Author : John Nowell
ISBN# : 1 873544 85 5
128 pages, hardback

The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates – Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairh – sharing much in common while remaining distinct in themselves: their individual characters reflect a landscape that varies from seacoast to sand dunes to precipitous barren mountains and a population that is just as diverse. Drawing on his own wide experience of the country at ground level and from the air, John Nowell had created in this book a stunning portrait of the land, its people, their work and recreation.

A hot-air balloon flight over the desert at dawn leads into scenes of morning activity in the cities, villages and rural areas of the Emirates, drawing generously on the unusual perspective afforded by the “eye in the sky.

Traditional recreation and sports blend wit the modern, for which the country is becoming increasingly known; among them are camel-racing, dune-driving, falconry, golfing, horse-0rcing and the offshore spectacles of the powerboat and sailing dhow racing. The day draws to a close with the thoughtful photos of natural and man-made beauty.

A day Above the Emirates brings a new perspective to many subjects, both well known and not-so-well-know, while the many portraits add a pleasing immediacy to the book and an attractive face to this vibrant country.