Time Frame: Flags raised high at the first National Day parade

• 

• 

The UAE marks its 45th National Day over this long weekend and celebrations began a week ago.

Fireworks; concerts; heritage events; and even free Wi-Fi in Dubai are all part of the festivities. But years ago, celebrations were a bit more modest, although certainly no less important.

In this photo taken by British oilman John Vale, we see the very first National Day parade held in Abu Dhabi.

Local companies led the way, with a sign in Arabic for Al Saad factories displayed in the truck at the front. A procession of other vehicles follows, including a Volkswagen camper van and a theatrical looking-float holding up the back.

Residents walk alongside and rows of distinctive red Abu Dhabi flags fly proudly on each vehicle.

The as yet unmarked road is bordered by sand on both sides – a reminder of how far the country had come in such a short space of time.

* John Dennehy