United Arab Emirates Stamps
The United Arab Emirates is a federation located in Western Asia on the Arabian Peninsula, bordering the Persian Gulf. Prior to its formation in 1971, the constituent emirates were known as the Trucial States, operating under British protection and utilizing stamps issued by British India or the Trucial States Postal Administration.
- Issued stamps
- 1973–present
- Region
- Middle East, Arabian Peninsula
- Currency
- AED
- Languages
- Arabic, English
- Issuer type
- Modern postal administration
History and background
Modern UAE stamps predominantly feature Arabic script, often alongside English, reflecting the nation's official languages. The federation's establishment marked a significant transition from colonial administration to a unified sovereign postal system under the Universal Postal Union.
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.
- UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
How to identify them
- Stamps typically feature 'UNITED ARAB EMIRATES' or 'الإمارات العربية المتحدة' (Al-Imarat Al-Arabiyah Al-Muttahidah) in Arabic script.
- Look for the national emblem (a golden falcon) or portraits of the Rulers of the Emirates.
- Denominations are usually in Fils and Dirhams (e.g., 'Fils', 'Dh').
Popular series
-
Definitives of 1973
1973-1976
The first definitive series issued by the unified UAE, featuring national symbols and landscapes.
-
Expo 2020 Dubai
2019-2022
A series of commemorative stamps celebrating the hosting of Expo 2020 in Dubai, showcasing themes of innovation and global cooperation.
-
National Day Commemoratives
Ongoing
Annual issues celebrating UAE National Day (December 2nd), often depicting historical events, national achievements, and portraits of leaders.
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
- €0.20–€5
- Scarce stamps
- €50–€500+
Early definitive issues and certain commemorative sets, especially those with lower print runs or errors, can command higher prices. Modern common issues are generally inexpensive.
Catalogs. United Arab Emirates 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 United Arab Emirates stamps
United Arab Emirates stamps are postage stamps issued by the unified federation of the UAE since its formation in 1971 (with the first stamps appearing in 1973). They reflect the nation's history, culture, achievements, and natural beauty, often featuring both Arabic and English text.
The value of United Arab Emirates stamps varies significantly. Common modern issues are generally inexpensive, while early definitive sets, specific commemorative issues, and stamps with errors or unique characteristics can be quite valuable, ranging from a few euros to several hundred euros or more.
You can identify United Arab Emirates stamps by looking for the country's name in English ('UNITED ARAB EMIRATES') and Arabic ('الإمارات العربية المتحدة'). They often feature national symbols like the falcon, portraits of leaders, or significant landmarks. A photo in the Stamp Identifier app gives a first identification; check the catalog number in a specialised catalog before relying on it.
United Arab Emirates stamps are comprehensively listed in major international philatelic catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information, images, and estimated values for collectors.
Not sure where
it's from?
Photograph the stamp and Stamp Identifier names the issuer, the year and the series. One identification every 24 hours is free; prices and listings need Premium.