With written and photographic documentation of the development of the Corniche in which the wise leadership is interested.

The National Archives participates in the celebrations of Abu Dhabi Corniche Golden Jubilee

The National Archives has participated in the celebrations of Abu Dhabi Corniche Golden Jubilee with a historical photo exhibition that showcased a large number of photographs documenting Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s interest in this important part of Abu Dhabi city which continues to receive considerable attention from our wise leadership. The exhibition exemplifies the role of the National Archives in documenting the development stages of the Corniche. It offered visitors the opportunity to learn about the establishment of the Corniche and it development until the present-day as it represents a significant part of the growth of Abu Dhabi city.

The National Archives exhibition, which is held in celebration of the Golden jubilee of the Corniche, attracted a large turnout as it showed how the Corniche was before the developments it went through at the hands of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The photos illustrated how the touch of the Founding Leader Sheikh Zayed turned the Corniche into a beautiful façade of the city and a recreation space for people throughout the year. The exhibition brought to memory the old fountain and the surrounding park, which were one of the Corniche main landmarks.

In respect of the National Archives participation in this celebration, H.E. Dr. Abdulla Mohammed Alraisi, Director General, said “The National Archives participates in this celebration on this occasion, which is close to our hearts, with a photo exhibition to give its visitors a clear idea about the nation’s history and the Leader’s determination. Abu Dhabi Corniche is part of Abu Dhabi island which got a share of the Founding Leader Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s wisdom and sincere efforts; thus, it was transformed from a pristine coastline with few barasti huts into an iconic beachfront that emulates the World’s most beautiful urban beaches, which won the first prize in several international competitions.”

His Excellency added that the National Archives provides written and photographic documentation of the Corniche development stages. If interested in tracing back the history and development of this area, one can find ample information about the Corniche development stages in the UAE Chronicles and Zayed Chronicles (1966-2004) published by the NA, which continues to record the great attention of our wise leadership to the Corniche in particular, and to Abu Dhabi city and the UAE in general.

In the Company of Allah, the Merciful: a Journey of Hardships and Devotion.

National Archives documents memories of Emirati pilgrims in the past.

National Archives Oral History Section interviews elderly Emirati citizens to document their memories of the Hajj journey in the past.  The pilgrimage to the Holy Land is one of the canons of Islam.  Older Emiratis narrate their memories of pilgrimage and detail hardships they went through in order to meet their Islamic duty of performing Hajj.  In old days, the pilgrimage journey took months.  During the long trip to Mecca and Medina, pilgrims suffered severe physical hardships.  They had to endure severe weather conditions and lack of food and water, as the caravan went through the tough desert terrain.

Senior citizen from Al Ain Khalaf Sa’eed Al Thahiri narrates his memories during an interview:  We went to Hajj mounting camels from Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.  The trip to the holy land lasted two months.  We had to be cautious and take turns to protect the caravan against bandits.

Ali Ahmad Shaheen from al Thafra tells the story of a pilgrim; When we arrived to Mecca we were met by a “mutawaa” (a person who volunteers to lead the pilgrims rituals), who asked where we were coming from and how long it took the caravan to reach the Holy Land.  The pilgrims told him that it took exactly two months.  They were then asked. “In your homeland, do you help the needy and neighbors, and welcome guests?”  The pilgrims said in deed this is innate among us.  The “mutawaa” would then say, you have performed your Hajj (a person who gives the poor and relives the needy is rewarded by Allah at home, as if they performed Hajj).

In another interview, Khalid Abdullah Sleiman Al Hanani from Abu Dhabi recites:  “We would ride camels to the Holy Land.  Those who want to go to Hajj would make a group and rides with owners of camels.  We did not have cars back then.  There were very few airplanes.  Only rich people travelled on airplanes.”

Narrator Klaithem Kshaish Mubarak Al Shamsi from Al Ain talked about hardships: “My father told me it took ninety days to reach the Holy Land.  Some of the devout people who traveled to perform Hajj would not make it and pass away during the journey.”  She describes that her father himself was not able to perform pilgrimage.  However, he was able to talk about it to his children.  He describes the scene when people are getting ready to take the trip to the Holy Land.  They would gather foodstuffs that would remain good to eat in the hot desert, such as dry bread (Rgag), small dried fish (sehna), and water and butter.  If the group does not own a compass, they would use a desert guide.

