The Union House

The Union House was built in 1965 at the west end of December 2 Street, near the Jumeirah sea. Located on Jumeirah Road, the Union House was a governmental building in which the late ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum conducted meetings and received guests. In 1971, the building was host to the signing of the union of the Emirates and formation of the country. Today, it is part of Etihad Museum and is still host to some governmental activity considering its historical and socio-political significance. Restored to its original 1970s appearance, the 'Union House' was a part of the summer residence of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, which was then known as 'Al Mudhif' or 'Guest Residence'.
The circular building has been preserved in its original form, with some structural improvements and restorations, and even today, guests are overcome with the sheer immensity of the history contained within its walls as soon as they step in. The curving walls of this circular shaped structure stand as a reminder of the vision, determination and capability of the nation’s Founding Fathers.
The flagpole, landscape and shoreline around this historic location has been designed to replicate its original appearance in 1971, so every visitor here is walking through a physical manifestation in time that eternally relives the momentous occasion of 'The Union' in the nation’s timeline.

This house represents a historical legacy of the UAE and an important milestone for future generations to preserve it means to maintain the historic moments, to perpetuate the national memories and document the experience of an Arab unity." - Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, whom also initiated the conservation and restoration of the building.
‘Dar Al Etihad’, which is Arabic for ‘The Union House’ is the official birthplace of the United Arab Emirates and a building of great national significance – Originally used by the ruler of Dubai to conduct meetings and host guests, it wasn’t until the rulers of the Emirates sat at the circular table here to sign the declaration, that it became a historic symbol of unity: On 2nd December 1971, the Rulers of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah met inside the house and sat at a round, leather paneled table. Long, velvet floral curtains hung from the windows, all gathered at this very location to announce the establishment of Union that resulted in the formation of the United Arab Emirates. After the signing, the meeting continued as a Supreme Council of Federation where they elected in this location the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Ruler of Abu Dhabi, as President of the UAE for five years, and the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, as Vice President for the same period.
It also witnessed the signing of the 'Treaty of Friendship' between the UAE and the UK at the Union House in 1971.