In pictures: the UAE's educational pioneers

June 3, 2013, Abu Dhabi, UAE: Abbas Ali Al Khoori is the CEO of Maqta Bridge Engineering. He is also one of the first UAE nationals to go abroad to study. As part of a larger feature The National went to Mr. Al Khoori's home to learn more about his studies in England. He had very fond memories of his host family, teaching 2 grown men how to swim, and trying Hagus for the very first time. He is seen here in his living room. Lee Hoagland/The National

One of Adel's most proud memories was setting up the UAE - Scottish Friendship Society, which met every six months in Falkirk. Photographed with British Petroleum training manager Bill Simpson at the signing ceremony in 1981.

Adel went to study in Scotland. He remembers one winter when the snow in Falkirk was so heavy, the students were sent home from college. The snow was so thick Adel struggled to find his way back to the house.

Adel, front right, and his fellow students were taken on an adventure course in Wales to help them settle in.

Adel and his fellow students on the course in Wales. It was an opportunity for the men to bond and to get to know their trainers

Adel opening a gift sent to his Falkirk home by his mother in Abu Dhabi for the Eid holiday.

Abbas, fifth from right, and his fellow students after landing at Heathrow Airport on July 8, 1972.

Abbas, second from right, and his Emirati student colleagues outside of London's Cavendish Square which was home to local offices of UAE oil companies.

Abbas, second from left, and his Emirati friends enjoying a day off in Hyde Park, London.

Abbas and his Fijian friend Naido, who taught him to drive in exchange for some money to buy a Ford Escort car. Abbas still has his UK driving licence which expires in 2024.

Abbas outside the home of his host family Mr and Mrs Taylor in Morden, London.

Adel Alkaff Al Hashmi, pictured, and Abbas Al Khoori were some of the first UAE nationals to go abroad to study. This gallery includes pictures looking back at their time as trailblazing students. Mr Al Hashmi is now a vice-president at GASCO. Pictures by???