Description

The United Arab Emirates Armed Forces, also known as "Little Sparta" for their significant military capabilities relative to their size, play an active role in the region's defense. Originally established as the Union Defense Force, each emirate managed its own defense until the Federal Armed Forces were formed in 1974 and unified in 1976 under a single command. Military Union Day, celebrated annually on May 6, marks this consolidation. The Yarmouk Brigade, formed from this union, eventually became the foundation of the UAE Armed Forces, which established its insignia, uniform, military academies, air force, naval force, and General Headquarters in Abu Dhabi in 1976.

Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (1918–2004) was an Emirati leader, credited with founding the United Arab Emirates. He governed the Eastern Region before becoming Abu Dhabi's ruler in 1966 and later the UAE's first president until his passing in 2004. Revered as the "Father of the Nation," he played a pivotal role in uniting the seven emirates. Zayed succeeded his brother as Abu Dhabi's ruler after a peaceful coup in 1966.