The discovery of oil: the turn of the 1960s ⛽💰
In the 1960s, an event took place in Dubai that fundamentally changed its future - the discovery of oil. This discovery brought new wealth to Dubai and allowed the city to begin a massive modernisation. Oil revenues began to fund ambitious infrastructure projects, transforming what was once a small city into a thriving metropolis.
Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai at the time, saw far beyond the oil wealth. He decided to invest in infrastructure that would attract foreign investors and promote economic diversification. It was he who built the important Jebel Ali port and airport, which today is one of the busiest in the world. This has ensured that Dubai will not only depend on oil, but will develop other sectors as well.
The discovery of oil was a pivotal moment for Dubai, enabling the city to transform itself into a modern centre of commerce and services and paving the way for further development in the decades to come.