Having implemented an intensive program to promote loyalty, belonging and national values
The National Library and Archives concludes its engagements with schools in welcoming the new academic year

The National Library and Archives concluded its activities involving welcoming the new academic year (2023-2024) with Abu Dhabi schools. The program included a range of educational and recreational activities and events which received great interaction from students of all academic levels. It aimed to enhance belonging to the homeland and loyalty to its wise leadership, consolidate the values of national identity, spread happiness among students, encourage them to acquire knowledge and achieve their goals to be able to hold high the nation’s flag in the future to be a world leader concurrently with the UAE Centennial 2071.
The National Library and Archives organized various activities for students in their schools including cultural workshops on national identity, and artistic workshops focusing on national songs and drawing national items, chiefly the UAE flag. There were also reading workshops on educational booklets issued by the National Library and Archives, such as “Zayed from Challenges to Union”, “Khalifa, A Journey into the Future”, “The Two Heroic Leaders”, “Qasr Al Hosn”, and others.
The events also included lectures on the UAE Centennial 2071, Emirati values, tolerance in the UAE, and the UAE as the homeland of sustainability. Among the most prominent lectures are The Founding Fathers and their Role in Building the Union, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed: The Best Successor to the Best Predecessor.
The National Library and Archives’ activities for this year were suitable for various school stages starting from kindergarten to secondary schools.  They were broadcasted through applications directly from the schools in which they were held to multiple schools across the UAE to promote their scientific and cultural benefit.
The activities confirmed the National Library and Archives’ role as a partner in the sound national upbringing of generations, and in informing them of its role in preserving and making available the memory of the nation. These activities also contributed to instilling happiness in students’ hearts as kindergartens and early-stage schools received and appreciated the NLA’s colorful cartoon characters, Hamad, Hessa and Grandfather. They caught children’s attention and created a fun and positive school environment.

Organized by Masaryk University in the Czech Republic in early September
The National Library and Archives participates in the 10th International Conference on Languistics Studies
The National Library and Archives participates in the 10th International Conference on Linguistic Studies, which is organized by Masaryk University in the Czech Republic from on September 4th & 5th, 2023, with a research paper entitled “Linguistic and translation dilemmas facing Emirati university students in comprehending contemporary literary texts: an applied study”. This comes within the framework of the National Library and Archives’ interest in translation as a bridge between civilizations through which information contributing to the growth of knowledge and culture is expressed.
Presenting the research paper, Professor Siddiq Gohar, a translation expert at the National Library and Archives, sheds light on the linguistic dilemmas facing UAE university students, with the aim of overcoming them, and raising a generation of translators who are familiar with the different aspects of translation processes. This will enable the crossing of cultural boundaries between languages and contribute to creating a future in which the United Arab Emirates aspires to become a global reader.
The scientific paper discusses the translation of contemporary texts and learning foreign languages. It addresses the difficulties and challenges faced by students of language departments in several UAE universities in comprehending, understanding, and translating contemporary literary texts due to the stylistic and textual complexities as well as linguistic and grammatical ambiguities of the texts in most university curricula.  The study aims to find solutions to raise linguistic and analytical competence and enhance students’ critical thinking skills.
The research also discusses addressing lexical problems that are part of learning of foreign languages, as most studies have prioritized areas of research in linguistic and grammatical sciences directing less attention to lexical studies and their various entanglements. The research confirms that lexical dilemmas are among the most important obstacles to learning foreign languages. The problem lies in how to choose words and phrases for effective communication on a large scale.
The research concludes that students’ lack of sufficient knowledge of the semantic ranges of vocabulary and other lexical elements in the mother tongue or in the acquired language is to blame. It leads to serious errors that hinder the development of their language skills and their critical and creative abilities.

The National Library and Archives adds historical and heritage aspects to the Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition

