Highlighting the significance of safeguarding cultural heritage during the inaugural session,
The National Library and Archives participates in the First UAE Library Forum, praises its role in fostering a sustainable knowledge-based society.

Prompted by its focus on enriching knowledge societies, the National Library and Archives (NLA) took part in the first edition of the UAE Library Forum, organized by the Emirates Library and Information Association (ELIA). It reiterated its commitment to expanding collections of the National Library and its contributions to creating a sustainable knowledge society that promotes innovation and strengthens libraries’ roles in disseminating culture and knowledge.
Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi honoured the National Library and Archives in recognition of its dedication and contributions to the ELIA’s success.
The NLA’s participation in the First Emirates Library Forum, held at the Sharjah Book Authority’s headquarters, was showcased through a presentation on the Protection of Cultural Heritage by His Excellency Abdullah Majid Al Ali, the Director General. Given in the first session of the forum titled “Protecting Cultural Heritage and Creative Content: Issues and Solutions”, this presentation highlighted the objective of safeguarding cultural heritage. His Excellency emphasized its role as a key component of the memory of the nation and a symbol of cultural identity, which further emphasizes its cultural roots, historical background, and progress.
The presentation also touched on the NLA’s role in preserving cultural heritage, in collaboration with government agencies that have made significant efforts to enforce the legal mandates for the protection of cultural and creative heritage. This included the implementation of Federal Law No. (7) of 2008 on the National Library and Archives and its executive regulations aimed at the conversion and long-term preservation of historical archival materials.
He underscored the NLA’s interest in collecting intangible heritage and preserving it for future generations, urging students and researchers to focus on cultural heritage, and making it available through the NLA’s digital platforms, foremost of which is the Arabian Gulf Digital Archive Portal (AGDA). He further mentioned that the NLA records this heritage in its publications and also acquires books that detail it in the National Library.
He pointed out that the NLA’s activities continue to bring its beneficiaries closer to the memory of the nation. For this purpose, the NLA organizes lectures and seminars, and participates in major cultural exhibitions, in order to clarify the importance of heritage, the duty to protect it, and ways to benefit from it.
The NLA’s Director General examined how digital archiving aids in safeguarding cultural heritage by transforming physical documents and manuscripts into digital formats. This process helps mitigate the dangers of damage or loss caused by environmental conditions, reduces the amount of space needed for paper records, and makes ancient heritage accessible through satellite channels and digital platforms, thereby bolstering our cultural identity in the global age. He emphasized that digital archiving, regardless of its advanced capabilities and the use of artificial intelligence, does not imply the elimination of traditional archives. Instead, it works in harmony with them, extending their longevity. He outlined how this is accomplished by minimizing the need for manual handling and making storage more efficient, which eliminates the need for continuous physical access.
His Excellency focused on the importance of long-term preservation of cultural heritage using the new generation ultra-high-resolution nanotechnology PIQL film, for long-term conservation that lasts for about 2,000 years.
The presentation by the NLA’s Director General illuminated the importance of intellectual property protection and its role in the preservation and protection of cultural heritage.
The NLA showed its keen interest in this event, which aims to amplify the contribution of libraries in fostering culture and knowledge, explore new horizons for digital innovation and creativity in the rapidly growing library sector, and spotlight the initiatives of the Emirates Library and Information Association and its partners in elevating the role of libraries in the UAE community and improving their services to meet the demands of the contemporary age.

Conference Program Highlights the Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Archiving and Presents Distinguished and Specialized Archival Experiences and Research

The National Library and Archives (NLA) continues to host the events of the Sixteenth Conference of the Archival Education and Research Institute (AERI) in its headquarters. The sessions revolved around artificial intelligence and the possibility of using its applications in the archival sector, digital archiving and long-term storage, the revolution in digital preservation, and raising awareness about records management. Additionally, some successful and distinguished experiences in the field of archive preservation and accessibility were reviewed.

