Why in News?

A 1400-year-old Christian cross found on Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, along with similar artifacts in Iraq and Kuwait, highlights Gulf cultural harmony (Church of the East). 

• Largest island in Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra Region; became a nature reserve in 1971, now the Arabian Wildlife Park. 
• One of the earliest records from 1590 by Gasparo Balbi mentioned its pearl trade, lasting until the early 20th century.