Time Frame: The forerunner to National Day

Before the formation of the UAE in December 1971, it was the custom to celebrate the accession of Sheikh Zayed as Ruler of Abu Dhabi.

This image shows the parade held to honour Sheikh Zayed in 1969, the third anniversary of his rule.

It is a snapshot of where the city was at the end of the 60s. The first streets and concrete buildings were just beginning to rise, and it was entirely appropriate that many of the vehicles in the parade were related to construction.

As with this Dodge truck, many carried messages offering their congratulations to Sheikh Zayed.

On November 29, 1971, the parade was held for the last time, just three days before Abu Dhabi become part of the United Arab Emirates, and Sheikh Zayed its President.

The following year, the whole nation had a new celebration; National Day.

*James Langton