Fatimah Salim Rashid Al Ketbi from Al Ain talked about the Hajj and she is grateful that she was able to do Hajj and Omra (lower Hajj) nine times and she went to the Holy Land on an airplane every time.

In Her book “Hajj; a Memorable Journey”, Dr. Aisha Balkhair, NA Research Consultant, says that Sheikh Zayed, may he rest in Peace, empowered his people and the Islamic nation, to perform Hajj.  “Sheikh Zayed Memoires”, published by National Archives, documented Zayed’s humanitarian initiate to facilitate the Hajj trip for everybody, as part of his commitment to Islam.  In 1980, Sheikh Zayed sent 600 people to Hajj at his own expense.  Sheikh Zayed supported the Hajj trip to delegations from other Muslim countries.

In her book, Dr. Aisha shed light on Hajj in old days.  She said Emiratis has always paid special attention to Hajj as one of the five canons in Islam.  In old days, people received “barwa”; an official written order to dispense amounts of money written in the document, for performing Hajj.  Persons who receive a “barwa” seek support from Sheiks for foodstuffs such as rice, flour, coffee and sugar.  The state met all needs during the official Hajj season, including health services.

In “Their Memories are Our History” book, published by NA, documents narrative of Rashid Saif Rabi’ Balhamyah Al Thahiri described a race of Camels called “Al Hayah”.  “…we depend on camels a lot and care for them.  Our camels today descend from our ancestors, and they will go to our children.  The whole race descend from “Al Hayah” (Al Hajjah).  It was called that because my grandfather rode this camel to Hajj twice with sheikh Mhaimeed Al Salmeen Al Mansouri.  Our camels now descend from it.

The journey from Al Ain to Mecca mounting camels lasted for four month; two months to Mecca and two months back.

“Their Memories are our history” book confirms what narrator Hajj Se’ed Ahmad Naser Bin Loutah; “…I went to Mecca for Hajj when I was sixteen.  I remember it was during the rule of King Abdulazeez Bin Abdelrahman Al S’oud.  We left Al Hasa going to Riyadh, then to Mecca, and finally to Medinah.  On the return trip, we headed to Shaqra then to Riyadh.  In Riyad we completed the trip in two big cars that was provided to us by the government.  When we reached Al Hasa we went to Al Ajeer mounting donkeis.  In Ajeer we took a steam boat (launch) to Bahrain.  In Bahrain, we took another launch to our homeland.  The trip lasted for three months.  Hajj Se’ed mentioned that he went to Hajj with his father.  There were many clerks around King Abdulazziz’s Palace.  They helped Beduins to write their petitions to the King.  Mr. Lutah says “…we went to one of the clerks to get our petition written down.  He asked what your needs are.  My father told him he would dictate his needs and he just needed the clerk to write down.  The clerk was astonished to hear that from a Bedouin.  My father dictated the text and the clerk was doing the writing.  The clerk was looking at my father the whole time.  At the end, the clerk asked my father; what university did you graduate from?  My father laughed.  This proves that we had a good education system.

In the same book, narrator Obaid Rashid Obaid Ahmad Bin Sandal Al Ali talks about his trip from Sharjah to Kuwait back in the fifties.  He accompanied his mother from Kuwait to hajj riding a car.  He said the trip lasted for a month.

Obaid said in order to travel to Kuwait in 1955; he obtained a passport from Sheikh Saqer Bin Sultan Bin Saqer Al Qasimi, ruler of Sharjah (1924-1951).  Those days passports used to be an important document that contained personal data such as date of birth, and confirmed that the bearer is from Sharjah.    A statement on the passport would ask all governments to allow the bearer to pass through their borders and provide all necessary.

Memories of senior citizens give details about past life.  Emiratis consolidated efforts to the devout Muslims and enabled many people to perform Hajj.  Camels were essential as transportation to Hajj.  Palm trees provided essential foodstuffs.

In Issue 21 recently issued by the National Archives

The 21st issue of Liwa magazine issued by the National Archives celebrates coexistence and tolerance in the UAE society, describing the UAE as a wonderful model of security and peaceful social coexistence among the societies of the contemporary world. The study written by Dr. Fatima Al-Sayegh confirms that this pioneering model derives its values and components from the UAE’s heritage. Historical, cultural and social dating back thousands of years.

The study, published by Liwa magazine, coinciding with the Year of Tolerance, indicates that the UAE’s archaeological heritage reflects the manifestations of this diversity, as various sects and races have lived in the UAE region from ancient times to the present day.

