Maggs Bros.

A well-illustrated survey of Sharjah in 1970, displaying the rapid development of the Emirate and its ambitions for the future. Two remarkable aerial views (p.24 and 25), one taken in 1968 and the other in 1969, show the astonishing rate of change.

Published by the Middle East Economic Digest, it was clearly aimed at potential foreign investors and makes every effort to highlight Sharjah’s openness to international finance and business: “Sharjah’s liberal policies are undoubtedly producing results: about a dozen major international contractors have established themselves in the state, and there are at least another 70 medium-sized and small foreign companies.” (p.32). Various adverts attest to that growing commercial and industrial presence, from those of Western banks to businesses that originated in the region, such as Ibn Sina Pharmacy and Jashanmal & Sons.

The booklet also contains sections on history, urban growth, the airport, communications, agriculture, justice and tourism.