Prior to 1971, what were the primary economic activities in the Trucial States?

The primary economic activities in the Trucial States prior to 1971 revolved around fishing, pearling, and trade. The region, which comprises the current United Arab Emirates, had a long-standing tradition of these activities due to its geographical location along the Arabian Gulf. Fishing was essential for sustenance and local commerce, while pearling was a significant industry, as the Gulf's waters were rich in natural pearls, which were highly valued in trade markets.

Trade played a crucial role as well, with the Trucial States serving as a vital hub for merchants and traders from across the region, fostering interactions with surrounding countries. This combination of fishing, pearling, and trade formed the economic backbone of the Trucial States before the discovery of oil, which dramatically changed the region's economy after 1971. The activities listed in other options, such as oil drilling and refinement, and tourism and hospitality, became prominent only after the oil boom, while textile production and agriculture were less significant compared to the maritime activities that defined the pre-1971 economy.