The study highlights the roots of tolerance and peaceful coexistence in the UAE since ancient times. Contemporary measures taken by the UAE to make the country safe for all. And the policy and visions of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan – may God rest his soul in peace – are based on tolerance and call for peaceful coexistence between races, a policy that has become well-established for the state at home and abroad, and has made it a shady oasis under which millions of people live. and the current conditions of the UAE based on ethnic diversity and cultural pluralism. The article concludes with an analytical view of the importance of the policy of coexistence and tolerance in making our contemporary world free of all forms of violence and terrorism.

(Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum and the establishment of Dubai Air Ports) are among the most important titles that illuminated this issue of (Liwa). This article was written by Dr. Alia Mohammed Najeeb Saqr, who indicated that the period of the end of the fifties of the twentieth century was the turning point for the Emirate of Dubai. Because Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum began to establish the emirate’s infrastructure, and it seemed to be transforming into an emirate with institutions that match the size of the development in the economic and demographic fields, and this is what necessitated the establishment of a civil airport for it.

This study indicates the role of Dubai Airport in attracting airlines from all over the world at this early age in the emirate’s developing life, and highlights one of the most important projects that have made progress in its field of completion, and documents Sheikh Rashid’s endeavors to establish Dubai Airport and the British opposition, and Sheikh Rashid’s executive efforts before The opening of the airport, then the opening of the asphalt runway in 1965, and the promotional procedures of Sheikh Rashid. It is an approach to serve the commercial interests of Dubai, but it pursues it to consolidate the foundations of trade and provide the necessary services to merchants and businessmen.

The new issue of (Liwa), the peer-reviewed scientific journal, issued in both Arabic and English, sheds light on topics related to the history, heritage and antiquities of the United Arab Emirates and the Arabian Gulf region. The first studies of this issue were written by Khaled Hussein Saleh, entitled: (History in Mleiha and Southern Arabia… Communications and Influences). In it, the history of the Mleiha site, which is located in the center of the Emirate of Sharjah, is revealed. In it, many evidences were discovered of communication between it and Arab and foreign commercial centers during its settlement period. Between the late third century BC and the middle of the third century AD. Due to its strategic location, Mleiha participated in the cultural situation at the time, and it had a major role in commercial exchanges. There are numerous studies on the most important characteristics of Mleiha, and evidence of its connection to the south of the Arabian Peninsula in ancient times.

In its new issue, Liwa magazine also documents aspects of the life of Sheikh Zayed bin Saif bin Muhammad Al-Falahi, and the writer Saeed Al-Suwaidi draws information from British documents (1820-1825), and from the oral history of the Al Bu Falah clan and their lineages in general and Al Nahyan in particular. Saif Al-Falahi is the one who signed a peace treaty in 1820 on behalf of the Sheikh of Dubai, Mohammed bin Hazaa bin Zaal. Sheikh Tahnoun bin Shakhbout to power, and the study monitors the life of Sheikh Zayed bin Saif Al-Falahi until its end, and deals with the various aspects of this personality, whose reign witnessed many disturbances and challenges.

The part presented by Liwa magazine in English included two studies. The first is entitled: (Three Portuguese documents on the Arabian Gulf, and an appendix on trade and taxes), and the second is entitled: (Sheikh Zayed bin Saif bin Muhammad Al-Falahi through British documents 1820-1825).

The National Archives enriches its oral history with new interviews with narrators in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain

The National Archives continues to collect oral narrations through interviews, which amounted to 913 interviews conducted by specialists in oral history, audio and video, with elderly narrators. In this regard, the National Archives conducted, in the first quarter of this year, a large number of interviews in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. Witnesses of the era, men and women, talked about the exploits of the fathers and grandfathers that enrich the memory of the nation, add to the ancient Emirati values, and remain immortal for generations to learn from, what strengthens their belonging to the homeland and consolidates their national identity.

The interviews conducted by the National Archives recently with thirteen individual narrators varied; Men and women, to talk either about the life they lived or lived through, and what it was full of in the field of education, societal and economic events and other customs, traditions and values, or they spoke in particular about grazing, and the changes that occurred in the natural pastures in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, and ways to preserve them To ensure the sustainability of biodiversity resources.

