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Video: Abu Dhabi's first attempt to explore oil 85 years ago

Abu Dhabi - Oil discovery transformed the UAE Capital's economy based on the pearl industry to one powered by oil.

Published: Mon 11 Jan 2021, 7:15 PM

Updated: Mon 11 Jan 2021, 7:21 PM

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(Screengrabs from a video tweeted by the Government of Abu Dhabi Media Office)

(Screengrabs from a video tweeted by the Government of Abu Dhabi Media Office)

(Screengrabs from a video tweeted by the Government of Abu Dhabi Media Office)

(Screengrabs from a video tweeted by the Government of Abu Dhabi Media Office)

(Screengrabs from a video tweeted by the Government of Abu Dhabi Media Office)

(Screengrabs from a video tweeted by the Government of Abu Dhabi Media Office)

Did you know that the UAE’s Capital first attempted to explore oil 85 years ago? After years of research, Abu Dhabi struck its first oil in 1958.

The discovery transformed the emirate’s economy based on the pearl industry to one powered by oil.


The Government of Abu Dhabi Media Office has shared a sepia-toned video that shows the Capital’s attempts to discover oil and the growth of the economy after.

It features the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan overseeing attempts and meeting several officials to brainstorm.

The attempt “reflected the dream of our founding fathers to transform Abu Dhabi into a leading global city”, the media office tweeted. “63 years on, we are proud of Abu Dhabi’s advanced economy, technological infrastructure and exceptional livability.”

This oil wealth “has been and continues to support the community and advance the emirate’s infrastructure”, the video says.

The discovery made Abu Dhabi “the emirate it is today — one of the best places in the world to live, work and invest”.



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