The UAE mourns Peter Hellyer. The UK born writer and journalist who dedicated his career to documenting the history and development of the United Arab Emirates, has passed away at the age of 75. He was a highly respected figure in the UAE and made significant contributions to the country’s media and cultural landscape.
Peter Hellyer was not only known for his writings but also for his involvement in various cultural and archaeological endeavors. He played a role in the establishment of the state-run WAM news agency, where he helped establish the English service. Additionally, he contributed to the discovery of several historical sites, including the 1,400-year-old Christian monastery uncovered in the early 1990s.
His efforts and commitment to the UAE were recognized by the government, as he was granted UAE citizenship and received the country’s highest civilian honor. His contributions to the English-language newspaper, The National, where he worked as a columnist, were also highly regarded.
His funeral embodied what Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs, said of him: “The Englishman who loved the UAE until he became one of its sons.”
Among those who attended the funeral and memorial service were Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Culture and Youth; Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi; Mubarak Al Nakhi, Undersecretary of Ministry of Culture and Youth; and Lt.-Colonel Staff Pilot Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad bin Hamdan.
Our thoughts are with Peter Hellyer’s family, friends, and colleagues during this time.
He authored many books on the UAE’s archaeological heritage and environment. Fujairah: The Arabian Jewel