Among the most prominent oral history interviewees: the narrator, Mrs. Fatima Muhammad Salem Al Mazrouei, who is a model for the interviews in which narrators talk about their lives; As there are many paths of her speech to cover the places of residence and the heat, the work of women in the food and wicker industry, the cooperation between people in the past, the generosity in receiving guests, the old travel to Al-Ain, and she remembers the first car, and her father’s work in diving and then in Saudi Arabia, and the first currency, and she describes the market The old center in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and its objects, old games, the habits of the people of society during the month of Ramadan, the methods of teaching prayer, fasting and memorizing the Qur’an, the pilgrimage trip to Makkah Al-Mukarramah and Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, then the joy of Eid, the women’s dress and wearing the shayla and abaya for the first time, and she also remembers the customs And the traditions of marriage, and the multiplicity of types of dates in the eye in the past, and the methods of preserving dates, and obtaining water, and folk remedies that people used to treat in the past, and then the first hospital built in Al Ain, as you remember the sheikhs who lived with them, and in the forefront of them is the late – God willing – Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and his efforts for the sake of the establishment of the union, and the growth, development and renaissance that resulted from his efforts, and his wisdom and advice to the people of his society.

The National Archives conducted a large number of documented audio and video interviews with the thirteen narrators in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, namely Salem Eid Obaid Al Muhairi, Khalfan Jumaa Saif Al Kaabi, Rashid Ali Saif Al Nayli Al Shamsi, Muhammad Ali Saif Al Nayli Al Shamsi, Rabi` Saadoun bin Zuwaid Al Nuaimi, and Saleh Saeed Ahmed. Al-Khalis Al-Amiri, Obaid Saif Obaid Al-Kaabi, Zulaikha Muhammad Hassan Al-Hammadi, Fatima Al-Abd Khuzam Al-Amri, Fatima Salem Rashid Al-Ketbi, Fatima Muhammad Salem Al-Mazrouei, Kleitham Kishish Mubarak Al-Shamsi, and Maryam Juma Al-Kaabi.

These newly conducted interviews with the narrators joined the collection of interviews kept by the National Archives, which amounted to 913 interviews, to draw from their oral memory, which is a historical reference with their voices and expressions, and to add to the archive documentation of secondary events that were not monitored in the written documents, and in order to It enriches the information base, and increases the stock of oral history interviews that contribute to the production of researchers, academics, and those interested in the history and heritage of the state, and then preserved for future generations to see the lives of parents and grandparents, lifestyles and stages of development.

Liwa’s Dates Festival

National Archives documents Al Thafra history; Oral History Interviews

The National Archives conducted several interviews with narrators in Al Thafra area, during Liwa’s Dates Festival.  The festival is one of the most important cultural events that attract culture fans from all over the country.  Interviews are part of NA’s efforts to document oral history in Al Thafra, due to interest in this area’s past life.

Liwa’s dates’ festival provided NA with the perfect opportunity to reach out to a huge number of older seasoned oral history narrators who lived through pre-Union era and the establishment of the country.  Oral narration enriches written history.  The National Archives marks down narrations based on scientific criteria, in order to maintain subjectivity of information.  NA is using most modern technology in gathering information, to supplement the memory of the nation.

During the dates’ festival NA’s specialized interviewers met with elderly citizens to gather information about the deep-rooted history of Al Thafra area.  Interviewers asked about nature of life, social relationships and living resources in the past.  The choice of Al Thafra (in the Western Region of Abu Dhabi) came about due to the existence of many important historical site and ruins in the area.  Al Thafra was the place of origin of Al Nehayan, rulers of the area. The many ancient citadels and towers in the area bear witness to Al Nehyan’s great efforts in protecting the country.

The National Archives interviewed seven women and nine men from Liwa and its surroundings; Aidha Muhammed Rashid Al Mazrou’I, Al Khbab Murshid Maktoum Al Mansouri, Bekheet Salem Thebian Al Mansouri, Saleh Muhammed Saleh Al Mazrou’I, Khamis Hamdan Mufleh Al Mazrou’I, Suhail Ali Rabi’ Al Mazrou’I, Zayed Ghanem Outaiba Al Mazrou’I, and Faraj Rashid Oubaid Al Mansouri.

NA gathered recordings of elderly narrators who lived before of the establishment of the Union.  They provided significant details about the tough life when economy depended on farming in the western region oases.  National Archives specialists recorded and transcribed interviews, which mainly narrated past events and discussed patterns of living in the Western Region, including dates and culture in Al Thafra.

