoting and developing the country through knowledge and innovation. The UAE ranks among the world's leading nations across several key indicators and has become a true role model for all countries around the world.
Here are some key moments in the UAE's history since 1950:
1950's
Abu Dhabi oil discovered, production began
1952
Seven emirates formed council to promote increased cooperation
1962
First oil is exported
1963
Maktoum Bridge became first bridge built across Dubai Creek
1965
Clocktower Roundabout was built
1966
Oil discovered off coast of Dubai
1967
Shindagha Tunnel was built
1971
UAE joined Arab League Establishment of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC). Inauguration of the New Dubai International Airport.
1972
Inauguration of Rashid Hospital in Dubai
1973
Introduction of the UAE Dirham
1975
Establishment of UAE's first cement factory in Ras Al Khaimah. Inauguration of Sharjah International Airport.
1976
Establishment of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA). Establishment of Emirates Telecommunications Corporation (Etisalat). Establishment of Sharjah Ports Authority. Inauguration of Ras Al Khaimah International Airport.
1979
Establishment of Dubai Aluminum Company.
1981
Gulf Cooperation Council formed, UAE was founding member
1982
Opening of Abu Dhabi International Airport. 1983 Inauguration of Dubai Hospital. Establishment of the Red Crescent Authority.
1984
Establishment of International Petroleum Investment Company.
1985
Establishment of Jebel Ali Free Zone Launch of Emirates Airlines.
1986
Establishment of International Petroleum Investment Company.
1987
Establishment of Fujairah Free Zone. Inauguration of Fujairah International Airport.
1988
Establishment of Ajman and Um Al Quwain Free Zones.
1989
Inauguration of the Dubai Airshow.
1990
Establishment of National blood transfusion program.
1991
Establishment of Al Qassimi Hospital in Sharjah. Inauguration of Emirates Aviation College.
1992
Establishment of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA).
1994
Inauguration of Al Ain International Airport.
1996
Establishment of Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah Free Zones.
1998
Establishment of Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority (ADWEA).
1999
Burj Al Arab, tallest hotel in world, opened Inauguration of operations of Ajman Port.
2000
Establishment of Dubai Financial Market
2001
Frst satellite in the Boeing GEM series, Thuraya 1 launched
2002
Freehold property market opened up to foreigners
2003
Establishment of Telecommunications Regulatory Authority. Establishment of Etihad Airways.
2004
Establishment of Dubai International Financial Center.
2005
Establishment of Ministry of Environment and Water. Shaikh Khalifa announced that half of the members of the Federal National Council (FNC) would be indirectly elected.
2006
First national elections held Establishment of Dubai Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). Rebranding of Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (du). Establishment of RAK Airways.
2007
Unveiling of Abu Dhabi's 2030 Economic Vision. First residents moved onto Palm Jumerirah
2008
First World Future Energy Summit held in Abu Dhabi. Establishment of Noor Dubai.
2009
Dubai Metro opened, first public mass-transit system in region Completion of Sheikh Khalifa Bridge and Yas Marina Circuit. UAE chosen as the headquarters of the IRENA
2010
Burj Khalifa , world's tallest building opened Al Maktoum International Airport Inaugurated Ferrari World opens in Abu Dhabi