Abu Dhabi Stamps
Abu Dhabi is a key emirate located in the Arabian Peninsula, forming part of the contemporary United Arab Emirates. Prior to the formation of the UAE in 1971, its postal services operated under the administration of the British postal agencies in the Persian Gulf, often utilizing stamps overprinted for the Trucial States.
- Issued stamps
- 1964–1972
- Region
- Middle East, Arabian Peninsula
- Currency
- INR
- Languages
- English, Arabic
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
- Part of
- United Kingdom
About Abu Dhabi stamps
Early issues primarily featured English and Arabic inscriptions, reflecting the British influence and the local language environment. The transition to national sovereignty marked a significant shift in stamp issuing authority, culminating in the unified postal system of the UAE.
Further reading: Wikipedia
Inscriptions to look for
Words printed on the stamp that point to this issuer. Search any of them in the issuer directory.
- ABU DHABI
How to identify Abu Dhabi stamps
- Look for 'ABU DHABI' inscription, often in both English and Arabic.
- Check the year of issue; stamps are generally from 1964 to 1972.
- Distinguish from 'Trucial States' overprints, which preceded direct Abu Dhabi issues.
Popular series
-
Definitives
1964-1967
The first definitive series, featuring local scenes, wildlife, and the Ruler, Sheikh Shakhbut bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
-
Oil Development
1966
A commemorative series highlighting the burgeoning oil industry, a key economic driver for Abu Dhabi.
-
Sheikh Zayed Definitive Series
1968-1972
Featuring Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who became Ruler in 1966 and was instrumental in the formation of the UAE.
Value overview
Typical ranges as orientation, not prices for a particular stamp. Condition, variety and demand decide the value of your copy; for current asking prices, check listings or the app.
- Common stamps
- $0.50–$5
- Scarce stamps
- $50–$500+
Early definitive sets and specific commemorative issues in fine condition can fetch higher prices. Errors or varieties are particularly sought after. Stamps issued during the British postal agency period (overprinted Trucial States) are distinct from those issued by Abu Dhabi directly.
Catalogs. Abu Dhabi stamps are listed in the major world catalogs: Scott, Michel and Stanley Gibbons. Catalog numbers and groupings differ between them; the Stamp Identifier app shows the numbers it can find for your stamp.
Questions about Abu Dhabi stamps
Abu Dhabi stamps are postage stamps issued by the Emirate of Abu Dhabi between 1964 and 1972, prior to the formation of the United Arab Emirates. They reflect the emirate's transition from British postal administration to its own postal authority.
While many common Abu Dhabi stamps are readily available and inexpensive, certain definitive sets, commemorative issues, and especially errors or varieties can be quite valuable, ranging from $50 to over $500. Condition plays a significant role in their philatelic worth.
You can identify Abu Dhabi stamps by looking for the 'ABU DHABI' inscription, typically in both English and Arabic. The issuing period is crucial, generally between 1964 and 1972. For a first lead, photograph the stamp in the Stamp Identifier app, then confirm the catalog number; valuable stamps deserve an expert opinion.
Abu Dhabi stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated market values.
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