The National Library and Archives participated in the 20th edition of the Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition, held under the theme Sustainability and Heritage, A Reborn Aspiration. It shed light on the heritage sports and the related interest of the UAE sheikhs and leaders documenting their keenness on sustaining them. Through this participation, the National Library and Archives confirms its role in preserving the UAE’s ancient heritage.
The National Library and Archives provides the public with the opportunity to learn about important aspects of the UAE’s heritage and the wise leadership’s interest in sustaining this heritage of which the nation is proud. Thus, it provides the Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition, which has become a distinguished cultural, heritage and economic festival, with the documented historical aspect in hunting and equestrian.
The National Library and Archives enriched its platform with a plethora of historical photographs. They illustrate the UAE sheikhs and leaders’ interest in heritage sports, hunting and equestrian affairs, and depict them practicing these authentic hobbies inherited from parents and grandparents.
There are three large screens in the platform of the National Library and Archives, one of which displays documentaries on Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his sons on falconry trips, giving ample details about this heritage sport.
The second screen informs the exhibition visitors about the Arabian Gulf Degital Archive (AGDA) and its importance as one of the sources of historical scientific research that the National Archives and Library makes available on the Internet.  AGDA offers thousands of important and original historical documents about the history of the UAE and the Gulf, in addition to many virtual exhibitions. It documents Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s achievements, especially during the early years of assuming the reins of Al Ain in 1946. It also chronicles his efforts with his fellow rulers of the Emirates in establishing the United Arab Emirates and the beginning of its renaissance and displays the most important documents related to historical events in the Gulf region.
Through the third screen, visitors will learn about the global archival event, the International Council on Archives Congress, which will be hosted by Abu Dhabi under the theme “Enriching Knowledge Societies” from 9-13 October 2023. It is the first of its kind in the Arab region and the Middle East. It will deal with contemporary and future archival topics and issues and offer the opportunity to the exchange of innovative and sustainable ideas. The subthemes that will be discussed in the ICA Congress are:  Peace and Tolerance, Emerging Technologies – Records and Electronic Solutions, Trust and Evidence, Access and Memories, and Sustainable Knowledge and Sustainable Planet, Archives and Climate Change.
The National Library and Archives provides the public with the opportunity to view its publications documenting the history and heritage of the United Arab Emirates and the Gulf region.
On a large panel, the National Library and Archives displays its most important services provided to researchers and to the archival units in archival institutions in the country. It also displays the NLA’s other services which include providing the said parties with its publications, diagnosing and organizing archives, providing advice, and considering the destruction of useless documents.

In line with the National Library and Archives’ keen interest in building upon previously achieved success and excellence, it announces its preparation for its Fourth International Translation Conference under the slogan " Pushing New Boundaries: Translation and Building Knowledge Societies"

The National Library and Archives announced its preparation for the fourth edition of its International Translation Conference, which will be held under the slogan " Pushing New Boundaries: Translation and Building Knowledge Societies", at its headquarters in Abu Dhabi from 23-24 April 2024.
 The National Library and Archives’ interest in that new edition of its International Translation conference stems from and is based on the success achieved in the three previous editions. It thus invites all parties interested in translation studies and its branches to participate in this specialized international conference.  
On this occasion, His Excellency Abdulla Majed Al Ali, Director General of the National Library and Archives, said: "Preparations have begun for organizing the fourth edition of the NLA International Translation Conference, after its previously proving great success in establishing a distinguished status and enriching cultural circles with its valuable outputs, through its rich sessions, important titles and topics that attracted various translation fields and branches’ interested Researchers, Academics and Specialists, and through its Peer-reviewed books which serve as a valuable reference in such fields’ related academic and scientific research.
H.E. stressed that the National Library and Archives’ relentless efforts reflect and come in line with the UAE’s keen efforts to encourage translation movement regionally and internationally as part of an advanced developmental and cultural project aimed at knowledge localization, dissemination and exchange, and at advocating and promoting scientific research in all translation fields and specializations, to promote inter cultural and civilizational dialogue and disseminate tolerance culture and values among all world nations.
H.E. added: "Since translation is one of the future society empowering mechanisms, and its progress and development is an essential factor and element of active and efficient knowledge societies, and its effective institutions reflect and serve as an accurate measure for any nations’ progress. The “Tarjamat” project under which this international conference is organized, in addition to the UAE related research and studies’ translations, establish the National Library and Archives as a key translation beacon and an effective institution that enhances translation in knowledge societies as aspired.
H.E. said: " I am pleased to invite all parties and concerned institutions interested in various translation studies and branches in the UAE and abroad to participate in this fourth edition of the International Translation Conference, to further achieve success and excellence to build on that achieved in the three previous editions, and to achieve the conference’s desired objectives in building knowledge societies that reflect a true picture of the future."
It is noteworthy that this fourth edition of the International Translation Conference shall discuss the received work-papers within its following designated topics: translation of ancient archives such as: British, Portuguese and Indian, the role of translation in compiling dictionaries, travel literature translations, machine translation and enriching scientific and medical libraries after the Covid 19 virus, Arab and Islamic heritage translations in Europe on the eve of the Renaissance, and the challenges of literary translations: translation of Gulf literature as a model, and the translation of International literature into Arabic: The Nobel Prize as a model, translation companies and professional ethics, translation for the people of determination in the artificial intelligence era, and the role of the UAE National Library and Archives in supporting the contemporary translation movement. 
Those who wish to participate or take part in this major event, may check all related details on the National Library and Archives’ website via the following link:
 https://www.nla.ae/ar/web/guest/w/

