As we celebrate the UAE's 50th National Day, it is key to look back into the past to see how far the UAE and its Emirates have come since gaining independence. All the achievements and progress were made possible by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founder of the Nation. Here is a look back at the life of Sheikh Zayed and all that he has accomplished for the UAE.
Sheikh Zayed was born in 1918 when the Emirates of the UAE were called the Trucial States. The Trucial States were the various Sheikhdoms that signed protective treaties with the British government from 1820 to 1892.
The youngest child of Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan's four sons, Sheikh Zayed was born when the Emirate of Abu Dhabi was not fully developed and spent time with the people, gaining knowledge from their lives.
He was appointed governor of the Eastern Region of Abu Dhabi in 1946 and in 1958 when oil was discovered in the UAE and the revenue increased, Sheikh Zayed helped build the infrastructure of Abu Dhbai for the people.
In 1966, Sheikh Zayed succeeded his brother, Sheikh Shakhbut bin Sultan Al Nahyan and became the ruler of Abu Dhabi. Under Sheikh Zayed's leadership, the traditions and culture were preserved while also developing in a modern way.
When the British government decided to withdraw from the Trucial States by 1971, Sheikh Zayed along with Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the then ruler of Dubai, came together and invited the other Trucial States to join the Federation of nine Emirates.
Qatar and Bahrain decided to form individual countries while Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah joined Abu Dhabi and Dubai in signing the treaty.
Ras Al Khaimah joined the union that formed the United Arab Emirates in February 1972.
On 2 December 1971, the United Arab Emirates was formed with Sheikh Zayed appointed as the President of the UAE.
With Sheikh Zayed as the President, the UAE was developed further with roads constructed as well as hospitals and schools built during his first year of power.
Sheikh Zayed was known for his stance on tolerance as well as for his care to conserve the environment.
His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE succeeded Sheikh Zayed after his death in 2004 and has since left behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.