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1970s and before: The Early Days
It was under the patronage of the late Sheikh Zayed that the United Arab Emirates was created in December 1971. Abu Dhabi and Dubai were first to form the union, followed shortly by what would become the remaining five emirates - Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain. The two leading emirates in particular would be hugely influential in paving the way forward for the newly-formed UAE in the global aviation scene.
Before unity, the country had been taking baby steps into the fast-developing aviation world. In 1959, Dubai government had already established dnata, a small five-strong team providing ground handling services at what would officially become Dubai International Airport in 1960. This set the ball rolling for a flurry of airport openings across the UAE. Abu Dhabi Airport opened in 1969, under its original name of Al Bateen Airport, and Ras al Khaimah airport followed after in 1976.
A year later, Sharjah International Airport had begun operations. By 1971, Dubai International had already been operating for more than ten years albeit on a small scale with only nine airlines and twenty destinations served. Across the decade, the airport continued with a significant improvement project. As well as a new three-storey terminal, the airport acquired a new control tower, additional taxiways, longer runways and extension of aprons.
FACTS:
1976: The year in which Ras Al Khaimah International Airport was opened
20: The number of destinations served by Dubai International Airport in 1971
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