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The National Archives collaborates with the Family Development Foundation in Children &amp; Youth of the House Club 2019
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The National Archives participated in the program of Children and Youth of the House Club 2019, organized by the Family Development Foundation to support children and youth creative and innovative skills. The NA held several interactive workshops targeting children in the age group from 6-12 years. These workshops aim to strengthen their loyalty and sense of belonging and to enhance their national identity.
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The National Archives’ collaboration with the Family Development Foundation is prompted by its social responsibility towards community members, and the role it plays in the national upbringing of generations, encouraging them to creativity and innovation, supplying them with positive energy to increase their interest in their studies and their love for their homeland.
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The National Archives specialists delivered interactive workshops at Abu Dhabi Center of the Family Development Foundation. These workshops were based on the three educational booklets issued by the National Archives namely “Zayed from Challenges to Union”, “Khalifa: Journey into the Future” and “Qasr Al Hosn: The History of the Rulers of Abu Dhabi 1793-1966”, as well as in the educational booklet: “Watani Al Emarat”. These interactive workshops coincided with Almaseera educational game.
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The National Archives has been participating in this program since mid-July up to 7 August 2019. Three workshops will be held weekly and 30 students attend each workshop.
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It is noteworthy that “Almaseera Educational Game” is a new game specially designed to be an integrated knowledge unit that includes information extracted from the National Archives’ publications, which dealt with Sheikh Zayed’s character, in an interactive educational template. The game seeks to instill these national and moral values and knowledge in the hearts and minds of the participants.
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The educational booklet: “Watani Al Emarat” aims to introduce children to the history of the UAE through interactive games that enrich their skills, knowledge of the history of their homeland and enhance their loyalty and belonging to it. The booklet includes various topics that deal with genealogy, forms of documenting the past, some monuments like castles and forts, the biographies of the founding fathers, the story of the Union’s flag and other national subjects.
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The three national educational booklets: “Zayed from Challenges to Union”, “Khalifa: Journey into the Future” and “Qasr Al Hosn: The History of the Rulers of Abu Dhabi 1793-1966” aim to educate young people about the national values and principles of the founding leader Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and enhance belonging and loyalty to the wise leadership.

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A National Archives’ delegation visited the new cultural landmark in the UAE, “Qasr Al Watan” also known as “Palace of the Nation”,

A delegation from the National Archives has visited Qasr Al Watan, the new cultural landmark added to many other historic and cultural landmarks in the UAE.

The delegation highly commended the wise leadership’s efforts leading to Qasr Al Watan’s being a rare architectural masterpiece combining the magnificent present with the dazzling past. It offers its visitors to behold bright pages and aspects of the authentic heritage and witness the broad vision of civilizations’ dialogue, particularly in the Year of Tolerance, which links the world civilizations and also the present with the bright future. The halls of Qasr Al Watan exhibit a group of masterpieces and rare historic manuscripts shedding light on Emirati as well as Arab contributions to various human civilization fields including science, arts, literature and culture.

The delegation, through its tour of the different palace halls, listened to a detailed explanation of its architectural style which reflects the beauty of the art of Arab architecture with its patterns, decorations, geometric shapes or designs and colors inspired by the Emirates region’s nature. The mosaic walls of the palace are characterized by Islamic and Arabic geometric and architectural patterns and designs, notably the octagon star and the Muqarnas “a form of architectural ornamented vaults”.

The delegation’s tour also included the Great Hall which is the architectural core of the palace and one of its main sections, the ceiling of which is covered with one of the largest domes in the world, ornamented with golden decorations. Then, the delegation moved to the Barza also known as “Majlis” where the Ruler meets his people and afterwards to the Cooperation Spirit Hall designed to host important meetings of local bodies, regional and international organizations of which the UAE is a member. Moreover, it explored presidential gifts reflecting the friendly relations between the UAE and other countries of the world and the presidential dining hall reflecting Emirati hospitality with its remarkable capacity of 300 guests.

At the end of the tour, the delegation reached the House of Knowledge depicting the history of a number of sciences and libraries; and Qasr Al Watan Library which keeps more than 40,000 books and the Codices of Mexico Exhibition displaying priceless ancient pre-Hispanic codices and artefacts. At the end of the visit, the delegation explored the book of the Chinese President on government and management. The book was recently received at the Qasr Al Watan Library as a gift presented by the President of the People’s Republic of China to H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

In fact, this is considered one of the most important visits of the National Archives’ delegation this year as it strengthens corporate relations and promotes strategic partnerships.

