The Desert Between the Past and Modernity (The UAE as a Model)

Researcher Manal Dawoud Musa (pp. 32–50)

Abstract

History is civilization in one of its meanings. History and civilization are synonymous, carrying the story of man to populate the land on which he grew up and established his civilization. Given the natural and environmental conditions of the desert, man and nature are deeply intertwined, as history is intertwined with geography. The environment plays a crucial role as a basic factor in life, especially in establishing civilizations, including those that arose from the desert. This research examines the significant role the desert has played throughout history in shaping civilizations and states, using the United Arab Emirates as a model. It analyses how the UAE emerged from the heart of the desert, utilizing its resources and values to create a prosperous, civilized state. The study also explores how the UAE balanced modern development with preserving its ancient Arab heritage, authentic desert characteristics.

key words: History, Civilization, Desert, UAE, Heritage, Development, Resources, Geography