National Library and Archives

With Traditional and Entertaining Activities and Decorations,
The National Library and Archives Celebrates the 54th UAE National Day
To commemorate the 54th UAE National Day, the National Library and Archives celebrated with a vibrant program of traditional and patriotic activities that embodied the spirit of the nation. The event welcomed staff and visitors, creating an atmosphere brimming with pride, unity, and honour.
On this occasion, His Excellency Dr. Abdullah Majid Al Ali, Director General of the National Library and Archives, affirmed that Union Day (Eid Al-Etihad) is a timeless milestone in the UAE’s national memory. It embodies the values of pride and joy and renews the spirit of belonging and giving. He noted that this day reflects the unity of hearts, bound by a sincere resolve to forge a proud and powerful nation.
His Excellency added that the anniversary of the Union recalls the historic moment when the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, along with his fellow Rulers of the Emirates, set in motion the story of the Emirati glory. From that day forward, a pioneering civilizational renaissance has propelled the nation into the ranks of the world’s most advanced countries, offering a development model for others to follow.
He also emphasized that Union Day is a renewed national occasion that inspires generations with a spirit of challenge and creativity, encouraging them to continue building the nation’s legacy by following in the footsteps of leaders whose achievements amazed the world. His Excellency recalled the efforts and noble contributions of the founding fathers and praised the role of the wise leadership that has carried the journey forward with determination and resolve. This leadership has elevated the UAE to advanced standing across various indicators of progress and prosperity.
On behalf of the National Library and Archives, His Excellency extended his warmest congratulations and best wishes to the wise leadership and the people of the UAE on this cherished national occasion. He affirmed the National Library and Archives’ commitment to fulfilling its mission of preserving the memory of the nation and its rich heritage. He added that it remains dedicated to keeping pace with the country’s achievements and maintaining a valuable record that inspires generations and supports the journey of building the future.

The National Day festivities were marked by engaging and high-spirited performances that strengthened national belonging and loyalty to the leadership. The occasion generated an atmosphere of joy and profound pride. The program featured traditional Emirati performances of Al-Taghrooda and Al-Azzi, presented by the acclaimed artist Mohammed bin Aziz Al Shehhi. Young students from Al Dhabyaniyah Kindergarten and School also gave excellent, well-received performances of patriotic songs and music. In recognition of their creativity and to promote continued excellence, they were honoured by the National Library and Archives.

The headquarters of the National Library and Archives was adorned with celebratory decorations, chiefly the national flag and the number 54. Patriotic songs and music filled the air throughout the venue, while the traditional and entertaining activities received wide and enthusiastic engagement from attendees, adding a vibrant layer of joy to the celebration.

National Library and Archives and Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority Organize a Joint Exhibition Reflecting Values of Tolerance and Human Coexistence

In cooperation with the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, the National Library and Archives organized a joint exhibition that reflects the deeply rooted values of tolerance and human coexistence in the UAE, in conjunction with the International Day for Tolerance.
Held at the Authority’s headquarters, the exhibition featured a wide collection of historical photographs documenting the UAE’s longstanding commitment to fostering a culture of openness and mutual respect among members of the community, as part of both entities’ efforts to raise societal awareness of the values of coexistence and cultural diversity.
The organization of the exhibition was the result of close coordination between the tolerance committees of both entities, which collaborated to prepare documentary content showcasing enduring national and humanitarian stances. The event also underscored the vital role of government institutions in promoting a culture of tolerance and building bridges of communication across different segments of society.
Both entities emphasized that the event reflects the UAE’s steadfast approach to upholding the principles of tolerance and moderation and aligns with the vision of the UAE’s wise leadership in positioning the UAE as a global model of coexistence and peace. It further supports national initiatives aimed at strengthening social cohesion.
Representatives from the tolerance committees of both organizations attended the exhibition where they reviewed selected photographs illustrating the UAE’s rich history of initiatives that promote coexistence and reinforce the principles of human fraternity, solidifying the the UAE’s status as an international hub for tolerance.
At the conclusion of the event, the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority honored the members of the NLA’s Tolerance Committee in recognition of their collaborative efforts.
In a related context, the NLA and the Authority organized a joint event titled “Al Ghaf, A Symbol of Tolerance in the UAE Community.” The event concluded with the planting of a Ghaf tree in the garden of the NLA, symbolizing the tree’s significance as an emblem of tolerance and coexistence in Emirati society.
Earlier, a meeting was held at the NLA to enhance institutional partnerships and exchange expertise between the tolerance committees, during which best practices for promoting a culture of tolerance at both the institutional and community levels were reviewed.

The National Archives and Library’s Cultural Season Highlights the Historical and Civilizational Heritage of Liwa Oasis

As part of its Cultural Season for 2025, the National Library and Archives organized a virtual seminar titled “Liwa… Land of the Golden Hills”, which explored the historical, cultural, and economic significance of Liwa Oasis as one of the most important oases in Al Dhafra Region and a historic home of the Bani Yas confederation.
In her opening speech, Mrs. Eman Al-Breiki, session moderator, emphasized Liwa’s importance as an economic hub, hosting some of major onshore oil and gas fields in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, in addition to its historical value and its association with the Al Bu Falah family, including Al Nahyan. She also highlighted Liwa’s natural beauty, characterized by towering sand dunes and settlements, Mahadir, surrounded by fertile oases with fresh water.
The researcher Shareena Saeed Al Qubaisi, Head of the Oral History Unit, delivered a documentary presentation based on interviews with several local narrators. She explored the Qayez, summer harvest, journey and up to 130 of Liwa settlements, Mahadir, highlighting aspects of the social and economic life, the roles of men and women, and the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s interest in cultivating Liwa.
Al Qubaisi also supported her presentation with photographs and detailed maps documenting Liwa’s historical sites, farms, Qayez caravans, and traditional activities.
Mr. Rashid Saeed Al Zaabi, a researcher from Trends Research and Advisory Center, presented a paper titled “Liwa: From Knowledge Dissemination to Knowledge Production”, which examined the oasis’s role in the knowledge economy, its cultural and heritage significance, and its contributions to food security and modern agricultural projects.
Al Zaabi highlighted the leadership vision for Liwa’s development, from Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s agricultural initiatives to the ongoing efforts of H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, who continues the Founding Father’s legacy by supporting the agricultural sector and promoting its contribution to the national economy. He proposed four mechanisms to enhance Liwa’s role in the knowledge economy including heritage digitization, applications of artificial intelligence, production of global visual content, and promotion of collaboration between research and cultural institutions.
In conclusion, the National Library and Archives affirmed that Liwa will remain a historical oasis of a steadfast national, heritage, and economic significance and a key component of the UAE’s journey toward a knowledge-based economy.