HISTORY

UAE has an ancient history. Civilizations flourished here 5000 years ago.  Arab tribes who had migrated from different parts of the Arabian Peninsula comprised the community.

In the mediaeval times, the Arabian Gulf rose to prime importance as a crossroad between Europe and East Asia which was a big source of supplies of silk and spices to the Europeans.  The Portuguese sent their military fleet to capture this strategic position and occupied Sukatra, Muscat, Sahar, Khor Fakkan, Ras-Al-Khaimah and Hormuz Strait.

The Portuguese were routed and forced to withdraw after 100 years. Other colonial powers too started competing with each other to gain control over this area.

The British wanted to control the sea-routes to safeguard their trade with India. The Qawasim tribe offered fierce resistance to what they saw as an invading foreign power and frequently attacked British ships. The British retaliated by attacking and burning the coastal towns. A unique permanent treaty was signed in 1853 with the British to end fighting in the Gulf. This Perpetual Treaty of Maritime Truce is the only one of its kind in the world.  It allowed the British to look after the foreign affairs and external defence of the Trucial States without interfering in the internal affairs of the emirates.

Grand Tour of Arabia
Egypt, Dubai & Jordan a la Indiana Jones

12 days in Egypt , Dubai and Jordan, Including Petra

 

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