Description

Abu Dhabi Police, the primary law enforcement agency in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, has undergone various name changes throughout its history:

• General Headquarters of Abu Dhabi Police (2004–present)
• General Directorate of Abu Dhabi Police (1984–2004)
• General Directorate of Police (1977–1984)
• Local Ministry of Interior (Abu Dhabi Police) (1971–1977)
• Command of Police and Public Security (1967–1971)
• Department of Police and Public Security (1957–1966)

Established in 1957 by Sheikh Shakbut bin Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Police initially comprised 80 officers tasked with safeguarding royal sites, markets, banks, and overseeing maritime security. Under the leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan from 1971 onwards, the police underwent significant development. It transitioned into the local Ministry of Interior and expanded its responsibilities to include naturalization, passport issuance, prison management, traffic control, oil facility protection, international police relations, and combating crime. By 1995, under the leadership of Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Police embarked on a modernization phase aimed at enhancing efficiency and effectiveness through strategic development plans and technological advancements, focusing on community safety and quality of life.

Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan (1948–2022), the UAE's second president and ruler of Abu Dhabi from November 2004 to May 2022, was the eldest son of the UAE's first president, Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. He took on a significant role in the late 1990s due to his father's health issues and officially became Abu Dhabi's leader in 2004. His tenure saw cultural and academic growth, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Etihad Airways. Under his leadership, the UAE became a major economic power. Known for his pro-Western stance, he strengthened ties with the US and Israel.