The “Union Covenant” day, celebrated on July 18, marks a pivotal moment in the history of the United Arab Emirates. This day in 1971 witnessed the signing of the Union document by the founding fathers, laying the groundwork for the establishment of the nation on December 2 of the same year, creating a comprehensive civilizational project.
This report explores the insights of several thinkers, researchers, and cultural figures regarding the cultural and intellectual impact of the Union Covenant day and its ongoing role in inspiring creativity and fostering national identity.
Jamal bin Huwaireb, the Executive Director of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Knowledge, states: “The Union Covenant day serves as a foundational historical milestone that redefined the UAE’s intellectual identity. This day paved the way for the United Arab Emirates to emerge as a unified entity, encapsulating a comprehensive knowledge vision that became the cornerstone of an unprecedented cultural and developmental project.”
The gathering of the founding fathers was a decisive moment that cannot be separated from its intellectual and literary context. The intellectual impact of the Union is evidenced in the emergence of a collective national intellectual and literary identity, reflected in UAE literary works, poetry, and novels that narrate the cohesion among the seven emirates; terms like “union,” “loyalty,” and “heritage” have become luminous symbols in creative texts, carrying deeper meanings than mere linguistic expressions.
He added: “The influence of this foundational moment extends beyond its political context, serving as a launchpad for creators towards unique horizons. Emirati artists now carry a distinct identity, drawing inspiration from the story of the Union which manifests in various forms of art including painting, theater, and literature.”
Moreover, the knowledge and development institutions established under the Union catalyzed a knowledge movement, positioning the UAE as a beacon of intellectual illumination. As we commemorate the anniversary of this enduring covenant, we recognize that the spirit of unity remains vibrant in every literary, creative, and intellectual endeavor; it is not merely a memory but a perpetual source of inspiration, reminding us that knowledge and creativity are fundamental pillars of a civilizational framework.”
Media Reflections
Ali Obaid Al Hemali, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Cultural and Science Seminar, highlighted that the glorious “Union Covenant” day reflects the cultural and literary significance of the historic meeting, which set the stage for the establishment of the UAE.
The prelude to this day was one of the most significant inspirations that propelled creativity among intellectuals and writers in the UAE, whose thoughts and writings paved the way for this esteemed unified entity.
This was evident in the poetry crafted by poets of that era and the articles penned by writers and intellectuals in local newspapers and magazines, with the influence of that day reaching beyond the announcement of the Union on December 2, 1971.
Al Hemali further noted that the symbolism of this historical moment was rooted in the formation of a national identity shaped by the vision of the state’s founders and leaders, who have carried on the journey for over fifty years.
This identity embodies Arab Islamic humanitarian values, drawing from the traits exemplified by the founders and the Emirati people themselves—values rooted in tolerance, coexistence, and a rejection of racism, animosity, violence, and any forms of discrimination among people based on religion, race, or other distinctions.
He added: “On this ‘Union Covenant’ day, Emirati writers, artists, and intellectuals reaffirm their commitment to the ideals and values instilled in them by the UAE’s leaders, ensuring that our fabric remains intact and our flag continues to wave high in the sky of glory.”
Foundational Meetings
Historical researcher Dr. Saif bin Aboud Al Budaiwi, specializing in Gulf history, noted that all meetings that planned the Union took place in Dubai, hosted by the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, may he rest in peace. This includes the crucial nine-member meeting from February 25-27, 1968, as well as the meeting on July 18, 1971, which marked the fulfillment of the covenant.
The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum maintained continuous communication, both personally and through representatives, to achieve this noble national goal. May Allah have mercy on them and all founding fathers.
Dr. Al Budaiwi added that Sheikh Zayed took the initiative and worked with determination, implementing several key steps toward the establishment of a strong and cohesive United Arab Emirates.
The initial steps began in May 1971, when a delegation comprising Ahmed Khalifa Suwaidi, Najm Al Din Hamudi, and Adnan Bajaji was sent to visit the rulers of the emirates and explain the necessity of forming a Union after the withdrawal of British forces at the end of 1971.
He continued: “The second issue involved discussions with Britain, particularly during meetings with British Prime Minister Edward Heath and Foreign Secretary Sir Alec Douglas-Home.”
The third crucial aspect was the continuous delegations to Abu Dhabi, expressing the desire for unity with Abu Dhabi.
Dr. Al Budaiwi emphasized that Sheikh Zayed was keen to assure everyone that Abu Dhabi was resolutely determined to move towards Union, employing its efforts and resources to achieve this goal. Additionally, he initiated several vital measures including:
1. Establishing the Cabinet chaired by the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, who became the first Prime Minister as well as the Minister of Defense and Finance of Abu Dhabi.
2. Sending delegations to various Arab countries and the Arab League to facilitate international recognition of the new state.
3. Inviting delegations from the emirates to a decisive meeting to discuss the establishment of the Union.
These efforts culminated in the “Union Covenant,” where rulers convened in Dubai from July 10 to July 18, 1971, culminating in the proposal for the six-member Union, as Ras Al Khaimah was not able to join at that time due to specific circumstances.
The Federal Experience
Dr. Abdullah Ali Al Tabour elaborated on the significance of this day: “The Union represents the unity of humanity and geography, within a cooperative framework grounded in love and camaraderie. The spirit ignited by the federal experience that amalgamated in the Union is deeply rooted in ancient cultures brought forth by societal conditions and the details of life.”
This has created over centuries a cultural and heritage legacy in harmony with the spirit of unity that is deeply embedded in the roots of relationships that enrich the common traits and values of this community, which is integrated within a geographical context that birthed its identity and defining features, as well as its historical and cultural heritage.
This heritage has been handed down through generations over the centuries. Evidence of this is that the geographical context shapes the social realities experienced by the UAE people in the past.
He added: “Thus, the Union or unity in the UAE is deeply rooted and longstanding. What happened under the visionary leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was a transformation of the inherent unitary legacy and culture that emerged from the authentic Emirati community into a federal entity that established the United Arab Emirates, which stands today as a timeless and unique example of cultural dynamism and a visionary framework that has shaped the national identity while also cementing the value of Union as a historical heritage that inspired the creation of the dream we see today—a dream that has positioned the UAE as a distinguished global leader.”
Ultimately, the Emirati people have been of great support to the leadership in establishing this Union, which has yielded inspiring cultural outcomes symbolizing human connections and spirits of integration, solidifying the pillars of love, openness, solidarity, creation, and work in its most beautiful form. This environment has further nurtured creativity, leading to the production of exceptional works rich in value and content.