Simply Abu Dhabi XXIX

6 0 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I archaeological artefacts from 4000 years of settlement in the desert. Preserving and honouring the past, while simultaneously planning for future progress, is a high-wire act. But it was the essence of Sheikh Zayed’s visionary quality. In the 1950s, the discovery of oil and political developments were converging to change the Emirates’ future forever – and the wise leadership of Sheikh Zayed, and the growing respect he commanded – played a crucial role in the events of the next three decades. In 1952, a territorial dispute over the Al Buraimi oasis was resolved, as the Sheikh worked with those involved to persuade them that tribal conflict would only make the struggle to survive in the desert more difficult, unless everyone cooperated in building a better future together. Sheikh Zayed’s understanding of tribal dynamics was the key to resolving disputes and moving towards unity. His role in these negotiations won him the admiration and respect of all parties during the settlement negotiations. During the British occupation of Al Buraimi, the Sheikh continued to help develop the region and restore the falaj system, a network of water channels that kept the area irrigated and fertile. In an incredible display of generosity and integrity, the Al Nahyan family turned over their own private shares of the water supply to the public, all to the greater good. For Sheikh Zayed, the greatest investment was in people, those who would then go on to create the future prosperity of the Emirates. Sheikh Zayed made a tremendous impression on the British in the region at the time, whether they were representatives of the oil exploration companies, or with the military forces. The late Sir Wilfred Thesiger wrote of Sheikh Zayed in 1948, “His manner was quiet but masterful. I was eager to see himwith the Bedouins. They loved him because he was so simple and friendly. When they spoke of him, they said ‘Sheikh Zayed is