The political turning point in Abu Dhabi came in 1928 with the selection of Shakhbut Bin Sultan, a grandson of Zayid the Great, as the new Ruler. This heralded the coming to power of a new generation, headed by a man who had the support of his uncles and brothers as well as wide backing within the family. There was a general weariness resulting from the turmoil and disorder of the immediate past and a hope that peace could be restored. This desire was evident to the Arab Residency Agent in Sharjah who visited Shaikh Shakhbut immediately after his accession as Ruler. He noted, “Sheikh Shakhboot and the notables of Abu Dhabi came on board. The Captain asked them about the state of affairs in Abu Dhabi territory. They said that there was tranquillity and peace.”

The new Ruler had many positive qualities. He was amiable, soft-spoken and had an engaging personality. Importantly, Shaikh Shakhbut had the committed support of his three brothers, for their mother Shaikha Salamah had made them all take an oath not to act against each other. That fraternal solidarity gave a crucial strength to the new leadership in Abu Dhabi, which soon became a pillar of stability in an area under the constant stress of change. It was further strengthened by the absence of any disruptive contention within the ruling family, and by the fact that Shaikh Shakhbut had the support of his uncle Khalifa Bin Zayid, the senior surviving son of Zayid the Great.