In celebration of the Emirati Women’s Day and within the context of its Cultural Season 2023,
The National Library and Archives organizes a seminar entitled “Emirati Women: International Achievements and Aspirations”

In celebration of the Emirati Women’s Day and within the context of its Cultural Season 2023, the National Library and Archives organized a seminar entitled “Emirati Women: International Achievements and Aspirations”, given its national and social responsibility. The seminar was also conducted in recognition of women’s efforts and role in building the society as they contributed to the achievement of the NLA’s objective, preserving the Nation’s memory.
H.E. Abdulla Majed Al Ali, Director General of the NLA, opened the seminar with a speech appreciating the role of women who enriched the UAE’s cultural and historical heritage while taking care of their families and fulfilling their duties. They efficiently succeeded in embodying the vision of the Founding Father Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nayan for building the society. He emphasized that women are an active partner in the march of development.
His Excellency said “Working side by side with men, the Emirati women proved that they are capable of achieving anything and that they are able to assume the responsibility in any position they occupy. Under the UAE’s wise leadership that empowers the Emirati women, the future holds great promises as women are engaged in examining the prospects of the future. They spare no effort in building the present; and they are a principal partner in the Nation’s march towards the next fifty years.”
The seminar, which was held at Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Hall at the NLA’s headquarters, was started by Dr. Aisha Bilkhair, Research Advisor at the NLA, who was a speaker as well. She said “The late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nayan honoured women and devoted attention to their education, given his belief that this would promote the level of development. He also believed in the importance of gender balance. In accordance with his directives, H.H. Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, began the Emirati women empowerment journey, providing an excellent model for how well the Emirati women can represent the UAE. Indeed, under the UAE’s wise leadership, the Emirati women were able to prove their competence and get involved side by side with men in the march of development and giving in our homeland. They had an honorable role abroad as well. Dr. Aisha pointed out that women took part in safeguarding and transferring the heritage, values and traditions to the new generations.”
The research advisor welcomed the speakers of the seminar, which was held in celebration of the Emirati Women’s Day under the slogan “We Collaborate for Tomorrow”.
Ms. Aisha Al Romaithi, Director of Research and Advisory Department at Trends Research and Advisory Center, spoke about the journey of the Emirati women empowerment. She highlighted the stages they went through starting from foundation. The prudent leadership considers building the human without discrimination as the Nation’s real wealth. Women and men are main partners in the march of development and building pursuant to Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s vision and belief in women’s ability and competence. That is why the wise leadership opens the door wide for women to perform their role in leading and implementing development programs. They have become an essential element in the empowerment stage. H.H. Sheikha Fatima Bin Mubarak “Mother of the Nation” is the greatest supporter of the Emirati women; Her Highness has introduced many initiatives and made enormous efforts to promote the status of the Emirati women and empower them.
Thanks to the sincere national efforts, the UAE ranked first regionally and 11th globally in the UN’s Gender Inequality Index. The UAE ranked at the top of the Arab and Islamic countries in the Women, Peace and Security Index for 2022.
Ms. Fawzia Mohammed Faridoon from Dubai Sports Council shed the light on the Emirati women’s role in development, giving and achievement. She indicated that the slogan of the Emirati Women’s Day emphasizes the fact that promoting sustainability requires collaboration between all society members and that the Emirati women are a strategic partner due to their main role in their families as well as their professional and societal roles. She, then, tackled their role in the field of sports and how the wise leadership supported women sports since the infrastructure of such sports requires certain type of privacy. She presented the incentive women sport awards, most prominently Sheikha Fatima Bin Mubarak’s award and mentioned names of some Emirati players who contributed to the UAE accomplishments in this vital field.
Ms. Asma Al Mammari, Professor of Islamic Studies, Society and National Identity at Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities, concluded the seminar by talking about women during Sheikh Zayed era and about H.H. Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak as a model of the Emirati women. She noted that one of the main aspects of development in the UAE is the role of women in public life. This started long ago when Sheikh Zayed and the rulers of the emirates showed interest in girls’ education just like the boys’, which laid a strong foundation for women’s advancement.
She added that Sheikh Zayed’s interest in women development is reflected by his directives to establish the first women association in the UAE in 1973 under the name of Abu Dhabi Women Association, which succeeded in attracting many women. One of its main objectives was promoting literacy.
Furthermore, Al Mammari highlighted aspects of H.H. Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak’s life, including her academic qualifications, titles and achievements in terms of women education and development, which led the Emirati women to be become an impressive example to be followed.

