How the UAE was formed - in pictures

Sheikh Zayed, the Founding Father, and other Rulers gather around the UAE flag at Union House in Dubai on December 2, 1971. It was on this day that the UAE was officially formed. Photo: Alittihad
Sheikh Zayed, the Founding Father, and other Rulers gather around the UAE flag at Union House in Dubai on December 2, 1971. It was on this day that the UAE was officially formed. Photo: Alittihad
Sheikh Zayed and the Rulers of Sharjah, Ajman, Dubai and Fujairah at Union House in Dubai on December 2, 1971. The Crown Prince of Umm Al Quwain attended the ceremony instead of the Ruler, who was unwell.
Sheikh Zayed and the Rulers of Sharjah, Ajman, Dubai and Fujairah at Union House in Dubai on December 2, 1971. The Crown Prince of Umm Al Quwain attended the ceremony instead of the Ruler, who was unwell.
The signing at Union House in Dubai on December 2, 1971. Sheikh Zayed reads the Treaty of Friendship between the UAE and Britain, watched by Sir Geoffrey Arthur, who sent cables home that detailed his recollection of proceedings.
The signing at Union House in Dubai on December 2, 1971. Sheikh Zayed reads the Treaty of Friendship between the UAE and Britain, watched by Sir Geoffrey Arthur, who sent cables home that detailed his recollection of proceedings.
The signing of the Treaty of Friendship and speech at Union House, Dubai on December 2, 1971. Photo: Alittihad
The signing of the Treaty of Friendship and speech at Union House, Dubai on December 2, 1971. Photo: Alittihad
The UAE flag is raised for the first time at the UN on December 9, 1971. Photo: UN
The UAE flag is raised for the first time at the UN on December 9, 1971. Photo: UN
The UAE flag is raised for the first time at the UN on December 9, 1971. Photo: UN
The UAE flag is raised for the first time at the UN on December 9, 1971. Photo: UN