Emirate of Umm Al Quwain

The Emirate of Umm Al Quwain is an administrative division in the northern part of the United Arab Emirates, bordering the waters of the Persian Gulf and neighboring emirates. It contains several small towns, agricultural zones near the waterfront, and sandy interior areas that stretch toward the boundaries with adjacent territories.

This emirate was founded in the late 18th century as an independent sheikhdom and remained shaped by coastal settlements and fishing for decades. During the 20th century, it joined with other territories to form the United Arab Emirates and gained its current administrative status.

The Al Mualla family, descendants of the Al Ali tribe, relocated from Siniyah Island and established their leadership, maintaining strong maritime and pearl diving traditions.

This emirate can be reached by coastal roads that connect with the other northern territories and allow easy orientation along the shoreline. Most public facilities and services are found in the main town, while smaller settlements are quieter and less developed.

In some coastal areas, old remnants of oyster beds still appear, hinting at earlier pearl diving activities, though the practice is no longer carried out. These traces recall a time when the coast thrived on the pearl trade and many families drew their income from the sea.

Location: United Arab Emirates

Inception: 1775

Capital city: Umm Al Quwain

Elevation above the sea: 52 m

Reference: UQ

Shares border with: Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, Emirate of Ajman, Emirate of Sharjah

GPS coordinates: 25.55000,55.55000

Latest update: December 15, 2025 01:42