UPSC Prelims 2008 Q63: Geography – World Political Geography & Borders
Consider the following statements:
1. Ajman is one of the seven Emirates of the UAE.
2. Ras al - Khaimah was the last Sheikhdom to join the UAE.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
Explanation
Checking two claims about the UAE's Emirates
The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven Emirates, with specific historical details about their formation.
| Statement | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Ajman is one of the seven Emirates of the UAE | Correct | Ajman is indeed one of the seven Emirates making up the UAE |
| 2. Ras al-Khaimah was the last Sheikhdom to join the UAE | Correct | Ras al-Khaimah joined the UAE federation later (in 1972), after the initial six Emirates formed the union in 1971 |
UAE formation facts:
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Seven Emirates include | Ajman, among others |
| Last to join | Ras al-Khaimah (1972) |
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Statement 2 (Ras al-Khaimah's late joining) is also correct, so '1 only' is incomplete.
- (b) Incorrect. Statement 1 (Ajman as one of the seven Emirates) is also correct, so '2 only' is incomplete.
- (c) CORRECT. Both Ajman's status as one of the seven Emirates and Ras al-Khaimah's late joining are accurate.
- (d) Incorrect. Since both statements are accurate, 'neither' is wrong.
Key point
Ajman is genuinely one of the UAE's seven Emirates, AND Ras al-Khaimah was indeed the last Sheikhdom to join the UAE federation (1972, after the initial 1971 union) — both statements are accurate.
Remember
Ajman is one of the UAE's seven Emirates; Ras al-Khaimah was the last Sheikhdom to join the UAE (1972).
Common mistakes
- Not knowing Ajman's status as one of the seven constituent Emirates.
- Missing the specific 1972 timeline for Ras al-Khaimah's later joining.
- Assuming all seven Emirates joined the UAE federation simultaneously in 1971.
Exam tip
UAE = 7 Emirates (including Ajman); 6 joined in 1971, with Ras al-Khaimah joining later, in 1972.
Sources
- Central Intelligence Agency — The World Factbook: United Arab Emirates (Government)
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — United Arab Emirates