For employees at “Sharjah Documents and Archives Authority”

The National Library and Archives and concludes a training course in document preservation and restoration.

Based on its keenness to train and qualify archivists with the aim of preserving historical documents, taking care of them, preserving them in appropriate environments, organizing and classifying them in accordance with legal requirements and following the best scientific practices and rules, the National Library and Archives concluded a training course on “Techniques of Preservation and Restoration of Documents” organized for employees of the Sharjah Documents and Archives Authority at the Conservation and Restoration Center.

In the first week of the two-week training course, participants were given practical technical training in the restoration laboratory equipped with the latest equipment necessary to restore damaged documents and give old documents a longer life. Participants were also trained on the stages of document diagnosis and analysis before and after processing.

The course stressed the need to carry out sterilization, cleaning and complete cleansing of documents from mold and insects in the designated place, which is separate from the storage sites. The course also focused on methods of treatment of newspapers, maps, books, and negative image film since each form of documents has a specific method of preservation and processing.

During the second week of the course, the participants were briefed on ways to save documents, books, multimedia and maps. The training course also provided an introduction to the means of receiving the preservation requests, instructions for inspecting the technical conditions of archive preservation, and calculating storage spaces in line with the procedures followed in the National Library and Archives.

Moreover, Sheikha Al-Qahtani, Head of the Conservation and Restoration Department, Sheikha Al-Sawafi, an archives specialist, and Shaima Al-Amiri, an archive specialist delivered lectures and presentations in the course. The National Library and Archives continues to cooperate with the archives of local and federal government and with the concerned authorities in many specialized activities and events, with the aim of qualifying archivists to preserve the memory of the nation according to modern methods and advanced technologies.
 

From Nabati poetry as a source of history to the creative economy and its developmental aspects in the UAE
The National Library and Archives enrich the new issue of "Liwa" with Sheikh Zayed’s Equestrian and Hunting Trips in the UAE
The National Library and Archives issued the 29th issue of the historical and scientific refereed Liwa journal. This issue is full of Arabic and English research on the UAE’s glorious history and ancient heritage to enrich the knowledge of readers and those interested in the history, heritage and antiquities of the United Arab Emirates, the Arabian Gulf region and the Arabian Peninsula.
The first research in new issue of Liwa is entitled "Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan's Equestrianism". It touches on his pioneering role in spreading this sport, which was one of his hobbies, and takes readers on a tour of his stables in the city of Al Ain, the Amiri stables in Abu Dhabi, and the old horse racing tracks in Al Ain. It also sheds light on and Sheikh Zayed's interest in purebred Arabian horses, and researcher Adel Mohammed Al-Amoudi monitors endurance races and the UAE President’s Cup World Series for purebred Arabian horses.
The second research by Dr. Aisha Al Falasi is entitled "Hunting Trips in the UAE: Memories and Events". It confirms that falconry is a cultural heritage that has been passed down through generations throughout history and civilizations and has spread and developed in the Arabian Peninsula. The research sheds light on hunting in Arab culture and in Emirati history. It includes an interview with Ali Musabeh Balqizi, who practiced falconry in the prime of his youth, and subsequently gained a vast experience about falcons, in addition to skills such as patience, wisdom and a spirit of adventure. The research indicates that falconry and its trips are an important part of the UAE's historical march, and this heritage has been added to the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It also indicates that orientalists, in their memoirs, spoke about falconry and their experiences in practicing it with the late leader and founder Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may God rest his soul.
Within the framework of cultural heritage came the third research entitled "Nabati Poetry as a Source of the History of the Gulf and the Arabian Peninsula" by researcher Ali Afifi Ali Ghazi. It reviews the origin of Nabati poetry, its features and purposes, types and importance as a historical source. It sheds light on the interest of Western explorers in collecting and preserving it. The research confirms that Nabati poetry remains an important source for the history of the Gulf and the Arabian Peninsula, as it depicts life in the desert and the city and informs us about aspects of life in the Gulf society.
The fourth research, written by Dr. Reda Sharif, documents the history of the "Al-Masaa market from prosperity to demolition". It points out that vendors established the market on both sides of Al-Masaa in Mecca, and it was full of various types of goods, commodities, and service crafts. This market was pulled down following the expansion of the Grand Mosque in Mecca in 1956. The research provided information about the market, its goods, food commodities, and its service crafts. It also enlightened the readers about the activities pilgrims conducted in the market and the Saudi expansion which led to its demolition.
In the fifth research, Dr. Salem bin Abdullah Al-Khalaf traced Tijani’s journey, which began in 1307, and shed light on economic activity in Africa. The research introduced the Tunisian Tijani and his journey, then touched on Africa’s agricultural wealth, water and crops. It also shed light on the livestock, products, markets and internal trade.
Dr. Ahmed Adel Zeidan wrote the sixth research entitled "The Creative Economy and its Developmental Dimensions in the United Arab Emirates". This economic research points out that the cultural and creative industries are currently among the fastest growing industries in the world as a sustainable development option based on a unique and renewable resource, which is human creativity.
The research defined the cultural and creative industries in terms of their origin and development, and their relationship to development, and the creative economy. It also defined the Orange Economy, which means a group of economic activities that combine talent and creativity, and highlighted the factors of creative and cultural industries, their main features, the requirements for their promotion, and their impact on the global economy. It reviewed this sector significance in the United States of America and in Europe.  It also focused on the UAE's interest in this sector, especially in its national strategy for cultural and creative industries.  The research also shed light on the Dubai Strategy for the Creative Economy, and the social, cultural, political and environmental returns of the creative industries.
The new issue of Liwa journal included three papers in English: The Development of Civil Navigation in the Arabian Gulf by Michael Morton, and Dubai's Methodology in Renaissance and Development by Dr. Mohammed Jamal. The third paper written by Dr. Ahmed Adel Zidan is entitled The Creative Economy and its Development Dimensions in the United Arab Emirates".  
 
