Dubai and UAE history: from the Creek to union
Before its towers, Dubai was a port city shaped by the Creek. Trade, the sea and infrastructure decisions gave each generation a new chapter.
Archaeological finds point to human activity in the Dubai area thousands of years ago. The Dubai we recognise grew from communities beside the Creek: Deira and Bur Dubai on either bank, shaped by fishing, pearling, boatbuilding and maritime trade. In 1833, a group from Bani Yas led by the Al Maktoum family settled by the Creek. Al Shindagha, Bur Dubai and Deira formed the historic core, while the Creek served as a natural harbour and trade route.
In the 20th century, Deira’s markets and regional trade helped the port grow. Under Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed, the airport, bridges, Port Rashid and Jebel Ali Port joined the city’s infrastructure. Oil was discovered in 1966 and exports began in 1969, bringing new resources; ports, trade, transport and services also shaped Dubai’s diversified economy. Dubai helped form the United Arab Emirates in 1971 and later developed into a global centre for trade, aviation, tourism and services.
History of the United Arab Emirates: from ancient civilisations to union
The UAE’s history is not limited to the country’s formation in 1971. Communities in this land have long been connected to the sea, oases and trade routes; the political union, however, emerged through specific events in the 20th century.
- Early settlements
Archaeological evidence points to human communities in this region in ancient periods, long before modern borders and the present-day state existed.
- Islam reaches the region
According to the UAE’s official historical account, Islam reached the region in the 7th century and shaped its social and cultural life.
- Treaties of the Trucial Coast
Britain signed successive maritime agreements with the sheikhdoms along the Gulf coast. The area later became known as the Trucial Coast.
- Union talks begin
Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum met at Al Samha and discussed cooperation and forming a union.
- The UAE is established
Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah founded the country by signing the provisional constitution. Sheikh Zayed became its first President.
- Ras Al Khaimah joins
Ras Al Khaimah joined the union, completing the federation of seven emirates.
Official sources; last checked: 17 October 2026. UAE official history · Founders of the Union · Dubai Protocol Department: About Dubai
Rulers of Dubai, 1833 to today
- Sheikh Maktoum bin Butti Al Maktoum
Began the Al Maktoum rule and established Dubai’s settlement beside the Creek.
- Sheikh Saeed bin Butti
He was succeeded by Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum.
- Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum
Treaties and regional relations were important during his rule.
- Sheikh Rashid bin Maktoum
He was followed by Sheikh Maktoum bin Hasher, who promoted maritime trade.
- Sheikh Maktoum bin Hasher
Helped expand Dubai’s links with trade and shipping.
- Sheikh Butti bin Sohail
After his death, Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum became ruler.
- Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum
During his long rule, Dubai grew into a more modern city and a regional trading centre.
- Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum
Modern infrastructure, major ports and Dubai’s role in the UAE’s founding in 1971 marked this period.
- Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum
He continued the city’s infrastructure and modernisation programme until January 2006.
- Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum
He became Ruler of Dubai on 4 January 2006. During his rule, the city has expanded its global role in trade, tourism, transport and innovation.
Names and reign dates follow official Dubai sources. Official rulers list · Dubai history