Contents
The United Arab Emirates’ history started when the UAE was established 50 years ago. While much has changed in that time, the Emirate of Ajman has maintained its rich cultural traditions and heritage. Though it is less popular than Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Ajman’s history and culture are unique and can be found throughout the city. Discover and learn more about the great history of Ajman.
Quick Look on Ajman
One of the seven emirates that formed the United Arab Emirates is the Emirate of Ajman in Arabic (عجمان). On December 2, 1971, Ajman became a member of the UAE Federation. Ajman is located in the northern part of the UAE, on the coast of the Arabian Gulf. It connects the emirates of Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain.
It is the country’s smallest Emirate, with a total space of 259 square kilometers. It has a silvery beach that stretches for 16 kilometers. It is named after the city of Ajman, which serves as its capital.
It is divided into three sections: The main zone, on the Persian Gulf coast, is surrounded by Al-Sharjah and is home to the capital and largest urban settlement, Ajman. In the Musandam Peninsula, the Emirate of Ajman also encompasses two interior exclaves with a focus on agriculture, the Arabian Peninsula’s horn:
- Al-Manamah: 37 miles (60 km) southeast of Ajman and shares borders with Fujairah and Sharjah
- Masfout: (90 km) southeast of Ajman, in the Wadi Hatta at the peninsula base.
Quick Facts about Ajman History
- Ajman area: 148 km2
- Ajman population: 411,000
- Ajman ruler: Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi III
“Read more: Dubai day trips; Dubai, the most popular city located in the United Arab Emirates
Ajman history early stage
Ajman history dates to 1800, according to historical records. The Emirate was founded by the Al Nuaim tribe, who settled there permanently and began looking for natural resources to help them settle in.
The land provided them with a variety of options such as fishing, diving, and farming. These provided them with a small amount of money to invest in small businesses of handmade personal items such as dresses, blankets, tents, and other unsophisticated professions.
Sultan bin Saqr signed the General Maritime Treaty with the United Kingdom on February 4, 1820, following the sack of Ras Al Khaimah by a British force led by Sir W.G. Keir on January 8, 1820. This marked Ajman’s official recognition as an autonomous state.
Read more: Dubai development history; The emirate of dubai is known as the miracle city
Ajman history from the nineties till now
The number of people who migrated to the Emirate increased noticeably in 1950, when the Crown Prince of the time, Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, took charge of national affairs, and the decade from 1950 to 1960 was known locally as the remarkable makeover of Ajman History, heralding the birth of modern Ajman.
The Emirate is currently ruled by His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, and the Crown Prince is Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi.
- Economics
Ajman is the poorest member of the United Arab Emirates economically. Only a date-palm farm and roughly 40 pearling boats were engaged in economic activity.
From 1961 to the early 1970s, one of Ajman’s primary sources of revenue was the sale of a wide range of postage stamps aimed at Western collectors. These stamps were never sent to Ajman and served no legitimate postal purpose; most needed to be recognized by reputable philatelic organizations or catalogs. There were also commemorative coins issued. The United Arab Emirates established a post office department in 1972 to take over philatelic emissions from member emirates.
“Read more: Climat des Émirats arabes unis : tout ce que vous devez savoir“
- Education
Ajman University of Science and Technology (AUCST) was founded in 1988. It is Ajman’s primary higher education institution, with colleges that specialize in engineering, information
- Commerce
The Ruler’s office, companies, commercial market, and approximately 50 international and national retail shops are in Ajman. Emirates NBD, AjmanBank, Commercial Bank of Dubai, Arab Bank PLC, and Bank Saderat Iran all have banking interests. It is also home to the UAE’s fishing industry, with many seafood importers/exporters. Ajmān China Mall and City Center Ajman are two shopping malls you can find there.
“Read more: Historical Background Of Dubai learn more about it
- Transportation
Ajman’s natural port (or khor) is located along a natural creek that runs through the town.
Ajman is resuming its development, which was halted by the financial crisis of 2007-2008, and is experiencing rapid growth. With recent investments from foreign companies and installations and renovations of its tourist attractions, hotels including Ramada, Ajman Palace, Ajman Hotel, Ajman Saray, Fairmont Ajman, and commercial sites, it has grown tremendously over the years.
