All about the six royal families in the UAE

• Abu Dhabi Royal Family
• Dubai Royal Family
• Sharjah Royal Family
• Ras Al Khaimah Royal Family
• Ajman Royal Family
• Fujairah Royal Family
• Umm Al Quwain Royal Family

The region’s remarkable progress over the years could not have been achieved without the exceptional foresight of the UAE ruling families. Besides serving as the emirate’s rulers, the UAE’s royal families have helped build the country from the ground up and are widely admired for their vision and hard work. And here is MyBayut’s tribute to the royal families of the UAE.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has come a long way since December 1971, when six of the emirates formed a federation. What was once a young country traditionally known for pearl diving and fishing is now a land of opportunity, home to a multicultural population, architectural marvels and world-leading innovation across numerous industries

WHO RULES THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES?

The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah, which six royal families rule. In 1971, the UAE was formed by bringing together six emirates, with Ras Al Khaimah joining the union in 1972.

The UAE President and the head of the state are selected from the rulers of each emirate. The seven Emirs form the Federal Supreme Council – UAE’s highest legislative and executive authority.

Each royal family of the UAE emerged from a different origin, but the royal families of Abu Dhabi and Dubai are the direct descendants of the same tribe. Similarly, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah are ruled by branches of the same UAE royal family tree.

UAE RULING FAMILY: ABU DHABI

• Ruling Family: Al Nahyan
• Descendants of: Bani Yas Tribe (House of Al Falahi)
• Current Ruler: H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan

The capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi, is ruled by the noble Al Nahyan family. This royal family descends from the Bani Yas tribe branch, the House of Al Falahi. The Bani Yas tribe was a powerful familial tribe in ancient Arabia, hailing from Liwa Oasis, who moved to the city in 1793 and settled in the Qasr Al Hosn, one of the oldest buildings in the UAE.

H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan is the current president of the UAE. The Federal Supreme Council elected him after the passing of H.H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan on 13th May 2022 – may he forever rest in peace. All three UAE Presidents, past and present, have come from the Al Nahyan family.

THE PRESIDENT AND RULER OF THE UAE

As a member of the UAE king family, the current President of the UAE is the most influential royal of Abu Dhabi. H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has previously served as the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.

During his tenure, he transformed the military into a high-tech force. The focus has been on training, enhancing organisational structure, promoting defence capacity and utilising strategic planning.

On the international front, he has worked to augment the influence of the UAE. H.H. also maintains a keen interest in poetry and supports many literary and cultural events.

Under the Presidency of H.H. Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the country will be a prominent player on the global stage, with all the UAE’s royal families working toward the nation’s prosperity.

DUBAI ROYAL FAMILY

• Family Name: Al Maktoum
• Descendants: Bani Yas (House of Al Falasi)
• Current Ruler: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum
• Crown Prince: His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Did you know that the royal family of Dubai and Abu Dhabi are related? Like the Abu Dhabi royals, Dubai’s ruling family are descendants of the Bani Yas tribe, only from another branch.

The Bani Yas tribe branched out in 1833, with 800 members of the Al Maktoum family settling on the banks of what is now known as the Dubai Creek. The members of the emirate royal family are credited for putting Dubai on the map, initially as a coastal city famous for fishing and sea trade.

The current ruler of Dubai, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed took over from his brother, H.H. Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, following his death in 2006. He’s responsible for Dubai’s success on a global level, for which he holds a special place in the hearts of his people. He also serves as the UAE’s Vice President and Vice Prime Minister.

The Al Maktoum family has always played a positive role in bringing together the UAE’s royal families.

H.H. SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM

The tremendous economic growth of Dubai and its transformation into a leading trade and tourism hub are primarily due to the vision of the ruling family. Since 2006. H.H. Sheikh Mohammed has introduced and implemented policies that have benefitted the people of the UAE immensely.

Similarly, H.H. has undertaken several philanthropic initiatives in health, education and culture. Moreover, if you aren’t following H.H. Sheikh Mohammed on social media, you’re missing out!

Well-known for being active on his social media accounts, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed has a massive following on Instagram, where he regularly shares Dubai’s achievements and occasionally a glimpse of his beautiful family.

