Dubai, UAE
الْإِمَارَات الْعَرَبِيَة الْمُتَحِدَة

Dar al Etihad, Dubai, UAE — January 12, 2023
‘Dar Al Etihad’, which is Arabic for The Union House is the official birthplace of the United Arab Emirates and a building of great national significance. On 2nd December 1971, the rulers of the seven emirates of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaima and Fujairah, gathered at this very location to sign the 'Declaration of Union' that resulted in the formation of the United Arab Emirates. Restored to its original 1970s appearance, the Union House was a part of the summer residence of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, which was then known as 'Dar Al Dafiya' or Guest Residence. Originally used by the ruler of Dubai to conduct meetings and host guests, it wasn’t until the rulers of the Emirates sat at the circular table here to sign the declaration, that it became a historic symbol of unity. Text credit: artsandculture.com