Abu Dhabi, the largest emirate of the UAE, is also the namesake of the city that serves as the capital of the UAE. Its name, meaning 'Father of Gazelle,' gives a hint to its origin story. In 1761, a hunting party led by Sheikh Dhiyab ibn Isa Al Nahyan began in Liwa and followed a gazelle to a brackish spring on the island. The discovery would soon spur a settlement of 400 homes and a fort know as Qasr Al Hosn to protect the fresh water well. Qasr Al Hosn would become home to Shakhbut bin Dhiyab Al Nahyan, the ruling Sheikh of Abu Dhabi. Jumping forward, the city would primarily be known for its booming pearling industry from the late 19th to early 20th century. The Persian Gulf, known for its beautiful pearls, would attract divers to search the gulf's floor to find hidden treasure. The divers would brave the water without air tanks, only bringing leather coverings to protect their fingers and toes. The next big transition would come in 1936 with the discovery of oil. In collaboration with British oil companies, Abu Dhabi would begin extracting and selling its vast reserves of oil on world markets. The emirate would enter its next chapter in 1968 when the British announced it would end its protectorate status over the Trucial States. The Sheikh of Abu Dhabi, Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, would play a key role in the next phase of the Emirate's future. A union would officially take form on 2 December 1971, known as the United Arab Emirates. Looking towards the future, the wealth generated from the oil was used to help accelerate the development and diversification of Abu Dhabi into the sprawling metropolis we see today. The city is home to many unique sites with things for everyone to see. We have been able to enjoy many sites throughout the city in our time here and would recommend a visit for anyone interested!