 

The National Library and Archives receives senior citizens whom it holds in high esteem

In collaboration with the Department of Community Development in Abu Dhabi, the National Library and Archives organized a visit for the senior citizens and residents and volunteers to its headquarters within the context of the Generations Journey program. Historical photos of the some of the UAE’s leaders with senior citizens were presented, and a dialogue session was held between senior citizens and the youths. The visitors toured Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Hall.
This visit was organized pursuant to the NLA’s role in enhancing social responsibility and in appreciation of senior citizens and their notable contributions to the building and development of our homeland as well as due to the importance of the Generations Journey program, which aims to connect the youths with the elderly and accordingly enriching the youths’ experiences.
During the visit, A lecture was delivered by Hend Al Zaabi, Educational Programs Specialist at the NLA. She said: “The late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan established a nation based on happiness and citizen welfare. He took care of the young and adults, especially the elderly who received his respect, love and kindness and were provided with decent life.”
Hend Al Zaabi reported that H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, referred to the UAE elderly as senior citizens in recognition of their experience, giving and dedication to the UAE.
She highlighted the UAE government’s interest in senior citizens, including the provision of health care, social services, initiatives and other services.
The senior citizens had the opportunity to bring back their memories of education, pearl diving, agriculture and fishing. They pointed out that these environment-based professions were their source of living, and they reflect the Emirati people’s determination to face challenges. 
Later, visitors made a tour of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Hall, which highlights the past, documents the present and predicts the future. It contains the latest innovative technologies and presentation methods in order to present visitors with a knowledge capsule that enhances belonging to homeland and loyalty to the wise leadership, fosters national identity among generations and fascinates visitors with the UAE’s development and prosperity.

