Abu Dhabi

Explore the rich history of Abu Dhabi through a detailed timeline, showcasing its transformation from a quiet fishing village to a vibrant, modern metropolis. Discover key events, milestones, and cultural shifts that have shaped Abu Dhabi into the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, highlighting its economic growth, architectural developments, and significant contributions to the region.

28 juli 1958

2 december 1971

3 maart 1996

2 november 2004

4 november 2009

11 november 2017

15 oktober 2018

2 december 2019

13 mei 2020

9 februari 2021

28juli
1958
28 July 1958

First Oil Shipment from Abu Dhabi

On July 28, 1958, Abu Dhabi exported its first shipment of crude oil, marking a transformation for the emirate from a pearling center into a modern economy driven by natural resources. The discovery of oil significantly altered the region's economic landscape, ushering in rapid development, urbanization, and modernization. The vast revenues generated from oil exports fueled infrastructure projects, education, healthcare, and economic diversification initiatives not just in Abu Dhabi, but across the nascent structures of what would become the UAE. This turned Abu Dhabi into a key player in the global energy market.

02december
1971
02 December 1971

Formation of the United Arab Emirates

On December 2, 1971, Abu Dhabi became the capital of the newly formed United Arab Emirates (UAE), a federation of six emirates which later became seven with the inclusion of Ras Al Khaimah in February 1972. The event marked the end of British protection and the beginning of a new era of independence and cooperation among the emirates. This historic moment was the result of extensive negotiations and agreements among the rulers of the emirates, particularly the visionary leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Ruler of Abu Dhabi, who was instrumental in unifying the emirates into a single nation. The creation of the UAE allowed for coordinated development and a unified foreign policy.

03maart
1996
03 March 1996

Launch of Al Jazeera Satellite Channel

On March 3, 1996, Al Jazeera, a satellite television network, was launched. Though primarily based in Doha, Qatar, its significant influence on media across the Gulf region, including Abu Dhabi and the UAE, cannot be overstated. Al Jazeera set a new standard for broadcasting in the Middle East, offering a platform for divergent views and international news reporting previously unavailable in the region. The launch heralded a new era of media landscapes, impacting state policies, public discourse, and international perceptions of Arab nations, including Abu Dhabi, which adjusted its media within the UAE following Al Jazeera's success.

02november
2004
02 November 2004

Death of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan

Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father and the first President of the United Arab Emirates who played a pivotal role in creating the nation in 1971, passed away on November 2, 2004. His death marked the end of an era for the UAE, as Sheikh Zayed was revered for his leadership, vision, and dedication to building a prosperous and forward-looking country. His tenure saw massive development of Abu Dhabi's infrastructure, economy, and international profile. Under his leadership, Abu Dhabi and the UAE transformed from a collection of desert sheikhdoms into a modern, affluent state. Following his death, his eldest son, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, took over the presidency.

04november
2009
04 November 2009

Opening of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai

Although the iconic Burj Khalifa is located in Dubai, its development and construction were closely tied with the government of Abu Dhabi. On November 4, 2009, at the official opening ceremony, the tower was renamed from "Burj Dubai" to "Burj Khalifa" in honor of Abu Dhabi's ruler and president of the UAE, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, after Abu Dhabi bailed out Dubai financially during the 2009 financial crisis. This renaming acknowledged Abu Dhabi's critical support that enabled the completion of the world's tallest building at that time. The tower stands as a symbol of the UAE's rapid growth and ambition.

11november
2017
11 November 2017

Inauguration of the Louvre Abu Dhabi

The Louvre Abu Dhabi, a landmark art and civilization museum located on Saadiyat Island, officially opened to the public on November 11, 2017. The museum, a collaboration between the United Arab Emirates and France, was designed by renowned architect Jean Nouvel. It houses artworks and artifacts spanning various civilizations and history, representing a universal approach to art and culture. The museum's construction was part of an ambitious plan to transform Abu Dhabi into a global cultural leader and a significant center for arts and culture in the Middle East. It signifies Abu Dhabi's commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding and dialogue.

15oktober
2018
15 October 2018

Launch of the Hope Probe Mission

On October 15, 2018, the UAE's Mars Mission, known as the Hope Probe, was officially launched. Abu Dhabi was critical in the development and strategic planning of the mission. The Hope Probe marks the UAE's first attempt to reach another planet and aims to study Martian atmosphere and climate. This mission places the UAE, with Abu Dhabi at the helm, among the nations capable of reaching Mars, symbolizing its emergence in space exploration and scientific innovation. The project also underscores the ambition to inspire the next generation of Emiratis in science and technology.

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02december
2019
02 December 2019

Etihad Museum Inaugurated

On December 2, 2019, the inauguration of the Etihad Museum took place to commemorate the 48th National Day of the United Arab Emirates. Although the museum is located in Dubai, it holds significant cultural relevance for Abu Dhabi as the UAE's capital and much of its history is intertwined with the capital's political leadership. The museum focuses on the history of the UAE, particularly the formation of the federation in 1971, and showcases documents, exhibitions, and artifacts from the nation's founding moments. The museum also stands as a tribute to the rulers who founded the UAE, including Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

13mei
2020
13 May 2020

Barakah Nuclear Power Plant Activation

On May 13, 2020, the Barakah nuclear power plant's first reactor in Abu Dhabi reached 100% power for the first time. This milestone marked a significant achievement for the UAE as the first Arab country to develop a nuclear power plant. Located in the Al Dhafra region, the plant represents Abu Dhabi's commitment to diversifying its energy sources and reducing its reliance on oil, aiming for more sustainable energy alternatives. The plant is expected to supply up to 25% of the UAE’s energy once all reactors are operational, setting a precedent in the region for nuclear energy utilization.

09februari
2021
09 February 2021

Hope Probe Enters Mars Orbit

On February 9, 2021, the UAE's Hope Probe successfully entered the orbit of Mars, making the UAE the fifth nation to reach the Red Planet. With Abu Dhabi playing a crucial role in the logistical and scientific facets of the mission, this achievement demonstrated a significant scientific milestone for the UAE and highlighted its growing capabilities in space exploration. The Hope Probe's arrival was celebrated as a testament to years of hard work and determination in developing expertise in space science. The mission is a key part of the UAE's broader objectives to advance education and innovation in science and engineering.

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Frequently asked questions about Abu Dhabi

Discover commonly asked questions regarding Abu Dhabi. If there are any questions we may have overlooked, please let us know.

How did Abu Dhabi transform after the discovery of oil?

When was Abu Dhabi first established?

What significant event happened in Abu Dhabi in 1958?

When did Abu Dhabi become the capital of the United Arab Emirates?