General Maritime Treaty of 1820

Background. Decades of maritime conflict in the Persian Gulf, characterized by British officials as piracy by the Qawasim, led to a punitive British expedition from Bombay in 1819. The fall of Ras Al Khaimah and Dhayah in December 1819 preceded the treaty. Prior agreements existed, but the 1820 treaty formalized the cessation of plunder and piracy, stipulating the end of slavery and laying foundations for the British protectorate.

Signing Process. The treaty was signed in stages throughout January and February 1820. Major-General Keir Grant signed with Hassan bin Rahma Al-Qassimi and Rajib bin Ahmed Al-Zaabi in Ras Al Khaimah on 8 January. Subsequent signatures occurred in Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah, involving sheikhs from Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah. According to the Ras Al Khaimah source, Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi of Sharjah was reinstated by the British in Ras Al Khaimah after the deposition of Hassan bin Rahma Al Qasimi.

Consequences. The treaty led to the recognition of the Trucial States and the establishment of a British protectorate. It virtually eliminated piracy as a profession, though occasional incidents occurred. British actions shifted from garrisoning to maritime patrols and the appointment of a Political Agent in Sharjah in 1823. The treaty's memory and stipulations significantly reduced maritime conflict against foreign vessels.