Having discussed means of cultural collaboration and distinctive experience exchange with various entities,
The National Library and Archives participates in the International Oral History Association Conference in Brazil
The National Library and Archives participated with a working paper in the International Oral History Association Conference, which was held in Rio de Janeiro. It reviewed aspects of the UAE’s society and focused on its values and principles and the role of the UAE’s leaders and sheikhs in establishing a powerful nation and a close-knit society.
The NLA’s visit to Rio de Janeiro aimed to activate the cultural collaboration and experience exchange and promote the intercultural dialogue between the UAE and the Federal Republic of Brazil.
In the International Oral History Association Conference held in Rio de Janeiro, Dr. Aisha Bilkhair, Research Advisor at the NLA, presented a paper entitled “African Diaspora: Narratives about Historical Transformations, Identity and Cultural Influence and Integration”. She highlighted the reality of the UAE’s society and the values that were passed down through generations since the pearl diving era. She also tackled some historical aspects and the virtue of tolerance, which is demonstrated by the UAE’s citizens and residents. In addition, the paper pointed out the societal value that enhances cooperation and peace, which set the UAE’s society apart from others and which enabled the UAE to host more than 200 nationalities seeking residence and work.
The Research Advisor encouraged the conference participants to take part in the major archival event, ICA Congress Abu Dhabi 2023, which will be held on October 9-13, 2023, and which will discuss contemporary and future archival themes and issues. It serves as a forum to exchange innovative and sustainable ideas on the themes to be discussed: Peace and Tolerance, Emerging Technologies: Electronic Records, Electronic Solutions, Trust and Evidence, Access and Memories, and Sustainable Knowledge, Sustainable Planet: Archives, Records and Climate Change.
Furthermore, the NLA’s delegation visited the Public Archive and Secretariate General of Culture in Rio de Janeiro, Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading and the National Library of Brazil and discussed with them means of exchanging successful and distinctive experiences.
The NLA’s delegation including Dr. Aisha Bilkhair and Mrs. Madya Al Meheirbi, an oral history researcher and Head of Youth Council, held a number of meetings in order to learn about the rare holdings including documents, manuscripts and books pertaining to the UAE and the Arab region. Moreover, the delegation discussed with the concerned parties at the Brazilian cultural entities means of collaboration in the field of translation, historical research and organization of mutual events that would achieve the targeted objectives. It visited prestigious government organizations such as Itamaraty Palace and Public Archive of Rio de Janeiro, the Brazilian National Archives, Royal Library and National Library of Brazil. In Sao Paulo, the delegation paid calls to the Public Archive, Museum of Portuguese Language, USP Library, Villa Lobos Park Library, etc.

The National Library and Archives Persues Its National Educational Programs in the Student Summer Camps

The National Library and Archives continues carrying out its program of the educational activities, in which it participates in the student summer camps. Within this program, it presented three educational and training workshops at Hind Bint Maktoum School in Dubai for students in the first and second grades, with the aim of enriching children’s knowledge of the deep-rooted history of the UAE and its proud heritage. This participation is in line with its social responsibility and the role it plays in the national upbringing of the new generations.
Ms. Ayesha Yousef Al Zaabi , Head of the Educational Programs Section at the National Library and Archives, started the first workshop titled: “A Fiction Story”. The students were divided into groups, and the members of each group wrote a short story. The stories were varied in which students used their imagination and it was clear that electronic games have had their impact on some of them. Most of the stories were realistic, among the most prominent ones are: Rakan in the Forest, A Day in my School, Me My Friend and our Electronic Game... and other stories.
After each group had read their story, the students discussed the stories and came up with a set of principles and values that they expressed in their own style. The supervisor stressed the importance of preserving school furniture, setting a short time for electronic games, keeping quite and benefiting from teachers.
In the second workshop, students competed attentively to win the “Al Masirah Game”, which was invented by the National Library and Archives to promote useful information. It is an innovative national game which its contents were taken the publications of the National Library and Archives. It is suitable for all ages. This educational game is considered an integrated knowledge unit that has information taken from the publications of the National Library and Archives. The game sheds light on the role of the Late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan in establishing the United Arab Emirates, its renaissance and progress and the values and principles that he was keen in instilling them in the hearts and minds of the UAE people. In addition to information about UAE values, the history and deep-rooted heritage, and diversed national cultural information.
The third workshop centered in reading; by presenting the story “Inspiring Childhood”, which is one of the outcome of “Zayed 100 Stories” initiative launched and sponsored by the National Library and Archives. Each of the students participated in reading a paragraph from it, after which questions were asked about Sheikh Zayed’s interests and his knowledge of the history of the UAE and its environment in detail.
The National Library and Archives is keen in continuing its rich and diversed program for a large number of the students in their summer camps in many schools in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Dubai, Kalba, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, Ajman... and other regions. This is coupled with organizing virtual summer camp programs for The Writers (71), which contribute in preparing the students to be the future writers by refining their talents in the field of literary writing.
 
