The relationship between people in this part of the world and the desert has always been a strong one. Even after the rapid urbanisation of the UAE, people continue to visit the desert in their leisure time to enjoy its special feel. Maintaining this relationship, even when most of us now live amid the comforts of our cities, has always been important to our leadership.
The most recent manifestation of this is the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre at Al Ain Zoo. As The National reported yesterday, Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed, deputy chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council, paid tribute to the late Sheikh Zayed's strong emotional connection with the desert, to which he travelled regularly for peace and solitude.
The centre will not only help ensure a strong relationship with the desert among young Emiratis, but will also instil in visitors from all countries an understanding and respect for a harsh environment in which people have long found sustenance and solace.