The number of tourist attractions in the Emirate is rapidly increasing. They include Ajman Beach, the Ajman state National Museum at Ajman Fort, the Red Fort, and the museum in Manama’s inland enclave. City Center Ajman, the Emirate’s largest mall, is also famous due to its unique architectural experience and wide range of shops and confectioneries.
Timeline of Ajmans’ Rulers
| Period | Ruler |
| 1816 – 1838 | Rashid II ibn Humayd |
| 1838 – 1841 | Humayd II ibn Rashid – 1st time |
| 1841 – 1848 | Abd al–` Aziz I ibn Rashid |
| 1848 – 1873 | Humayd II ibn Rashid – 2nd time |
| 1873 – April 1891 | Rashid III ibn Humaid |
| April 1891 – July 8, 1900 | Humaid III ibn Rashid |
| July 8, 1900 – February 1910 | Abd al–`Aziz II ibn Humayd |
| February 1910 – January 1928 | Humayd IV ibn `Abd al–`Aziz |
| January 1928 – September 6, 1981 | Rashid IV ibn Humayd |
| September 6, 1981 – 20. | Humayd ibn Rashid |
“Read more: Historic Dubai: Exploring Landmarks, Hidden Gems, and Cultural Heritage
Important landmarks in Ajman history
Ajman is well-known for its heritage and culture. The government has worked hard to preserve it to educate future generations about their heritage as an essential part of UAE history. Below is a list of the most famous landmarks in the municipality:
- Ajman Museum
The Ajman Museum first opened its doors in 1981. It was an 18th-century fort that served as a stronghold for the Emirate’s leadership and a first line of defense against any attack; it was eventually utilized as the Ruler’s office palace until 1970. It displays a mix of archaeological artifacts, old weapons, and manuscripts; this storied site provides much insight into Ajman History
- Dhow Dock
Historically, wooden dhows, traditional Arab sailing vessels, played an essential role in regional fishing, pearling, and trading. For centuries, Ajman has been known for the quality and craftsmanship of their handmade dhows, and you can still visit one of the most significant dhow-building projects ever in Ajman today.
“Read more: The Fascinating and Complex History of the UAE“
- Manama
The agricultural enclave of Manama, with its majestic mountain backdrop, is known for its pleasant view, wild honey, and historical fortresses.
Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the scenic surroundings, dotted with Acacia, ghaf, and flowering sidr and simr trees that attract Asiatic honeybees, while history buffs will appreciate the three historic fortresses.
- Ajman Fort
It was once the Ruler of Ajman’s house before being given to the Ajman Police in 1967 as a barracks. It was later converted into a museum, housing an eclectic collection of artifacts and exhibitions depicting traditional Ajman life.
When is the best time to visit Ajman and explore its history?
Ajman is best visited between Oct and April. The united arab emirates weather is generally mild throughout the year. However, high humidity and temperature in the summer season make the weather unsuitable for experiencing historical sightseeing.
FAQ
What is the history of Ajman?
Ajman history dates to 1800, according to historical records. The Emirate was founded by the Al Nuaim tribe, who settled there permanently and began looking for natural resources to help them settle in.
What is Ajman known for?
Ajman has a few sandy beaches but is most known for the craggy Hajjar mountain range. Although Ajman is modern and offers modern services and facilities, it retains its traditional charm.
Why is it called Ajman?
It is named for the city of Ajman, which serves as its capital.
When was Ajman founded?
Around 1775.
How far is Ajman from dubai?
It’s about 40 kms away from Dubai.
Visiting Ajman, the smallest Emirate, is like visiting one of the country’s most typical coastal cities: Ajman History will help you live the experience of a millennial maritime history, a vanished golden age of pearl fishing, and have tours to the fort-museum that pays homage to what remains of the past, a corniche, and some deserted souks. Ajman has no oil or gas on its territory. Today, it is a peaceful provincial town that lives at the pace of its shipyards and is largely ignored by tourists. Don’t hesitate and discover Ajman History hidden gems.
