Rare photos of Abu Dhabi from 60 years ago offer a glimpse into the past

In the early 1960s, Abu Dhabi was on the cusp of a monumental transformation, as captured in a striking photograph taken by oil engineer Alan Horan. The image depicts a camel train carrying firewood across the Al Maqta causeway, a vital link between Abu Dhabi island and the mainland. This causeway, built just a few years earlier, symbolized the changing times as the oil exploration drive gathered pace.

Mr. Horan, who arrived in Abu Dhabi in 1960, vividly recalls the untouched beauty of the island city. He describes Abu Dhabi as an island surrounded by creeks with extensive coral reefs, where traditional barasti-style dwellings and mud houses dotted the landscape. The town’s reliance on brackish water from local wells, and the import of slightly better water from Dubai, highlighted the scarcity of this precious resource.

During his time in Abu Dhabi, Mr. Horan also ventured to Al Ain, where he met Sheikh Shakhbout and marveled at the clear mountain spring water flowing through the falajes. The journey to Al Ain, then a night’s camp amid rolling sand dunes, offered moments of complete silence and tranquility, a stark contrast to the bustling city life.

From Dubai to the Liwa oasis, Mr. Horan’s travels across the UAE captured the essence of a nation on the brink of change. Images of Dubai Creek bustling with abras and advertisements, and the vast desert landscapes of Liwa, painted a picture of a country steeped in tradition yet embracing modernity.

As Abu Dhabi’s oil industry began to flourish, Mr. Horan played a pivotal role in its early development. His return in the 1970s as the general manager of ADMA-OPCO marked another chapter in his illustrious career. Recognized for his contributions, Mr. Horan was awarded an OBE for his services to British commercial interests in Abu Dhabi.

Now, in a gesture of preservation and legacy, Mr. Horan has donated his extensive collection of over 200 photographs to the UAE’s National Library and Archives. These photographs, meticulously restored and safeguarded for future generations, offer a glimpse into a crucial phase in Abu Dhabi’s history.

“I am honored that my slides showcasing the early days in Abu Dhabi are now part of the National Library and Archives,” said Mr. Horan. “My time serving Abu Dhabi holds a special place in my heart, and I am grateful to have been a witness to the remarkable transformation of this city.”

As the UAE continues to safeguard its history through initiatives like the Arabian Gulf Digital Archive, Mr. Horan’s photographs stand as a testament to the resilience and evolution of Abu Dhabi, capturing a bygone era that paved the way for the modern metropolis we see today.