Umm Al Quwain, one of the seven emirates forming the United Arab Emirates, has sparked numerous theories regarding its name’s origin. The most widely accepted interpretation suggests that “Umm Al Quwain” translates to “mother of the two powers,” derived from the phrase “Umm Al Quwatain.” These powers often symbolize geographical aspects, with locals portraying it as a hub of diverse activities on land and water, while others view it as a fusion of economic and agricultural prowess. H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla leads the emirate, with Rashid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mua’lla serving as the current crown prince and Abdullah bin Rashid Al Mualla III as the deputy ruler.
Situated in the northern region of the country, Umm Al Quwain stands as the UAE’s second smallest emirate, bordered by the Persian Gulf. Nestled between Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah/Ajman on the western coast, it holds a strategic position along the crucial trade route connecting the Middle East and India.
Umm Al Quwain spans an area of 770 square kilometres, boasts a coastline extending 24 kilometres and is primarily comprised of the coastal city of Umm al-Quwain and the inland oasis town of Falaj Al Mualla, positioned about 30 kilometres from the coast.
The Emirate includes lush coastal mangroves and a plethora of recreational opportunities, ranging from sailing to skydiving. Traditional pastimes like dhow building, as well as sports such as falconry and camel racing, thrive here. Dreamland Aqua Park, one of the UAE’s largest water parks, stands out as a premier tourist attraction in the emirate.
Fishing plays a vital role in Umm Al Quwain’s economy, with the emirate exporting seafood to Europe and the Middle East. Additionally, revenue streams flow in from hotels, parks, tourism, general trading activities, and the Umm Al Quwain Free Zone, located at Port Ahmed Bin Rashid. The government has implemented various initiatives and strategies to promote growth in trade and industrial activities within the emirate.
In 2018, the government initiated Umm Al Quwain Vision 2021, aiming for comprehensive structural development through various programs and initiatives to enhance living standards for a united society. This vision encompasses five core pillars: fostering a sustainable and diversified economy, promoting social cohesion, enhancing tourism appeal, improving infrastructure, and fostering innovation within the government.
The government’s business initiatives and programs act as a conduit to bolster local businesses and industries, fostering partnerships with the private sector to cultivate an economy grounded in knowledge, research, and development.
Umm Al Quwain’s Sustainable Blue Economy Strategy 2031 serves as a blueprint for the emirate’s future growth, envisioning its evolution into the ‘capital of the blue economy’. This strategy aims to elevate investment attractiveness while nurturing the emirate’s natural, cultural, and human resources. Creating opportunities for youth, entrepreneurs, and investors in pivotal and promising sectors remains.
