Abu Dhabi's Al Maqta Bridge - in pictures

  • In 1968, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the UAE, prepares to pray on Al Maqta Bridge, accompanied by one of his most trusted advisers, Ahmed Al Suwaidi. Photo: National Archives
    In 1968, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the UAE, prepares to pray on Al Maqta Bridge, accompanied by one of his most trusted advisers, Ahmed Al Suwaidi. Photo: National Archives
  • Before the bridge was built, people had to use this causeway. Photo: David Riley
    Before the bridge was built, people had to use this causeway. Photo: David Riley
  • The bridge has been expanded since it first opened. The National
    The bridge has been expanded since it first opened. The National
  • The bridge was decorated with lights to celebrate the UAE turning 50 last year. Victor Besa / The National
    The bridge was decorated with lights to celebrate the UAE turning 50 last year. Victor Besa / The National
  • Al Maqta Bridge is now being transformed once more. Photo: Abu Dhabi Municipality
    Al Maqta Bridge is now being transformed once more. Photo: Abu Dhabi Municipality

Most popular today

1

Sam Elliott: ‘I’m not sure there are many American men left to look up to’

2

Cartoon for January 19, 2026

3

My Ajman Rent: Italian swaps life in Dubai for Dh36,000 three-storey townhouse

4

President Sheikh Mohamed arrives in India to begin working visit

5

Joy Awards 2026 winners list: Mohammed Fadl Shaker, Forest Whitaker, Millie Bobby Brown, Angham and more

6

Residents asked to pay Dh945 a month for parking second car in Dubai's Discovery Gardens

7

Musk clashes with Ryanair boss over SpaceX's Starlink internet

8

Register now for The National’s award-winning journalism – free and tailored to you

9

My Dubai Salary: ‘From not knowing English at my first job, I now earn Dh200,000 a month in real estate'

10

Residents in Dubai's Discovery Gardens call for cut in ‘unfair’ Dh945 monthly fees for parking second car