Office of the Historian

A Guide to the United States’ History of Recognition, Diplomatic, and Consular Relations, by Country, since 1776: The United Arab Emirates

Summary

Prior to 1971, the Trucial Sheikdoms of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharja, Ajman, Umm al-Qaiwain, Fujairah, and Ras al-Khaimah were under a British protectorate. As such, the United States had a very limited relationship with the sheikdoms. Relations became more regular when these sheikdoms formed the United Arab Emirates and gained independence in 1971. Since then, relations became more regular and have grown stronger over the years.

Modern Flag of The United Arab Emirates

Recognition

U.S. Recognition of the United Arab Emirates’ Independence, 1971.

The UAE declared its independence on December 2, 1971, following the completion of treaties with Great Britain. The United States recognized the United Arab Emirates the next day on December 3.

Diplomatic Relations

Establishment of Diplomatic Relations, 1972.

Diplomatic relations were established on March 20, 1972, when American Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary William A. Stoltzfus, Jr. presented his credentials to the government of the United Arab Emirates. Stoltzfus was also accredited to a number of other Persian Gulf states and he resided in Kuwait.

Establishment of the American Embassy in the United Arab Emirates, 1974.

The United States Embassy in Abu Dhabi was established on June 24, 1974, when the first American Ambassador in residence, Michael Edmund Sterner, presented his credentials to United Arab Emirates’ officials.

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