Abu Dhabi then and now pictures

On December 2, National Day is celebrated in recognition of the unification of the seven emirates and the formal independence from the United Kingdom in 1971. And this year marks the country’s 41st anniversary. Not only do we all get time off work but the streets will be crammed with people celebrating with flags, decorated cars, dancing and music. The UAE, and Abu Dhabi in particular, have been through some incredible changes and to put into perspective just how rapidly things have transformed, we caught up with Peter Hellyer, Director Of Research at the National Media Council, who’s been here for 35 years.

Above, The Corniche in 1954, roughly where 4th Street now starts

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