Aiming at conducting academic research on sustainable development in the UAE

The National Archives receives an academic visit from students of the University of Pennsylvania in the USA

New York University (NYU), Abu Dhabi has organized an academic visit to the National Archives for a visiting delegation of Management and International Relations MA students from the University of Pennsylvania in the United States to educate them about the development, advancement modernity and prosperity which the UAE has witnessed in a record time at the hands of the Founding Father, the Late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The visit comes in affirmation of the corporate partnership and in realization of the National Archives’ vision and mission.

During their tour of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan’s Hall, the students were acquainted with historic manuscripts, maps and photographs through which they explored the past of the Emirates region through the various successive historical eras and learned also about the present UAE which has become a role model representing civilization, progress, happiness and tolerance.

Then the guest delegation attended a lecture delivered by Dr. Aisha Bilkhair, Research Advisor at the National Archives, about the UAE history, culture and civilization, during which she highlighted Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s role in instilling tolerance among the Emirati society members, inducing tribes to join together under the umbrella of modern society and share its responsibilities and welfare, enhancing the principles of solidarity, integrity and respect for environment in society, supporting family establishment as the basic nucleus of any society and promoting women’s empowerment and their important role in the Emirati society to enable women to utilize their capabilities and invest all available powers in order to realize constructive change and development. Sheikh Zayed was, in fact, supported by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, “Mother of the Nation” who devoted her efforts to encourage Emirati women and to promote social life in general.

In her lecture, Dr. Aisha Bilkhair reviewed the importance of the wise leadership’s initiatives through which it expressed its keen interest in innovation, reading, benevolence, giving and humanity by declaring special years as designated to represent these respective mottos. Furthermore, supportive plans, programs and strategies were devised and developed to ensure the success of such initiatives.

The research advisor also tackled in her lecture the importance of “Zayed’s sons” and successors’ role in fostering national identity and promoting benevolence and giving, and in disseminating the values of committing to tolerance, tribal customs and traditions, respect and compassion for others. In addition to enhancing the spirit of loyalty and belonging to the homeland and its wise leadership and supporting citizens to dedicate their best potentials to serve their nation and to keep abreast of and stay up-to-date with future developments which hold many accomplishments and challenges for the UAE. As in 2020, the UAE will be the world’s meeting point getting ready for Expo 2020. Accordingly, the UAE citizens must exhibit to the world a true example of tolerance, benevolence, giving and happiness.

The NYU delegation commended the National Archives’ historic acquisitions, its technological advancement and expressed genuine appreciation to NA Officials for the warm hospitality and great care which they received during their visit.

The Speaker of the Yemeni House of Representatives visits the National Archives and appreciates its development and role in fostering the Emirati-Yemeni relations

H.E. Sultan Al Burkani, Speaker of the Yemeni House of Representatives, visited the National Archives in Abu Dhabi. H.E. Dr. Abdulla Mohammed Alraisi, NA Director-General received him and gave him a brief introduction about the National Archives of the UAE, which has been preserving the Nation’s memory for more than half a century.

H.E. Director-General pointed out the NA role in fostering the fraternal ties between the UAE and the Republic of Yemen since the time of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan who had established a unique and close relationship with the people of Yemen.  In fact, Sheikh Zayed had left an indelible imprint all over Yemen, notably the building of Marib Dam, which was a source of pride for Yemeni people in the past.

Dr. Abdulla Al Raisi briefed H.E. Sultan Al Burkani and the accompanying delegation about the NA agenda pointing out that the ICA Congress, the largest-ever gathering of archivists, will be held next year (2020) in Abu Dhabi. He informed them about the portal of the Arabian Gulf Digital Archive (AGDA), which has been launched to provide its visitors with hundreds of thousands of digital copies of historical documents in Arabic and English in addition to photographs and multiple media of historical and cultural value pertaining to the UAE and the GCC countries history over two centuries.

H.E. the Speaker of the Yemeni House of Representatives praised the noticeable technological development and the modern techniques used by the NA for collecting, preserving and providing access to the memory of the nation. He highly appreciated the NA role in preserving historical documents, photocopied materials, references and primary sources, which constitute a cultural and historical legacy for the region and humanity. Furthermore, he highlighted the role of the NA in documenting the good historical relations between the UAE and the Republic of Yemen stressing the importance of recording the present moment during which Yemen enjoys the UAE immense support that will go down in history.

