Istockphoto 161936176 612x612

The Discovery of Oil in the UAE

By mtwooone
  • Early Exploration Efforts

    Early Exploration Efforts

    The first geological surveys and oil concessions were initiated in 1935, laying the groundwork for future discoveries. Green-lit by Sheikh Shakhbut Bin Sultan, Ruler of Abu Dhabi.
  • First Oil Well Discovery

    First Oil Well Discovery

    Abu Dhabi’s first oil well was found on 16 February 1950 in Abu Dhabi territory at Ras Sadr which turned out to be dry.
  • First Discovery of Offshore Oil

    First Discovery of Offshore Oil

    Oil was first discovered at the Umm Shaif offshore field in Abu Dhabi, marking the start of a new era.
  • Abu Dhabi begins first ever Oil Exports

    Abu Dhabi begins first ever Oil Exports

    Abu Dhabi exported it's first ever oil shipment of crude oil from the Umm Shaif field, marking the start of the UAE's entrance into the global market.
  • Current Position

    Current Position

    The UAE has grown drastically, from surviving off of tradition, to becoming a global oil manufacturing-powerhouse, and with no doubt does it hold one of the strongest economic forces in the world.