Beautiful glossy press photograph of the Souk al-Markazi, or Blue Souk, in Sharjah. The impressive building was designed by British architects Michael Lyle & Partners, and completed in 1978. Meant to ressemble a traditional bazaar, it is one of the most iconic buildings in Sharjah, and serves as the main shopping centre. The present photograph of the souk was taken in January 1980 for the Sunday edition of Associated Press News (APN). It accompanied an article by Elias Antar (dates unknown) about the United Arab Emirates. The description by APN that would have come with the photograph when it was requested for use, is included on the back.
The lower right corner of the photograph is slightly creased, without affecting the image. Otherwise in very good condition.