| Originally a small fishing settlement, Dubai | | | | pearling. However, the liberal attitude of |
| was taken over in the 18th century by a | | | | the rulers made the emirate attractive to |
| branch of the Bani Yas tribe led by the | | | | traders from India and Iran. In 1971, joining |
| Maktoum family who still rule the emirate | | | | together with Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm |
| today. At that time the usual modes of | | | | Al Quwain, Fujairah and (in 1972) Ras Al |
| attaining sustenance were herding sheep and | | | | Khaimah formed the federation of the United |
| goats, cultivating dates, fishing and | | | | Arab Emirates. |