 

Stressing that positive citizenship starts from individuals and their relationship with community and humanity,
The National Library and Archives enriches its Cultural Season 2023 with a seminar entitled “Positive Global Citizenship”

Within the context of its Cultural Season 2023, the National Library and Archives organized a seminar entitled “Positive Global Citizenship”. The seminar aimed to enhance the national and humanitarian values and principles that would move positive citizens to the global level instead of the local level according to the current situation. Since the world has become a small global village, the seminar focused on the role of the positive global citizenship in fostering sustainable development of the UAE, in particular, and the world, in general.
Fatima Sultan Al Mazaroui, Head of Historical Archives Section at the NLA, moderated the seminar in which a number of participants took part, including H.E. Yasser Al Gergawi, Director General of Sandooq Al Watan, H.E. Adviser Rashid Ibrahim Al Nuaimi from the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence, Brigadier General Mohammed Al Nabhani from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, Dr. Shafei Al Niyadi, Human Development and Family Relations Instructor, and Dr. Mariam Naser Al Zaidi from Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities. At the end of the seminar, Mr. Farhan Al Marzooqi, Director of Corporate and Community Outreach Department at the NLA, honored the participants.
H.E. Yasser Al Gergawi, Director General of Sandooq Al Watan, started the seminar with his paper, which defined positive global citizenship as individuals’ participation, awareness and understanding of certain duties and obligations that bring about integration and engagement in accordance with laws, standards and values that promote individual’s welfare, maintain global environment interests and fulfil public responsibility objectives through devoting attention to the world issues.
He confirmed that positive citizenship reflects the positive interaction with others, and every individual should be prepared for global coexistence, especially in our modern age that abounds in social media platforms, which make an individual a recipient and influencer. That is why an individual has to interact with the outside world and accordingly we have to instill the sense of responsibility in the generation.
Al Gergawi quoted the saying of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE: “Through its policy and example in the region, the UAE spreads positive messages of the importance of tolerance, coexistence and mutual development work to respond to many challenges that face us within the context of the international family”. He also quoted the saying of the Founding Father Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nayan: “Cooperation between people regardless of their religions and beliefs is the source of happiness. Cooperation connects everybody”.
His Excellency concluded his paper by reviewing Sandooq Al Watan’s efforts and role in achieving positive global citizenship.
Next, H.E. Adviser Rashid Ibrahim Al Nuaimi from the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence presented his paper. He shed the light on sustainability of human values and positive global citizenship. He began with the saying of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan: “To treat every person, no matter what his creed or race, as a special soul, is a mark of Islam”. He then discussed the concept of values, the UAE society’s values system, citizenship, the way to global citizenship, the positive global citizenship, tolerance and coexistence concept and the UAE’s efforts to promote positive global citizenship. He noted that citizens act as representatives of their countries abroad and that society members have to foster solidarity to achieve positive global citizenship in light of cultural openness.
He reviewed the stages the society went through starting from the family to the tribe, modern state and global citizenship. He stressed that the UAE strives to foster global citizenship while maintaining balance with the Emirati authentic values.
The Adviser Al Nuaimi tackled the 8th principle of the “Next Fifty Years Principles”, which states that the core value system in the Emirates shall remain based on openness and tolerance. He discussed the human economy, “We the UAE 2031” vision and the UAE Centennial 2071, a comprehensive and long-term vision. In addition, he presented the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence’s initiatives, which aim to promote positive global citizenship.
The Brigadier General Mohammed Al Nabhani from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security gave a speech on the impact of the positive global citizenship on sustainable development. He focused on three main topics: prudent government approaches, home and school, and general ethics and conduct. Moreover, he illustrated the government’s efforts to establish the foundations and principles of positive citizenship such as excellence programs and awards, strategic and operational plans, transformational projects and government accelerators, etc.
Furthermore, His Excellency highlighted the impact of positive global citizenship on sustainable development according to the UN’s 2030 Agenda along with its 17 goals, noting that the UAE has paid a huge amount of money in the form of humanitarian aids to all world countries. He also pointed out that we all have to respect our homeland’s right as H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan said: “The duty of loyalty and gratitude to a homeland that provides decent and happy life for all of its citizens and residents requires all of us to always keep it deep in our hearts”.
In his presentation on “The Role of Positive Citizenship in Supporting Sustainability”, Dr. Shafei Al Niyadi, Human Development and Family Relations Instructor, indicated that change starts from the individual so we have to instill patriotism among our children in order to ensure future prosperity, which means sustainability. We also have to encourage our children’s academic achievement since sustainability and patriotism can be achieved only by educated and aware people.
Al Niyadi, then, tackled the relationship between citizenship and sustainability. He indicated that such relationship lies in individual responsibility, societal engagement, awareness, environmental responsibility, sustainable use of resources, sustainable economy, social justice and international cooperation to face global challenges.
He pointed out that positive citizenship including sustainable economy, participation in sustainable initiatives, societal engagement, environmental and social awareness, etc. will foster social stability, dialogue and understanding, economic development, justice and human rights, the spirit of engagement, innovation and development, peace, stability and social integration.
On the other hand, Dr Mariam Naser Al Zaidi from Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities said in her presentation that positive citizenship was limited to the community level, but now it exceeded that level as it requires individuals to be good citizens not only in their communities but also in the humanitarian community at large.
She emphasized that as the world has become a small global village dominated by social media platforms, we have to demonstrate openness to ideas and deal positively with positive global citizenship since we cannot live in isolation from other communities.
Furthermore, she added: “Societies that have traumatic experiences and its members suffer from fanaticism, extremism and sectarianism cannot flourish and prosper”. She indicated the examples of Japan and Germany, which were able to gain an advanced position in the world and become one of the best destinations worldwide. This cannot be attained without achieving the positive global citizenship.
To show the importance of the international, individual and society role, Dr. Mariam provided the example of the Climate Change Conference (COP20), which requires all to participate in as it discusses the world climate issues. Climate change affects all people. That is why we have to be active as change starts from individuals.
She also gave another example that is Coronavirus pandemic. She wondered how an individual can live in isolation from the world. We saw how COVID19 appeared in a small area and then it spread all over the world. She then talked about citizenship and cultural integration, stressing the importance of maintaining authentic values and morals along with national identity. She showcased the efforts of the UAE to enhance positive global citizenship and those of Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities to promote tolerance and coexistence.
She concluded her speech by attaching great importance to positive citizenship in establishing responsibility. Individuals have to make good and valuable contributions in order to achieve development since development is achieved by individuals who have to perform their national duties with honesty.