The National Archives Director-General took H.E. Sultan Al Burkani and the accompanying delegation on a tour of the NA departments and main facilities. His Excellency listened to a description about the acquisitions displayed in Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Hall, which provides its visitors with important aspects of the UAE history, the Union foundation and the close relations with several friendly states.

His Excellency viewed some of the Presidential Archives acquisitions including photographs, multiple media. He also saw methods of preserving the UAE history including documenting the biography of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the efforts of H.H. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and NA interest in providing the Presidential Archives Section with all specialized and modern equipment and advanced software to enable it to make some of its acquisitions accessible via smart applications.

H.E. Sultan Al Burkani visited the Emirates Library, which is one of the most prominent specialized libraries in UAE and the Gulf region history and culture. In fact, it is an important source of paper and electronic references and general books.

At Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Hall, the guest delegation watched a 3D high-quality documentary film about the UAE history, present and future prospects.

The National Archives and Abu Dhabi Customs Organize an Awareness Workshop on the Basics of Document and Archive Management

The National Archives has organized, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi General Administration of Customs, an awareness workshop entitled: “Basics of Document and Archive Management in Accordance with Federal Law No. 7 of 2008 concerning the National Archives and its Bylaw”. The workshop, which was held at Abu Dhabi General Administration of Customs’ headquarters, was part of the NA follow-up of the government entities’ archives organization and development projects. It aims to enable these archives to adopt the international standards in documentation and archiving, promote archivists’ performance and allow them to cope with the standard, technical and legal developments in their field of work.

The awareness workshop, which lasted for a day, tackled a number of topics, namely the definition of the Public Document stipulated in Federal Law No. 7 of 2008 concerning the National Archives. The public document is any document related to government entities’ works in the legislative, judicial or administrative field or otherwise. A record, a government entity receives and incorporates in its documents, for its relevance to its work or if it is necessary to manage its work, is considered a public document.

The workshop also discussed the document life cycle, the establishment of an integral system for paper and electronic document management and the working procedures of current and intermediate documents management system. The workshop also discussed the requirements for keeping archives in a safe environment to protect them from hazards in their current or intermediate stages in accordance with the international standards. The workshop showed the types of risks and disasters that threaten documents and the preventative procedures to be followed in this regard.

The National Archives has praised the great attention Abu Dhabi General Administration of Customs has taken to organize its archives, improve the skills of its archives staff members and enhance their experience in light of legislations approved in the UAE, the international standards and best practices followed in archives and in paper and electronic document management.

The National Archives enhances the values of belonging to the homeland and loyalty to its leadership among “ADNOC” Technical Academy Students

Pursuant to the collaboration between the National Archives and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company “ADNOC”, the National Archives has delivered a number of national lectures for secondary students at the “ADNOC” Technical Academy. The lectures tackled national topics, namely: “Zayed, the Founder of the Union and the Sustainable Homeland” and “Belonging, Loyalty and National Identity as Key Supreme National Values”. The lectures aimed at promoting national identity and fostering loyalty and belonging to the homeland and its wise leadership.

The National Archives collaborates with ADNOC Technical Academy as part of its national role and keen interest to cooperate with the most vital Government sectors; through which it targets the UAE youth. This year, Its plan included organizing national lectures, activities and events for three thousands of the UAE youth including citizens and future leaders to enhance their national spirit, their loyalty to the leadership and belonging to the homeland, also to establish and reinforce their national identity.

These national lectures are conducted in the framework of a memorandum of understanding signed by both the National Archives and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company “ADNOC” with the aim of establishing effective partnership between the two parties to ensure sharing and exchanging experiences, enriching knowledge, community development, and contributing to the promotion of the historical status of the UAE.

The NA has delivered, to “ADNOC” Academy students, a number of national lectures, mainly “Belonging, Loyalty and national Identity as Key Supreme National Values” delivered by Mohammed Ismail Abdulla, Senior Educational Programs Officer at the NA Educational Programs section. He stressed the importance of the Nation’s triangle including the three main values of national identity, loyalty and belonging as essential to all communities to achieve their unity, harmony, solidarity along with their human, cultural and civilizational progress. Since the community values and its cultural legacy and heritage are the cornerstone to the homeland that direly needs special national education and unique heritage and historical characteristics to distinguish it, and to which citizens and future generations can relate with pride and glory.

