Just a few weeks after the foundation of the United Arab Emirates on 2 December 1971, Dr Sultan al-Qasimi was selected as the new ruler of Sharjah. With the addition of a further and final emirate in 1972, seven hitherto separate emirates had now become a single country under the leadership of Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the highly respected ruler of Abu Dhabi. Dr al-Qasimi, one of the new federation's most enthusiastic supporters, was frequently tasked with solving the challenges that it faced, including constitutional issues and territorial disputes. Dr al-Qasimi's personal touch, including his Saturday morning majlis where all comers, whether nationals or otherwise, could bring their problems, and his support for educational and cultural institutions, was a vital element in building a solid base for the young country.