From Rags to Riches : The Story of Abu Dhabi Paperback – January 1, 1995

This is the first history book I read that was not written by a historian. Historians often document history that has been shaped by the politics of the time. It is so refreshing to read history through the eyes of an individual that lived it. In general, historical accounts are influenced by the writer's bias, either a historian influenced by the research documentations that have already been shaped by the politics or an individual relaying their own personal perception of historical accounts. However, I find that the naiveté that comes through from the author in this book, a strong sentiment to the integrity of information and historical stories recited in this book. This book made me develop a great admiration to this country and its people.

I was traveling for work and found this book to be a great introductory primer to a country I had no real experience with previously! The author clearly displays his biases, but not in a way to distract from giving a clear picture of how Abu Dhabi developed.

I recently traveled to Abu Dhabi and was given this book as a gift. It was a wonderful surprise. The book covers the history of Abu Dhabi--both the far past and the recent past. It is particularly interesting from the 1950s and beyond. The author, Mohammed Al-Fahim, grew up in Abu Dhabi during this period. The reader experiences the period through the author's eyes. Mr. Al-Fahim's bitterness sometimes comes through--and rightly so. For example, his mother died in childbirth when she was only 30. Her death would have been preventable if proper medical attention were made available. He blames the British for exploiting the region and its people without giving much in return for a long time. But the book is extremely well-balanced. He also blames previous rulers for being reluctant to improve living conditions to the same standards of the rest of the world. However, Mr. Al-Fahim is extremely fond of Sheikh Zayed whom he knew well and who did much to improve the lot of his people. Anyone interested in the Middle East, the politics of oil, and how moderate Islam can live harmoniously with the West should read this book.

Good history of an amazing place.

If you are suddenly bumping into those fabulous, glittering places like Dubai and Abu Dhabi on Facebook or travel promos and wondering where they came from, this book is for you. The United Arab Emirates where they are located was only birthed as a nation in 1971, so it may not have even been on the map when you were in school. This fascinating tale by a close childhood associate of the royal family gives you the inside scoop on how this marginal, third-world handful of unknown tribal people suddenly became international business tycoons, and shows how their visionary leader, Sheikh Zayed, paved the way for their amazing integration into the modern world. It is a fascinating "must read" for anyone with even a passing interest in modern Arab life in the Persian Gulf region.

My daughter and son-in-law just moved to Abu Dhabi. We all read this book before they moved, and it has given all of us a better understanding of, and respect for their new culture.

I read this book before I visited Abu Dhabi and it gave me a wonderful overview. The UAE is a facinating country!

Amazing book. The story about having no pockets really makes you think how far they have come in so little time.It makes one appreciate what America has built.