One of other main significant lectures is “Zayed, the Founder of the Union and the Sustainable Homeland” in which the lecturer tackled the UAE early history with a focus on the UAE foundation stage and a special highlight on Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s character, personal traits, and virtues including patience, insight, and wisdom. He was known among his people as a great mediator and peacemaker who contributed in the settlement of many disputes. The Speaker also stressed the wise man of Arabs keen interest in promoting close relations and strong ties with other Trucial States, as an early indication of establishing the Union  founded by Sheikh Zayed in cooperation with Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum. The lecturer then listed the various stages the Union has undergone until its establishment which eventually lead to the foundation of the UAE, officially declared on December 2, 1971.

Furthermore, the lecture discussed the UAE constitution and armed forces unification under its flag and wise leadership on May 6, 1976. He also reviewed the objectives of the establishment of the UAE and the factors leading to the establishment of the union of the seven emirates and to the UAE international recognition.

The lecturer then shed light on Sheikh Zayed’s Gulf region contributions, his great stances, performance and the high status he enjoyed in the Arab World in addition to his contributions and achievements internationally. Examples of Sheikh Zayed’s achievements were presented as an evidence of his prominent role in all areas and fields whether at local, Arab or international levels.

Through its lectures conducted at ADNOC Academy, the National Archives emphasizes the significant importance of instilling the values of national identity, loyalty and belonging to the homeland and to its wise leadership in students.

The National Archives enhances the values of belonging to the homeland and loyalty to its leadership among “ADNOC” Technical Academy Students

Pursuant to the collaboration between the National Archives and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company “ADNOC”, the National Archives has delivered a number of national lectures for secondary students at the “ADNOC” Technical Academy. The lectures tackled national topics, namely: “Zayed, the Founder of the Union and the Sustainable Homeland” and “Belonging, Loyalty and National Identity as Key Supreme National Values”. The lectures aimed at promoting national identity and fostering loyalty and belonging to the homeland and its wise leadership.

The National Archives collaborates with ADNOC Technical Academy as part of its national role and keen interest to cooperate with the most vital Government sectors; through which it targets the UAE youth. This year, Its plan included organizing national lectures, activities and events for three thousands of the UAE youth including citizens and future leaders to enhance their national spirit, their loyalty to the leadership and belonging to the homeland, also to establish and reinforce their national identity.

These national lectures are conducted in the framework of a memorandum of understanding signed by both the National Archives and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company “ADNOC” with the aim of establishing effective partnership between the two parties to ensure sharing and exchanging experiences, enriching knowledge, community development, and contributing to the promotion of the historical status of the UAE.

The NA has delivered, to “ADNOC” Academy students, a number of national lectures, mainly “Belonging, Loyalty and national Identity as Key Supreme National Values” delivered by Mohammed Ismail Abdulla, Senior Educational Programs Officer at the NA Educational Programs section. He stressed the importance of the Nation’s triangle including the three main values of national identity, loyalty and belonging as essential to all communities to achieve their unity, harmony, solidarity along with their human, cultural and civilizational progress. Since the community values and its cultural legacy and heritage are the cornerstone to the homeland that direly needs special national education and unique heritage and historical characteristics to distinguish it, and to which citizens and future generations can relate with pride and glory.

One of other main significant lectures is “Zayed, the Founder of the Union and the Sustainable Homeland” in which the lecturer tackled the UAE early history with a focus on the UAE foundation stage and a special highlight on Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s character, personal traits, and virtues including patience, insight, and wisdom. He was known among his people as a great mediator and peacemaker who contributed in the settlement of many disputes. The Speaker also stressed the wise man of Arabs keen interest in promoting close relations and strong ties with other Trucial States, as an early indication of establishing the Union  founded by Sheikh Zayed in cooperation with Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum. The lecturer then listed the various stages the Union has undergone until its establishment which eventually lead to the foundation of the UAE, officially declared on December 2, 1971.

Furthermore, the lecture discussed the UAE constitution and armed forces unification under its flag and wise leadership on May 6, 1976. He also reviewed the objectives of the establishment of the UAE and the factors leading to the establishment of the union of the seven emirates and to the UAE international recognition.

The lecturer then shed light on Sheikh Zayed’s Gulf region contributions, his great stances, performance and the high status he enjoyed in the Arab World in addition to his contributions and achievements internationally. Examples of Sheikh Zayed’s achievements were presented as an evidence of his prominent role in all areas and fields whether at local, Arab or international levels.

Through its lectures conducted at ADNOC Academy, the National Archives emphasizes the significant importance of instilling the values of national identity, loyalty and belonging to the homeland and to its wise leadership in students.