The sessions on the second day were characterized by a combination of the rich theorittical segment filled with information and the practical part that showcased  unique global experiences. This contributed to the exchange of expertise and experiences, enriching the knowledge of participants, specialists, and those interested in the archiving sector.

Mr. Hamad Al Mutairi, Director of the Archives Department at the NLA, praised the sessions for being rich in ideas and opinions that highlighted the benefits of applying artificial intelligence and modern technologies in the archival sector. He emphasized that these ideas and opinions have local, Arab, and global impacts, and that the discussions held at the conference enriched the field of archiving in general. From the lectures and sessions featured in the conference’s scientific program, a series of recommendations can be drawn, focusing on the solutions needed by professionals in this field due to their impact on developing archival work. This includes, in particular, the role of artificial intelligence and advanced technologies in processing and providing data in the most accessible ways for decision-makers and beneficiaries.

Al-Mutairi pointed out that the sessions touched on the latest technologies, key standards criteria and specifications that contribute to data analysis, offering many solutions to challenges posed by the growing volume of digital data, the output of social media platforms, and the management of the massive amounts of digital data. The the challenges include processing, analyzing its contents and making it acessible in ways that meet researchers’ needs.

The activities on the second day of the conference included a workshop on “AI in Archive: From Research to Education. The discussions also addressed the “Evo;ution and management of Archival Collections and policies”, and “Challenges and Opportunities of open access to Archived Artifacts in Open Distance Electronic Learning Institutions: A Case Study at the University of South Africa”.

Among the conference topics were: “Ingesting digital archives into long-term storage system through free open-source software in South Africa”, and “Resources sharing and growth of knowledge in the Academic Libraries: The Case of Arab Gulf States”.

The second day also covered “Approaches to broaden archival accessibility of collections in classics libraries”, “Search behaviors and cognitive processing of researchers in Archival information retrieval”, “Revolutionizing digital preservation education”, and “Creating records management awareness through weekly highlights at the Road Accident Fund in South Africa”. Moreover, the sessions covered: “Challenges and Solutions in the Provision of Services by Regional Archive Conservation Centers in China”, “Easing the Burden: Roles for Archivists in Refugee Resettlement”, and “The model and approach of oral history archives participating in memory construction”.

It is noteworthy that the Sixteenth Arhival Education Research Institute 2024 (AERI) will continue its events over the next two days at the Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi campus.

Photo Captions:

• The National Library and Archives hosts the events of the second day of the Sixteenth Archival Education Research Institute 2024 (AERI).
• Applications of artificial intelligence are at the centre of the conference’s attention.
• One of the events on the second day of the conference.
• One of the workshops on the second day of the conference.

Following His exploration of the NLA’s Flourishing Agenda of National Activities
Sheikh Zayed bin Suroor bin Mohammed Al Nahyan Praises the National Library and Archives’ Role in Fostering Loyalty and Belonging

Sheikh Zayed bin Suroor bin Mohammed Al Nahyan praised the National Library and Archives (NLA) for its flourishing agenda of national activities and its role in fostering a sense of belonging to the homeland, loyalty to its wise leadership, and instilling national identity within the community. These activities also provide visitors with significant insights into the ancient history and heritage of the UAE.
This occurred during his visit to the NLA headquarters, where he was received by His Excellency Abdullah Majed Al Ali, Director General of the NLA. His Excellency introduced to the guest of honor the NLA and its strategic plan extending to 2032, as well as the ongoing developments at this phase of the NLA’s growth.
He affirmed that the NLA is preparing over 30 activities, some of which it organize, and participates in the others. H.E. also highlighted prominent major projects and initiatives, notably the Encyclopedia of UAE History, a significant achievement aimed at documenting the national memory, historical context, and civilizational accomplishments of the UAE. Additionally, H.E. discussed future projects and initiatives in which the NLA will participate, both domestically and internationally.
Sheikh Zayed bin Suroor Al Nahyan toured Sheikh Suroor Hall at the NLA and reviewed the progress of its preparations. This hall chronicles a significant phase in the history of the UAE during its building and founding stages. The delegation also received a detailed explanation of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Hall, which offers an innovative museum experience that embraces the past, documents the present, and anticipates the future by utilizing the latest technologies and display methods to showcase the UAE’s progress, development, and prosperity.
The visit concluded at Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Hall, where the delegation wathced a documentary film highlighting significant milestones in the history of the UAE.