The World’s Greatest Show – Expo 2020 was one of the most astonishing realisations of his dreams and extraordinary vision.

CROWN PRINCE

The Crown Prince of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, certainly influences the lives of Dubai residents. His charity work and fitness initiatives continue to make their mark and inspire residents.

Fondly known as Fazza, the Crown Prince is best known for his love of extreme sports, animals and travelling. Also, a poet, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan, is truly someone to admire! His social profiles don’t just revolve around his adventures and interests; many of his posts promote Dubai and the UAE!

UAE’S ROYAL FAMILIES: SHARJAH

• Family Name: Al Qasimi
• Descendants: Qawasim
• Current Ruler of Sharjah: His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi
• Crown Prince of Sharjah: His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammad Bin Sultan Al Qasimi

The Al Qasimi dynasty became the dominant force by the 18th century when they emerged from Ras Al Khaimah and Qishm (the southern shore of the Arabian Gulf) as a maritime power.

Sharjah used to be one of the wealthiest areas in the region and an important port in the Arabian Gulf. The emirate was subjected to many attacks to gain control of the spice trade on the east coast, but the arrival of the British in the region stabilised the situation.

However, in 1820, peace treaties were finally signed and Sharjah has never looked back since then. The emirate now holds a strong position in the region because of its strong trade, oil and tourism industry.  

Here’s an interesting fact: among the United Arab Emirates royal families, two belong to the Al Qasimi dynasty – Sharjah and RAK.

THE EMIR OF SHARJAH: H.H SHEIKH DR. SULTAN BIN MOHAMMAD AL QASIMI

His Highness grew up having a deeply rooted love for his nation. He developed a strong passion for seeking knowledge and education and taught English Language and Mathematics at the Sharjah Industrial School for two years.

Apart from being a charismatic leader, His Highness is an acclaimed historian and a published writer. His most acclaimed book is the “Myth of Arab Piracy in the Gulf,” and he has published more titles. His biographies “My Early Life” and “Taking The Reins” have been translated into multiple languages.

His love for heritage and culture was reflected in his actions. It started early with the restoration of Al Hisn Fort. In 2010, Heart of Sharjah, a project to revitalise Sharjah’s historic centre, was announced and is scheduled for completion in 2025. Thanks to these and other such initiatives, Sharjah is known as the country’s cultural capital.

The Emir of Sharjah, a member of the UAE royal family tree, strongly focuses on the emirate’s cultural, economic, and social development, which is a resounding testament to the success of the policies implemented.

RAS AL KHAIMAH ROYAL FAMILY

• Family Name: Al Qasimi
• Descendants: Qawasim
• Current Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah: His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi
• Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi

The origins of Ras Al Khaimah’s royal family are the same as Sharjah’s, and now the same family rules both emirates! The Emir of Ras Al Khaimah, H.H. Sheikh Saud, received his Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and Political Science from the University of Michigan.

He was appointed the emirate’s ruler in 2010 after his father’s death. His son, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed, is the Crown Prince and the Deputy Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah.

H.H. SHEIKH SAUD BIN SAQR AL QASIMI

The current ruler of RAK received his early education in his home emirate. Later, he joined the University of Michigan in the US and studied Economics and Political Science. Upon his return, he was appointed the Crown Prince of the emirate, and after the passing away of his father, he stepped forward to become the ruler of RAK.

Under the rule of H.H. Sheikh Saud, RAK has seen tremendous economic growth. The economy has been diversified and many corporations opening businesses in the emirate. This has laid the foundation for success and prosperity for generations to come.

AJMAN ROYAL FAMILY

• Family Name: Al Nuaimi
• Descendants: Al Bu Kharaiban Section
• Current Ruler: His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi
• Crown Prince: His Highness Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi

Ajman may be the UAE’s smallest emirate but it bears great cultural and historical importance. The royal family of Al Nuaimi descends from an Arab tribe whose connections extend to Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The Al Nuaimi family has played a pivotal role in enhancing cooperation between the UAE’s royal families.

EMIR OF AJMAN

H.H. Sheikh Humaid is the tenth ruler of Ajman and a member of the UAE Supreme Council of the Union. The sheikh laid the foundation of progress for this small emirate which evolved from a tiny fishing town into a modern-day metropolis.

