In 1940s and 50s Dubai's People earned their living in a variety of ways. Here a Dubaian works in his Barasti Hut. It is not clear what he is doing but involves cutting with all the knives around. Baskets are similar to those used to transport fish. NOTE Photos in this section have been provided by Ahmed Bin Lahej (Dubai)

Children playing in the shade of the tree: 1960s

Camels have always held an important place in Dubai People's lives.In 1940s and 50s Camels will have provided transport and food.

People lived in Huts made from woven Palm Fronds called Barasti Huts. These provided shade and were cool in summer but afforded little protection from the weather. Barasti Huts were still used in 960s and early 1970s but development of Government Housing and growing wealth meant Dubai's People prefered concrete and brick to Palm Fronds for their protection.

He appears to be building or repairing a mud roof. Mud Roofs were used on Old Dubai's buildings.

Tailors have always been in demand in Dubai. In 1940s and 50s they will have produced clothing for Dubai's People. Today they still provide clothing for Dubaians but Expatriates and Tourists are also among their clientele.

Here a young Dubai girl tends a goat herd with (presumably) her mother. Dubai women's lives have changed over the past 50 years. Education and job opportunities for Dubai Women in modern Dubai means goat herding is no longer a preferred career path.

Probably carrying fresh water which was rare commodity in the 1940s and 50s.

Appears to be handling a leather saddle

Maybe they are planning a desert hunt. Note the ancient rifle which Bedu Arabs usually carried with them. Today these rifles have found their way into Dubai's Antique Shops.

Ladies and Girls from a Dubai Household dressed in their traditional finery. Today they will probably prefer to wear clothes from one of the many Exclusive Designer Stores located in New Dubai's Shopping Malls.

Dubai's people will have seen few Westerners in the 1940s and 50s and even fewer Western women. Here local ladies show their curiosity.

This was a common sight in Dubai until the early 1970s.

Waiting!

A Group of Dubai's People