As part of its cultural season program 2024,
The National Library and Archives Organizes a Seminar on National Identity Enhancement with Creative Talents
As part of its cultural season program 2024, the National Library and Archives organized a specialized seminar on enhancing national identity through creative talents. Since national identity acts as a force of cohesion binding members of society, strengthening it with creative talents and Emirati national symbols is our collective responsibility. The seminar highlighted that the great leaders of the UAE stand at the forefront of innovation, accomplishing notable achievements while pushing the nation to rank among the world’s most advanced nations. It’s essential that we look up to these distinguished and iconic leaders as examples, whose professional journeys inspire the next generation to strengthen our national identity.
Mrs. Iman Al Breiki from the National Library and Archives opened the seminar, highlighting that the UAE is proud of its symbols, as well as its creative and innovative people. She pointed out that the enhancement of national identity through creative talents has always been a positive national achievement that fosters students’ sense of pride. She added that it introduces young people to role models and encourages them to be creative for the benefit of the nation.
Speakers in the seminar included Mrs. Asma Ibrahim Al Blooshi, Specialist in Education Improvement in the Development of Education Section at the Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), and Mrs. Linda Ibrahim Wannous, Arts Enrichment Project Manager in the Talent Empowerment Section at ADEK.
Mrs. Asma Ibrahim Al Blooshi began the seminar by emphasizing the pivotal role of the UAE leadership in promoting national identity through its initiatives and projects aimed at instilling cultural and national values.

She talked about the causes of young individuals’ unawareness of their national identity, which involve outside influences, a lack of knowledge, and insufficient targeted activities. Furthermore, she emphasized the importance of educating young people about national identity by focusing on the UAE’s glorious history, ancient culture and traditions, as well as preserving the Arabic language, national values, principles, and symbols. She shed light on the essential elements for educating younger generations about national identity, including “I’m from the UAE”, which is a comic book introducing the children to the UAE and its historical landmarks. Mrs. Al Blooshi also mentioned “My Culture Is My Identity”, a series which consists of traditional stories related to Emirati national identity, and “I’m Emirati”, a story that educates children about the seven Emirates names and what they are known for.
Mrs. Al Blooshi referred to the national identity assessment of private schools, along with the story behind the innovative Majalis initiative and its significant role in promoting students’ identity. Finally, she spoke about Emirati Sanaa.
Then, Mrs. Linda Wannous spoke about “National Art Expressions”, a nationwide initiative aimed at fostering national identity through the arts. It seeks to mirror Emirati customs, heritage, and principles, while nurturing a feeling of connection to the country.
Mrs. Wannous pointed out that the program aims to strengthen students’ perception of national identity, enhance their understanding of the UAE’s history, values and culture, and showcase their artistic talents. The initiative encompasses a variety of subjects including visual arts, performing arts, written arts, age-old crafts and arts, and digital arts.
She also emphasized the initiatives of the program and the benefits they provide to students, noting a variety of Emirati artists involved in the program, such as Najat Makki, Obaid Suroor, Azza Al Qubaisi, and Mohamed Al Astad.
It is worth noting that the National Library and Archives has put together a variety of programs and efforts aimed at nurturing a sense of national identity by encouraging students’ creative abilities in writing, theatre, and other areas.

The National Library and Archives has outlined a detailed plan to establish a specialized library dedicated to Emirati cultural heritage.

The National Library and Archives organized a virtual lecture on the creation of library collections focused on Emirati cultural heritage, in support of its ongoing efforts to expand the National Library’s collection. This initiative is driven by a commitment to enhancing and empowering knowledge communities. The lecture was delivered by His Excellency Fahad Al Maamari, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Library and Information Association. It highlighted the significance of libraries as they house tens of thousands of varied titles across all disciplines and knowledge areas. It stressed that the development of collections in each library is contingent upon the establishment of policies for collection growth, including the creation of specialized collections for Emirati cultural heritage.

