The United Arab Emirates (UAE) marked its Fourth National Day in 1975 with the issuance of a remarkable set of eight stamps, each celebrating the leaders of the seven emirates and the nation’s unity. This philatelic tribute captures the spirit of the UAE’s federation and the vision of its founding rulers.
The Journey to Union
National Day, celebrated annually on December 2, commemorates the historic unification of the UAE’s emirates in 1971. While Britain declared its intention to withdraw from the region in 1968, the emirates formalized their union three years later, culminating in the establishment of the UAE under the leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
The idea of unity began during a pivotal meeting between Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum on February 18, 1968, in the village of Samih. The result was the eventual union of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah, Ajman, and Umm Al Quwain. Ras Al Khaimah joined the federation in 1972, completing the modern UAE.
The 1975 Fourth National Day Stamp Set
This vibrant set of stamps commemorates both the progress of the UAE and the leadership that made the union possible. Each stamp highlights a specific leader or theme, encapsulating the unity and achievements of the federation:
- 10 fils: Illustrates the nation’s progress with snapshots framed within the UAE’s iconic eagle emblem.
- 35 fils: Sheikh Mohamed bin Hamad Al Sharqi of Fujairah, celebrating the emirate’s contributions to the union.
- 60 fils: Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi of Ajman, emphasizing his leadership and vision.
- 80 fils: Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Mualla of Umm Al Quwain, representing the emirate’s role in the federation.
- 90 fils: Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi of Sharjah, reflecting the emirate’s historical and cultural significance.
- 1 dirham: Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi of Ras Al Khaimah, the final emirate to join the union.
- 1.40 dirhams: Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum of Dubai, a key figure in envisioning the UAE’s modern future.
- 5 dirhams: Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan of Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s first president and the driving force behind the union.
A Philatelic Celebration of Unity
These stamps symbolize the federation’s rapid development and the dedication of its rulers to progress and prosperity. The 10 fils stamp visually captures this transformation, showcasing industrial and urban advancements within the UAE.
The Significance of National Day
The UAE’s National Day does not mark independence from Britain; instead, it celebrates the emirates’ union, a testament to their shared vision and collective ambition. The day is a tribute to the UAE’s founding fathers, who prioritized collaboration over division to create a unified nation.
The House of the Union, where the emirates’ rulers signed the constitution on December 2, 1971, remains a historical landmark and a symbol of this profound moment.
Have you collected any UAE National Day stamps or similar issues celebrating a nation’s unification? Share your finds and stories in the comments below! And don’t forget to subscribe for more philatelic insights into the UAE and beyond.