The United Arab Emirates (UAE) became a federation in 1971. The UAE federation consists of seven states or emirates. Originally, there were only six emirates: Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Dubai, Umm Al-Quwain, Ajman, and Fujairah. Ras Al Khaimah joined the federation a year later, in 1972, to become the seventh emirate.
Combined, the seven emirates offer an unmatched travel destination and an incredible place to live. Each emirate brings something unique that contributes to the splendor of the UAE.