The lecture focused on the value of Emirati cultural heritage and the need to consolidate Emirati content within a single institution, serving as a comprehensive reference for researchers and the general public.

Topics covered in the lecture included the importance of the UAE cultural heritage library, the creation of collections of UAE literature, the preservation of popular culture, the folklore bibliography within the Heritage Library, and the role of newspapers, magazines, television, and radio programs in expanding collections.

Regarding the significance of the cultural heritage Library, Al Maamari said, “It serves as a vast repository of knowledge, encompassing thousands of pages that explore the diverse aspects and types of UAE cultural heritage. The existence of a specialized library dedicated to heritage enriches the overall volume of printed materials, making it easier for researchers to find the necessary references and sources. Furthermore, the library acts as the kernel for knowledge and science development among those interested and experts.”

He touched on the various folklore classifications within the library, which offers a comprehensive view of Emirati cultural heritage. He mentioned more than forty classifications in the bibliography of the Emirati cultural heritage library, in addition to folklore encyclopaedias. The lecturer also mentioned the methods and resources available for collecting Emirati cultural heritage across various libraries, media, and other platforms.

Mr. Hamad Al-Hamiri, the Director of the Research and Knowledge Services Department at the National Library and Archives, commented, “The presentation by Mr. Fahd Al-Maamari outlines the milestones we must achieve to establish specialized collections in all areas and within each classification, while also ensuring a scientific linkage between the collections of libraries across the country. This approach will prevent the duplication of resources in the same field or other disciplines, thereby optimizing the use of space in libraries.”

Mr. Hamad Al-Hamiri expressed his deep gratitude for Mr. Al Mamari’s meticulous work in creating the ideal map of the Emirati cultural heritage library. He added that this demonstrates his profound patriotism towards our beloved heritage, which is a significant component of our identity, a cultural legacy we take great pride in, and which we need to safeguard for the benefit of future generations. It also underscores the importance of making it accessible to scholars and experts, as it plays a crucial role in the development and strengthening of knowledge-based communities.

The National Library and Archives sheds light on Dalma Island, emphasizing its rich history and thriving present.

The National Library and Archives delved into the history of Dalma Island, revealing that it is among the oldest human settlements in the United Arab Emirates, likely dating back nearly 7,000 years. This is supported by the archaeological findings on the island.
In her virtual lecture, Ms. Shareena Saeed Al Qubaisi stated that the island is situated in the Arabian Gulf, west of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. She referred to its historical significance for the pearl industry noting that its proximity to pearl banks caused a significant increase in population during the pearl diving season, drawing in divers and those engaged in the pearl business, thereby establishing it as a key trading centre.
The lecture shared photos of different areas on the island and underscored the etymology of its name and its earliest recorded mentions in literature and documents. It then went into detail about Dalma Island’s role as a major commercial hub for pearls, its access to fresh water, and the presence of iron oxide. The lecture also covered historical events on the island and detailed how the island’s inhabitants dealt with epidemics and diseases, such as smallpox outbreaks. Additionally, it highlighted the island’s encounters with locust swarms.
The lecture also highlighted the key archaeological structures on the island, including mosques and residences. It wrapped up by focusing on the attention that Dalma Island has garnered from the esteemed leadership transforming it into a fully integrated city. Thus, health and educational amenities are established, and heritage buildings are restored. Additionally, the Dalma Historical Museum reopened its doors in 2023, and the island hosts a yearly heritage festival.

