Exploring the UAE Through Books

by Yaseen Dockrat

Exploring the UAE Through Books

4 Feb 2024

The UAE has firmly established itself among the world's foremost nations, driven by its remarkable strides in politics, economics, and technology, drawing individuals from every corner of the globe to call it home. As this diverse populace settles and the nation thrives, a vibrant culture blossoms, where art mirrors life. Mirroring the evolution of countries before it, the UAE has emerged as a melting pot of diverse literature, arts and culture.

In this article, The Sandy Times presents a curated selection of books, offering a unique gateway into the UAE's past, present, and future. Spanning genres from fiction to personal narratives and historical accounts, these works encapsulate various facets of Emirati society.

Zayed: Life Of a Great Leader

This biography of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan offers a comprehensive insight into the life and lasting legacy of the UAE’s founding father and visionary leader. The book explores Sheikh Zayed’s upbringing, which shaped his leadership philosophy. The biography also delves into the Sheikh’s contributions towards nation-building and his lasting impact, which continues to guide the UAE’s development.

Letters To a Young Muslim by Omar Saif Ghobash

Emirati Diplomat Omar Saif Ghobash wrote these letters that address the challenges and nuances of being a Muslim in the current globalised world. While not solely centred on the UAE, these letters transcend borders and touch on Islamic identity and culture, which offers relevance and resonance to those navigating similar experiences in the Middle East.

The Sand Fish: A Novel From Dubai by Maha Gargash

Maha Gargash’s novel is set against the backdrop of 1950s Dubai. The novel intricately weaves the story of a young girl while capturing the city's societal shifts and cultural evolution. Through vivid storytelling, the book provides a glimpse into a period of transformation and changing dynamics of its society.

Dubai Tales, by Muhammed Al Murr

Dubai Tales, by Muhammed al Murr is an anthology that compiles short stories from Emirati authors. These stories provide a nuanced glimpse into different facets of the city, highlighting its diversity, cultural richness and the intersecting lives of its inhabitants.

From Rags To Riches: A Story Of Abu Dhabi by Mohammed Al-Fahim

Mohammed Al Fahim chronicles the journey of the UAE’s capital city, Abu Dhabi. The book traces the city's transformation from a desert village to a vibrant and modern metropolis. This comprehensive work vividly portrays the evolution of the emirate, its leaders, societal changes and economic development.

Dubai: The Story Of the World’s Fastest City by Jim Krane

Jim Krane explores Dubai’s meteoric rise to becoming a global city. The book delves into the city's rapid development, economic strategies, and the factors contributing to arguably one of the greatest success stories. The book provides a narrative of Dubai’s transformation into a bustling metropolis at a pace not seen before.

My Vision: Challenges In the Race For Excellence by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Who better to explain the challenges and strategies implemented towards becoming a global nation other than Dubai’s Ruler, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum? The book offers a firsthand account of the ruler's vision for excellence in the nation's development.

UAE — Culture Smart! The Essential Guide To Customs & Culture by John Walsh

The book serves as a valuable guide for expats and visitors who seek to understand the cultural and social intricacies of the UAE. The work provides some practical insights into the customs and traditions of the land, allowing those visiting and living in the UAE to foster a deeper appreciation of Emirati society.

by Yaseen Dockrat