The United Arab Emirates was formed in 1971 when six emirates - Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah joined together, with Ras Al Khaimah joining shortly after. Prior to independence, the area was known as the Trucial States and was under British protection. Oil was discovered in the 1950s and first exported from Abu Dhabi in 1962, transforming the economy.