With participants from the UAE, US, Australia and Brazil,
The National Library and Archives Continues the Necessary Preparations for the Third Edition of the International Oral History Conference
The National Library and Archives continues its preparations for the third UAE International Oral History Conference, “MARWYAT”, which will take place on November 11, 2024, under the theme: “Their Memory Our History: Methods of Sustainability and Knowledge Preservation in Oral History”. This conference complements the previous two editions, highlighting the importance of oral history as an effective method for recording and preserving personal memories and events witnessed or experienced by the narrator that have since faded with time. Oral history serves as a significant source for capturing events that have not been included in written history, making oral narratives one of the most important resources for understanding the history of nations and peoples.
Researchers and experts participating in the third edition of the UAE International Oral History Conference have prepared specialized research papers and presentations on the following themes: “Pearls: A Source of Mystery, Elegance, and Attraction”, “Learning and Mutual Heritage among Generations”, “The Connection between National Identity, Heritage, and Traditional Music”, and “Methods of Oral History Sustainability: Models from Three Countries”.
Regarding this third edition of the conference, His Excellency Abdullah Majed Al Ali, Director General of the National Library and Archives, said: “he UAE International Oral History Conference has proven its scientific and cultural significance, which is why we are keen to hold it annually. The National Library and Archives has relied on the oral narratives of senior citizens and residents to fill in the gaps missing from the written history of the UAE. It is understood that the rich oral history interviews, filled with accurate historical information, have documented the stages of the country’s development. Therefore, the third edition of the conference is an important addition, as it reaffirms the vital national role played by the National Library and Archives in recording past life events, making them available to researchers and students, and preserving them for future generations to understand their history and move confidently and steadily toward the future”.
He added: As we celebrate the annual organization of the UAE International Oral History Conference, we affirm that this celebration is the culmination of what we have achieved over the course of a full year in this field. The current edition will witness the launch of the fourth volume of the series “Their Memory Our History”. We all know that this series is the result of documenting oral narratives and transforming them from intangible form into scholarly writing, making them a reliable reference for researchers in history and cultural heritage. The conference has successfully underlined the importance of oral history and its role in enriching and empowering knowledge societies”.
His Excellency emphasized the National Library and Archives’ commitment to sustaining the elements of national identity and the oral history narratives to deepen future generations’ understanding of the UAE’s history and heritage, the source of our pride and honor.
Dr. Aisha Bilkhair, Head of the Oral History Team and the conference organizing committee, emphasized the importance of this event by saying: “The UAE International Oral History Conference has become one of the annual conferences that academics and researchers are keen to participate in and attend to benefit from the knowledge of experts and specialists, acquire technical skills, learn about best practices and internationally recognized standards, and understand rights, responsibilities, and effective methodologies”.
The importance of the conference, organized by the National Library and Archives, is further enhanced by its role in community service; as it contributes to promoting the culture of documentation and preservation of documents, raising awareness about how to process, sort, analyze, and write information to ensure sustainable benefits in the future.

The National Library and Archives reviews the role of translation in promoting human values and supporting dialogue of civilizations

In the course of its Tarjamat project, the National Library and Archives reviewed the role of translation in promoting human values and supporting dialogue of civilizations since the start of the Arabs’ interest in the translation movement during the Abbasid era. It underscored the contributions of translation to consolidating human values along with promoting the dialogue between East and West. It also exposed the infiltration of Western human values as a result of translation and incorporation into Arabic literature.
Professor Sidiq Gohar, a translation expert at the National Library and Archives, reviewed the history of translation and its state of affairs. He emphasized that the UAE is making tremendous efforts to build bridges of cultural, civilizational and human communication, relying on translation because of its role in enriching the dialogue between East and West.
In the lecture organized by the National Library and Archives titled The Role of Translation in Promoting Human and Civilizational Values: A Contemporary Perspective, Dr. Gohar referred to the NLA’s contributions reflected in its annual translation conference and its specialized publications and research translated to enrich knowledge societies.
The lecture stressed that the translation movement is a tributary of human thought that crosses cultures and borders and a mission of acculturation, dialogue and establishment of links. It pointed out that translation involves civilization and culture, which leads to openness to the other, and it is no longer a mere stylistic or linguistic issue.
The lecture, which was held at Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Hall at the National Library and Archives, reviewed the importance of translation in Arab-Islamic history. It indicated that translation is deeply rooted in the Arab world’s culture and history rather than being a modern phenomenon. Al-Jahiz had previously tackled the basics of translation and the characteristics of a skilled translator, emphasizing the importance of the translator’s familiarity with both the source and target languages.
Professor Gohar highlighted that translation is instrumental to the dialogue of civilizations. He indicated that Western colonizers were received with conflicting emotions of hatred of their military might and admiration for their civilizational achievements upon arriving in the East. A civilizational dialogue sparked and translation of European literature into Arabic impacted modern Arabic literature. Subsequently, hostility to the West dissipated giving way to further involvement in the Western cultural project. Arab modern poets were also able to learn about the European literary heritage, which was reflected in the poems of Badr Shakir al-Sayyab, Abdul Wahhab al-Bayati, Salah Abdel Sabour, Muhammad al-Maghut, Adonis, Mohamad Mustafa Badawi, and others. For example, T. S. Eliot’s poem “The Waste Land” was great source of inspiration.
The lecture concluded by stressing that the UAE is leading the largest knowledge translation movement aimed at promoting cultural work and promoting openness to the cultures of others. Thus, the consolidation of human values and the promotion of dialogue of civilizations are nurtured.