The National Library and Archives participates in the 19th edition of the Liwa Date Festival with a historical photos and publications exhibition documenting the UAE interest in palm trees and environment. 

The National Library and Archives, in its pursuit to achieve its role in promoting the UAE heritage and environmental culture, participates in the 19th edition of Liwa Date Festival in Liwa, Al Dhafra, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court.  
The National Library and Archives participates in the festival with a historical photo exhibition, resuming the march of the Founder and Builder, the Late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and following in his footsteps to further promote and develop the agricultural sector. The exhibition documents the wise leadership's interest in palm trees as one of the key important elements of Emirati heritage.
The exhibition’s displayed historical photos documenting the Late Sheikh Zayed's interest in environment and agriculture and indicating the wise leadership’s interest in Liwa Date Festival which developed remarkably keeping abreast with the UAE witnessed development in various fields as reflected through the exhibition’s historical photos which are part of the National Library and Archives’ photo Archive’s holdings. 
In addition to the historical photos, the National Library and Archives displays its latest publications which provide documented information supporting and complementing the historical photo exhibition that reflect significant pages of Al Dhafra region’s history and heritage, and document the UAE's keen interest to establish and preserve the historical importance of palm trees, and pass this on to future generations.
The National Library and Archives historical photos and publications’ exhibition, presenting significant documented aspects of UAE history, attracted a large number of the festival’s visitors and participants.
 The National Library and Archives shall announce through its Liwa Date Festival platform the international archival event, namely: the International Council on Archives’ Congress, which will be hosted by Abu Dhabi from 9-13 October 2023, to discuss the most important current and future archival issues and challenges, as part of its pursuit to preserve world heritage and develop archives and archival business.
The National Library and Archives tackled through its platform the importance of the Arabian Gulf Digital Archive, which offers researchers and academics its online services along with authentic historical documents on the UAE and the Gulf region free of charge. It is noteworthy that the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s interest in agriculture was quite evident since he assumed the post of the Ruler's representative in the Al Ain.    
The National Library and Archives showcases, through its Liwa Date Festival platform, its provided services to researchers, the public, and to archival units in various UAE archival institutions including publication provision, Archives diagnostic assessment and organization, advice and diagnosis provision, and proper document disposal methods, among others.
It should be noted that the National Library and Archives publications reflect the keen interest in documenting the history and heritage of Al Dhafra region as a historical Emirati heritage area in which Emirati people take great pride. Its land carries many monuments of the UAE deep-rooted history, and is in the middle of civilizational centers, and their ancient heritage, beautiful natural reserves, and a fertile palm groves land, and a date trade center, which has currently become, under our wise leadership, a center for various major projects.