Delving into United Arab Emirates History unveils a fascinating journey, from its early tribal origins to its present status as a global economic powerhouse. Understanding this history can deepen your appreciation of the UAE’s culture, politics, and rapid development. To guide you through this rich past, we’ve compiled a list of the Top 10 Best Books on United Arab Emirates History that provide diverse perspectives and detailed narratives. Whether you’re a historian, a student, or someone simply curious about the region, these books offer valuable insights.
By: Amelia Razi
Amelia Razi is a Middle Eastern history enthusiast and author, focusing on the Gulf region’s political and cultural transformations. Her work brings a detailed yet accessible understanding of the complexities surrounding the United Arab Emirates.
The Fascinating Story of United Arab Emirates History
The United Arab Emirates History is filled with dramatic transformations, from nomadic tribes and pearl divers to the discovery of oil and its rise as a global player in commerce and tourism. Each book in this list offers a unique window into the UAE’s rich history, helping readers explore how its past continues to influence its future. These Top 10 Best Books are must-reads for anyone wanting to fully grasp the scope of the United Arab Emirates History.
10. The Big Book of United Arab Emirates Facts: An Educational UAE Travel Picture Book for Kids
Author: James K. Mahi
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.0 out of 5 stars (8 ratings)
This vibrant picture book serves as an engaging introduction to United Arab Emirates History for younger readers, offering a blend of fun facts and essential historical context.
Why You’ll Love It: Perfect for introducing children to United Arab Emirates History in an enjoyable way. It simplifies complex historical events and showcases iconic landmarks.
Fun Fact: Did you know that Dubai’s Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, standing at over 828 meters? This book highlights fun architectural facts for kids.
Category: United Arab Emirates History
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9. The History of the United Arab Emirates: From Pearls to Prosperity
Author: Khalid J. Ali
⭐⭐⭐ 2.7 out of 5 stars (3 ratings)
A comprehensive look at the transformation of the UAE from its days as a pearling center to becoming one of the wealthiest nations due to oil discovery.
Why We Choose It: This book dives deep into the economic history of the UAE, which is crucial to understanding its rapid growth.
Fun Fact: The UAE was one of the largest exporters of pearls before oil was discovered in the 1950s, marking a major shift in its economic history.
Category: United Arab Emirates History
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8. Islamic Empires: The Cities that Shaped Civilization: From Mecca to Dubai
Author: Justin Marozzi
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 out of 5 stars (200 ratings)
Marozzi examines the impact of Islamic cities, including Dubai, on global history, showcasing how they have been instrumental in shaping civilizations.
Why You’ll Love It: This book places Dubai within a broader historical context, allowing readers to understand the role of the UAE in the Islamic world.
Fun Fact: Dubai’s modern transformation is one of the fastest in human history, going from a fishing village to a major metropolis in just a few decades.
Category: United Arab Emirates History
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7. Showpiece City: How Architecture Made Dubai
Author: Todd Reisz
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6 out of 5 stars (7 ratings)
This book explores the critical role architecture has played in shaping modern Dubai, tracing its journey from modest beginnings to becoming an architectural marvel.
Why We Choose It: Architecture has been a defining factor in Dubai’s identity, and this book captures the city’s visionary approach to urban planning.
Fun Fact: Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah is the largest artificial island in the world, built using around 94 million cubic meters of sand.
Category: United Arab Emirates History
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6. Keepers of the Golden Shore: A History of the United Arab Emirates
Author: Michael Quentin Morton
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3 out of 5 stars (28 ratings)
Morton offers a sweeping narrative of United Arab Emirates History, starting from ancient times and covering the UAE’s political and social evolution.
Why You’ll Love It: This book provides a well-rounded view of UAE history, from tribal society to the modern federation of emirates.
Fun Fact: The UAE is home to over 200 nationalities, making it one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world.
Category: United Arab Emirates History
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5. The Origins of the United Arab Emirates: A Political and Social History of the Trucial States
Author: R.S. Zahlan
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0 out of 5 stars (5 ratings)
Zahlan delves into the early political and social history of the Trucial States, the precursor to the modern UAE.
Why We Choose It: This book is essential for anyone wanting to understand the foundation of the UAE’s political structure before the discovery of oil.
Fun Fact: The Trucial States were a group of sheikhdoms that signed peace treaties with Britain in the 19th century, laying the groundwork for the UAE.
Category: United Arab Emirates History
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4. Reinventing the Sheikhdom: Clan, Power and Patronage in Mohammed bin Zayed’s UAE
Author: Matthew Hedges
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 3.9 out of 5 stars (7 ratings)
This book explores how Mohammed bin Zayed reshaped the UAE through strategic alliances, tribal leadership, and modern patronage systems.
Why You’ll Love It: Hedges offers an in-depth look at the political dynamics behind the UAE’s rise to power, focusing on one of its most influential leaders.
Fun Fact: Mohammed bin Zayed, known as MbZ, has been described as the most powerful leader in the Arab world today.
Category: United Arab Emirates History
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3. City of Gold: Dubai and the Dream of Capitalism
Author: Jim Krane
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 out of 5 stars (196 ratings)
Krane tells the fascinating story of Dubai’s rise as a city built on the ideals of capitalism, rapid development, and global trade.
Why We Choose It: This book perfectly captures Dubai’s ambition and the role of capitalism in shaping its success story.
Fun Fact: Dubai is home to over 70 shopping malls, earning it the title of the “shopping capital of the Middle East.”
Category: United Arab Emirates History
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2. Seeking Stability Amidst Disorder: The Foreign Policies of Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar, 2010-20
Author: Tobias Borck
⭐⭐⭐ 2.0 out of 5 stars (1 rating)
Borck analyzes the UAE’s role in the shifting dynamics of Gulf politics between 2010 and 2020, focusing on foreign policy strategies.
Why You’ll Love It: This book provides a detailed examination of how the UAE has navigated regional tensions and established itself as a diplomatic power.
Fun Fact: The UAE’s foreign policy is known for its balance, maintaining strong relationships with both Western and regional powers.
Category: United Arab Emirates History
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1. Dubai: The Story of the World’s Fastest City
Author: Jim Krane
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.4 out of 5 stars (90 ratings)
Krane’s exploration of Dubai chronicles how this desert city rose to become one of the fastest-growing cities in the world, driven by ambition, oil, and innovation.
Why We Choose It: This book encapsulates the essence of United Arab Emirates History, highlighting Dubai’s journey from a humble trading port to a global metropolis.
Fun Fact: Dubai’s population has exploded from just a few thousand in the 1950s to over 3.3 million today, making it one of the fastest-growing cities in the world.
Category: United Arab Emirates History
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