Emphasizing that education in the UAE serves as a role model both regionally and globally
The National Library and Archives Highlights Educational Development in the UAE and Methods for Sustainability
In conjunction with the new academic year, the National Library and Archives (NLA) showcased the most prominent achievements in the UAE’s educational journey. As a pioneer in developing the Arab educational system, the UAE has reached significant milestones, with the first fruits being the quality of education that aligns with national strategic goals. This progress contributes to building a sustainable knowledge-based economy and enhancing the capabilities of future generations.
The lecture, delivered by Dr. Labeeb Ahmed Bsoul, Professor of Humanities and Social Science at Khalifa University, was part of the NLA’s interest in the educational process as a strategic partner in the national upbringing of the new generations. Through its national educational programs, the NLA is committed to fostering values such as instilling a sense of belonging to the homeland, enhancing loyalty to the wise leadership, and strengthening national identity.
The lecture began with an overview of early interest in education then addressed the historical development of education in the UAE, including advancements in educational infrastructure. It also focused on smart education, curriculum development, and educational innovation. It also shed light on staying current with the fourth revolution, international cooperation programs, technical and vocational education, sustainability in education, future preparedness, and the UAE Vision for Education 2030.
The lecture emphasized the country’s commitment to early education by providing innovative curricula and educational programs designed to strengthen children’s skills. Additionally, it highlighted the significant investments made in schools and colleges during the current phase. Schools have been established, government and private schools have been developed, and colleges have been expanded to meet international high standards and equipped with the latest educational technologies.
The lecturer mentioned that the UAE was among the first countries to adopt the concept of smart education. He added that the UAE continually updates its education curricula according to international standards, encourages scientific research at colleges, and launches innovation labs in schools and academic institutions. Furthermore, the UAE has adopted teaching students how to deal with and benefit from the Fourth Industrial Revolution, including artificial intelligence, and robotics into the curriculum.
The lecturer supported his presentation with concrete examples, such as the establishment of high-level universities, the promotion of vocational and technical education, and practical training programmes.
Regarding sustainability initiatives in education, the lecture highlighted that the UAE’s efforts to integrate sustainability into the education system play a significant role in raising students’ awareness in environmental preservation. Additionally, these efforts contribute to developing sustainable solutions and implementing green education initiatives to create eco-friendly schools and colleges. Sustainability is included in the curriculum, and students were being prepared to face the future.
The lecture, hosted at Mohamed bin Zayed Hall at the NLA, emphasized that education is not exclusive to any particular group and is available to everyone, including women. Women have the same right to education as men. Additionally, people of determination have access to comprehensive educational programs.
In concluding the lecture, several Federal Government initiatives in the field of education were highlighted, including the UAE Continuous Education initiative, and reading for all initiatives, and efforts to enhance the quality of education, support scientific research, and stimulate innovation.
The lecture emphasized that the UAE’s educational achievements have made its educational journey a role model both regionally and globally. The UAE has made significant progress in various aspects of the educational process and its sustainability, believing that education is a key pillar of inclusive development and a central element of UAE Vision 2071 that seeks to make the UAE one of the world’s leading countries in education and scientific research.
It is worth noting that the NLA has published the book “Development of Education in the UAE (1904-1971),” which documents the early education in the country from 1904 to 1971.

