Private
Private

The United Arab Emirates is a constitutional federation of seven emirates since December 1971: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah (1972).

 

Every year, on December 2nd, the UAE celebrates its National Day, marking the unification of the seven Emirates.

 

The Ambassador of Portugal to the United Arab Emirates is H.E. Fernando Figueirinhas

Presently, both have reciprocally strong and cooperative relations. In addition to often meetings between delegates of the two countries, this fact is highlighted by the recent recognition of the former Ambassador of Portugal Joaquim Moreira de Lemos by the former President of the UAE H.H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zaved Al Nahyan, with the Medal of Independence.

 

Portugal and the United Arab Emirates have historical ties dating back to the 15th century when the Portuguese took control of the Arabian Gulf and its trading routes. The Khor Fakkan (Corfacam) Portuguese Fort, Al Hisn Fort, and Kalba represent the remains of the Portuguese presence in the UAE during the 15th and 16th centuries today these monuments are tourist attractions.

 

António Bocarro is the author of the painting on the right. He was a notable figure in Portuguese history, known primarily for his work as a historian and geographer during the 17th century. Born around 1594, Bocarro served as the official chronicler of the Estado da Índia, the Portuguese colonial administration in Asia. His contributions are particularly significant for their detailed accounts of Portuguese territories in the East.

 

One of Bocarro’s most renowned works is the “Livro das Plantas de Todas as Fortalezas, Cidades e Povoações do Estado da Índia Oriental,” often referred to simply as the “Livro das Plantas.” This manuscript, completed in 1635, is an extensive collection of maps and descriptions of Portuguese fortifications and settlements in the Indian Ocean region, including East Africa, the Arabian Gulf, India, Southeast Asia, and the Far East.

Antonio Bocarro "Livro das Plantas"
Central Souq Mosque, Sharjah

In 2022 His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, announced the construction of the Portuguese Castle Museum in Khor Fakkan.

 

This project comes in addition to the restoration of the Khor Fakkan wall, a symbol of the resistance of its people against the Portuguese invasion, in the same context Sharjah visitors will also have the opportunity to visit the Resistance Monument.

 

H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, member of the Federal Supreme Council of the United Arab Emirates, and ruler of Sharjah is also a Member of the Academy of Sciences in Lisbon and has an honorary doctorate from the University of Coimbra.

 

The Emirate of Sharja and Portugal upheld several initiatives together.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has evolved into one of the most dynamic economies in the Middle East. Initially reliant on oil, the UAE has diversified its economy, reducing oil’s contribution to less than a third of its GDP. This transformation is driven by significant investments in sectors like tourism, aviation, manufacturing, and services, particularly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The UAE’s GDP was around $415 billion in 2021, with growth projections of about 5% for 2024​ (Arab News)​​ (Wikipedia)​.

 

The UAE’s business-friendly environment, advanced infrastructure, and strategic location have garnered global recognition, making it a pivotal trade and logistics hub. Its policies and initiatives, such as Vision 2021 and the Dubai Industrial Strategy 2030, underscore its commitment to innovation and sustainability​ (UAE)​​ (Industrial Analytics Platform)​.

 

Culturally, the UAE maintains its rich traditions, celebrating customs like traditional music, dance, falconry, and camel racing. This blend of heritage and modernity, alongside ambitious projects like the Burj Khalifa and Expo 2020 Dubai, highlights the UAE’s unique global status​ (UAE)​​ (Industrial Analytics Platform)​.

 

The UAE has an open and dynamic economy with dedicated national programs to support entrepreneurs and the most advanced infrastructure. Is a proven strategic hub, strong in diversified industries such as logistics, tourism, finance, real estate, and technology.

Portugal and the United Arab Emirates uphold several official meetings to strengthen economic and cultural ties.

 

The UAE is a forward-thinking nation, rich in history. Any visitor can be fascinated by the contrasts of heritage from centuries ago and first-class modern infrastructure. Foreign investment is welcome with business- friendly laws. The non oil sector is resilient and growing, and recently new reforms were applied to residency visas in order to facilitate residency procedures.

Related Sources and Further Reading