He received his initial education in Dubai and then went to Cairo for further studies. Under his able leadership, Ajman has progressed significantly with a keen focus on the economy and education.

His keen eye for Ajman’s educational system led him to establish the renowned Ajman University of Science and Technology, one of the region’s most important educational institutes.

H.H. is a staunch supporter of women’s rights and established the Umm Al Moumineen Women’s Association, the region’s first supportive centre for the women’s movement.

FUJAIRAH ROYAL FAMILY

• Family Name: Al Sharqi
• Descendants: Sharqiyin
• Current Ruler: His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi
• Crown Prince: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi

Fujairah has a rich Islamic history deeply embedded in its roots. Home to one of the oldest mosques in the UAE, this emirate enjoys a strategic location on the map. The land’s rich culture and history of over five centuries are credited to the remains of ancient towers, castles, forts and mosques.

The land is ruled by the Al Sharqi family, who originated from a dominant tribe along the East Coast. Since the rule of H.H. Sheikh Hamad, Fujairah has flourished into a popular tourist destination!

There has been tremendous progress in health and education in the recent past. It wouldn’t be wrong to say that all of UAE’s royal families have worked towards improving these sectors.

RULER OF FUJAIRAH

H.H. Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi is known for expertly representing the UAE at diplomatic and international events. H.H. completed his education at the Military Academy in the UK.

The Ruler of Fujairah is known for his eloquent speaking power and belief in the power of diplomacy. Fujairah has blossomed under his rule as a tourist destination. Plus, a lot of investment has gone into the health, education and construction sectors, which are acknowledged by all.

UMM AL QUWAIN ROYAL FAMILY

• Family Name: Al Mualla
• Descendants: Al Ali Tribe
• Current Ruler: His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla
• Crown Prince: His Highness Sheikh Rashid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla

The founding family was the head of the Al Ali Tribe with 6,750 people up till the 19th century. The tribe originated from Nejd, and the first head was H.H. Sheikh Rashid bin Majid Al Mualla. The tribe later settled in Umm Al Quwain, parts of Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah and Falaj Al Mualla.

The Al Mualla family has built the famous Umm Al Quwain Fort.

THE EMIR OF UMM AL QUWAIN

The current Emir received his degree in Economics from Cairo University. He worked closely with his father and succeeded him as the new Emir in 2009.

Previously, H.H. Sheikh Saud served as the foreign minister for the UAE in 1973 and the Commander of the Umm Al Quwain Emiri Guard in 1977. He had the rank of colonel, while in 1979, he was the head of Umm Al Quwain Royal Court.

He proved his abilities by assisting his father in the matters of the emirates, including overseeing many investment projects and establishing different local enterprises and government entities.

Moreover, he has played a massive role in modernising the government systems in the emirate, making them more user-friendly and linear.

FAQS ABOUT UAE’S ROYAL FAMILIES

HOW MANY RULING FAMILIES ARE THERE IN THE UAE?

The UAE has six ruling families as mentioned above.

WHICH IS THE RICHEST EMIRATE IN THE UAE?

The capital city, Abu Dhabi, is the largest and wealthiest of the seven emirates.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT THE UAE’S ROYAL FAMILIES?

UAE’s royal families have together changed the fortunes of the country. Here is a list of UAE’s royal families’ contributions showing how much progress the country has made.

You can also read about H.H. (the late) Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan quotes that inspire generations for the progress of the UAE.

WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UAE AND ITS SEVEN EMIRATES?

Many people wonder what are the 7 UAE countries. The UAE doesn’t have countries but emirates and our guide details everything you need to know about various attractions across the emirates.

ARE THERE HISTORICAL PLACES TO VISIT IN THE UAE?

If you are intrigued by the rich history of the UAE’s royal families, you will surely be interested in discovering the best historical places to visit in Dubai. Likewise, historical sites in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, including those restored by the royal families in the UAE will surely take you back in time.

This ends our blog on the UAE ruling families. The history of every land is a reminder of its progress and struggle to reach where it is now. The UAE has a vast and diversified historical background representing the magnificent union of different ruling families who have taken the country to new heights.

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Featured Cover Image Credits: The Official Twitter Feed of The Government of Dubai Media Office