Participating in the Exhibition with Two Specialized Lectures
The National Library and Archives, Presented to the Visitors of Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition, Rare Historical Content in Hunting and Equestrianism.
The participation of the National Library and Archives in the 2024 edition, the largest in the history of Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition, attracted remarkable attention. Its pavilion fascinated the visitors with its collection of historical photos displaying the esteemed sheikhs’ interest in traditional sports and their keenness to participating in them, particularly in hunting trips and horse races.
All the photos and documentaries displayed at the pavilion were considered historical treasures preserved by the Photo Archive and the Presidential Archive at the National Library and Archives. This rich content provided a historical perspective on hunting and equestrian sports during this major cultural event and highlighted the wise leadership’s commitment to preserving the rich Emirati heritage in the hearts of the generations.
The pavilion also presented to the visitors the most notable publications of the National Library and Archives, which highlighted the interest of the Founder and Builder, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, in hunting and equestrianism, as well as the passion of the people of the United Arab Emirates and the Gulf region for this ancient traditional sport.
On another level, speakers from the National Library and Archives presented specialized lectures at the exhibition’s “Knowledge Platform”; relevant to the interests of the exhibition. Fatma Al Mazrouei, Head of Historical Archive Section, delivered a lecture titled: “Sheikh Zayed and Falcons in the Writings of Foreign Travelers”, which provided a detailed overview of several accounts from the foreign travelers who visited the UAE in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. Among those who described Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s falconry hunting trips were Roger Upton, Wilfred Thesiger (known as Mubarak bin London), Claude Morris, Ronald Codrai, and others.
The lecture relied on photos, documents, and newspapers that documented Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s visits to Pakistan and his interest in sustainable hunting and promoting the concept of sustainability in falconry. She also highlighted some of the writings of foreign travelers in their personal diaries about Sheikh Zayed, his passion for falconry, his hunting skills, and his knowledge of birds.
Additionally, Saeed Al Suwaidi, an expert in genealogy at the National Library and Archives, delivered a lecture titled: “Al-Adiyat in Popular Heritage”, in which he spoke about the names of some of the horses of esteemed Al Nahyan family members. Among them were “Al Muradi”, the horse of Sheikh Khalifa bin Shakhbout, ruler of Abu Dhabi (1833–1845), as well as Rabdan, Bint Al Muradi, Al Kahila, and Al Ubaiah, horses of Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan (Zayed the Great), ruler of Abu Dhabi from 1855 to 1905.
He also shed highlights on the horses in popular poetry and mentioned the names of some of the horses of the esteemed Al Maktoum family members, including “Al Sahal”, the horse of Sheikh Rashid bin Maktoum, ruler of Dubai. He also mentioned the names of some horse owners in the emirates of Abu Dhabi and Dubai and shared stories about the historical connection between Emirati women and horses.
It is noteworthy that the two lectures were coordinated with the Emirates Arabian Horse Society, the Emirates Falconers’ Club, and Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

NLA hosted them at its headquarters, showing them photos that reflect the richness of the past and the prosperity of the present.
The National Library and Archives Educates New Teachers About the Past and Present of the UAE

