Peter Hellyer, legendary UAE historian, passes away

The renowned UAE historian, writer and journalist Peter Hellyer passed away at the age of 75 on July 2, 2023. UAE Minister of State Zaki Nusseibeh has confirmed that the renowned historian passed away at the Cleveland Clinic in Abu Dhabi following an illness. Peter Hellyer made an invaluable contribution to the annals of the United Arab Emirates.

Hellyer came to the Emirates in 1975 as a documentary filmmaker. He has worked in public relations and was editor-in-chief of the daily Emirates News. Peter Hellyer was granted UAE citizenship in 2010 and later, in 2013, he was awarded the most honourable badge an emirate citizen can receive, the Abu Dhabi Medal. The prestigious award was given for his outstanding work in identifying significant archaeological sites in the UAE.

Wam News Agency also mourns the death of a prominent historian and UAE citizen, as Peter Hellyer contributed significantly to the establishment of the agency itself and was the founder of its English-language department.

Hellyer spent more than 50 years devoted to the environmental and archaeological heritage of the UAE. He has written numerous books and papers on the country’s history and wildlife, as well as several government yearbooks. In addition, the historian has been particularly involved in the excavation of the Christian monastery discovered on Sir Bani Yas Island, which was built in 600 AD.

According to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, Peter Hellyer was an Englishman who fell in love with the UAE and became one of its sons.

Source: Khaleej Times

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