In celebration of the new academic year, the National Library and Archives (NLA) organized the Teachers’ Forum, welcoming over 450 teachers to its headquarters. They were provided with documented information about the deep-rooted history and heritage of the UAE, aiming to bridge the gap between teachers and students, enhance loyalty to the wise leadership, strengthen national identity, and instill a sense of belonging to the homeland.
The forum began with a documentary film highlighting key milestones in the UAE’s history that span thousands of years, confirming its deep-rooted civilization and archaeological evidences that attest to the strength of its historical legacy.
Following the film, Ms. Hind Al Hammadi delivered a lecture on the history and culture of the UAE. She discussed the region’s history prior to the formation of the Union, touching upon the tribal and daily life in various environments such as the desert, coast, and mountains. She emphasized the values that the Emirati society is keen to preserve, the customs and traditions passed down through generations, and the distinct identity of Emirati society. She also highlighted the cultural symbols of the UAE that are registered on UNESCO’s global list such as:
(Al Ayyala, Al Azi, Al Sadu, Al Talli, Majalis, Coffee, Falconry, Camels).
The lecture also addressed the economic and social life before the establishment of the Union, including the discovery of oil. Key moments in the formation of the UAE were discussed, as well as Sheikh Zayed’s efforts in laying its foundation. Ms. Al Hammadi also shed light on the nation’s aspirations as it moves towards its centennial, and the notable achievements under the wise leadership in various fields in the political, economic, social, and cultural that have been recognized by global competitiveness indicators.
A large number of teachers from various academies and schools participated in the forum, including Al Yasmina British Academy, Yas American Academy, Al Muna British Academy, Al Shohub Private School, Virginia International Private School, Italian International School, and Australian School of Abu Dhabi, as well as many other private schools.
Aiming at bringing together Arab and foreign teachers, the forum focused on the glorious history, civilizations, and rich heritage of the UAE. The traditional heritage plays a key role in portraying the civilization and culture of the UAE’s people, reflecting the UAE’s deep-rooted history. The UAE stands as a living example of the harmony and fusion between its rich heritage and its prosperous present.
At the end, Mr. Farhan Al Marzouqi, Director of the Corporate and Community Outreach Department at the National Library and Archives, honored Ms. Hind Al Hammadi, and the delegation of teachers toured Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Hall.
The National Library and Archives offers a variety of lectures, workshops, and educational training programs that strengthen national identity, loyalty to the wise leadership, and instill a deep sense of belonging to the nation in the hearts of the future generations.

With an extensive collection of photos and documentaries reflecting the UAE’s deep-rooted interest in hunting and equestrianism, The National Library and Archives participated in the largest edition of International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition

The National Library and Archives participated in the 21st edition of the International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition, which was inaugurated under the generous patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Emirates Falconers’ Club. The National Library and Archives showcased a platform filled with historical photos that document the UAE esteemed Sheikhs’ interest in heritage sports such as falconry and horse and camel racing. These sports are pursued in the footsteps of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who laid the foundation for their development, ensuring the preservation of the nation’s cultural heritage. The participation of the National Library and Archives reflected its dedication to presenting the historical significance of hunting and equestrian sports at this important cultural event, while also contributing to the promotion of the UAE’s rich heritage among the future generations.
The platform exhibited dozens of historical photographs that highlight the UAE leaders’ commitment to heritage sports, displaying their participation in hunting trips and horse races both within the UAE and abroad. All the photos and documentaries are part of the historical treasures preserved in the Photo Archives Section and the Presidential Archives Section at the National Library and Archives.
The platform also highlighted the interest of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, in equestrianism and falconry; as he used to accompany his late father Sheikh Zayed on hunting trips in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Sheikh Zayed placed great importance on bringing his sons along on these trips recognizing their significance in sharing human experience and values.
The platform also highlighted the interests of the esteemed Sheikhs, foremost among them His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of the Presidential Court, in hunting and equestrian activities both within and outside the UAE.
The National Library and Archives’ platform displayed its most important publications, which contain accurate and well-documented information on hunting and equestrianism.
The platform also featured a large wall screen displaying several films that document aspects of the hunting trips undertaken by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Additionally, the platform introduced one of the National Library and Archives’ most significant projects: the “Encyclopedia of the UAE History”, which will be the first comprehensive national encyclopedia on the history and civilization of the UAE. This encyclopedia will serve as the officially approved reference for anyone wishing to learn about the UAE history.