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.

The National Library and Archives reviews the development of the library sector in the UAE

The National Library and Archives (NLA) reviews the UAE libraries’ state of affairs based on the accurate data and statistics derived from the second survey study for the year 2023. The NLA assigned a group of experts and specialists in library science to conduct the trailblazing study. Their final report included an analysis and description of the current situation of UAE libraries. This study provides valuable information to policy makers, professionals and researchers in this field. Thus, it contributes to the development of strategic plans to improve library services in terms of enriching the knowledge society.

The study showed that the level of satisfaction with library services in the country witnessed a positive increase in 2023 compared to 2022, bespeaking the improvement of the quality of services and others.

The study confirms that libraries across the country adapt to and interact actively with the national goals of sustainability, being sustainable institutions by nature that embrace knowledge, make it available to all, and preserve it for future generations. Therefore, libraries focus on environmental issues, apply eco-friendly procedures, and act as platforms for community dialogue on sustainability, and this weighs in community involvement in sustainability initiatives.

It is worth noting that the study focused on library buildings, facilities, collections and holdings, services, activities, programs, technical work tools, communication systems, library management automated systems, digital transformation techniques, and available equipment and devices. It recorded the level of satisfaction with library services in the UAE.

The study pointed out the state of affairs of public, academic and school libraries, as well as specialized libraries, and the development they have undergone. It also shed light on libraries and sustainability in the United Arab Emirates, and in light of the above, recommendations were made.

Commenting on this study and its importance, Mr. Hamad Al Hemiri, Director of Research and Knowledge Services Department, said, “Libraries, in general, have a great role as a source of self-development and continuing education. Realizing that they contribute to strengthening knowledge societies, our wise leadership attached great importance to the knowledge sector, so libraries in the United Arab Emirates have become beacons of science and knowledge and exemplary in promoting reading.” He added that he believes that further development, concerted efforts and integration culminating in distinctive cultural and knowledge future, are expected following this NLA commissioned study, which was carried out by a group of experts relying on a comprehensive methodology and covering all aspects of the work of libraries in the country.

Experiences and historical photos evoke pride and honor by highlighting their pioneering role in various aspects of life
The National Library and Archives Presents Showcases Experiences and Photos About the Past and Present of Emirati Women

In conjunction with Emirati Women’s Day, the National Library and Archives (NLA) organized two lectures. The first lecture, delivered by Mariam Sultan Al Mazrouei, Oral History Researcher at the NLA, focused on Emirati women in oral narratives. The second lecture, presented by the Researcher Warda Al Menhali, Director of Corporate Communications at TRENDS Research and Advisory Center, highlighted her exceptional experience at TRENDS Center and the support and opportunities she received in the field of scientific research. Additionally, the NLA participated in the celebrations held at Al Ain Sports and Cultural Club with a historical photo gallery showcasing the role of Emirati women.
In her virtual lecture, Al Mazrouei began with quotes by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, about Emirati women. She underscored the continued efforts made by the UAE leadership for the advancement and empowerment of Emirati women in all fields.
The lecture pointed out that the achievements of Emirati women in current times are a true honor. It emphasized the importance of having exemplary figures, such as the late Sheikha Salama bint Butti (Mother of Sheikhs), whose legacy of generosity and leadership serves as a model. It also noted the national role played by H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak (Mother of the UAE), who remains an inspiring figure across generations, a great example of noble humanitarian generosity, and a pioneer in empowering women and advancing their capacity-building.
The lecture also highlighted the NLA’s commitment to document all women-related accounts given by elderly narrators. It further elaborated the significant roles women play in the social, economic, political, and cultural aspects of life. This is bespoken in Al Mukaid and diving and the interlink of these traditional activities.
Highlighting their great role in embracing their families, the lecture showed several women struggle stories, namely Poet Ousha bint Khalifa Al Suwaidi, traditional healer Hamama bint Obaid Al Teneji from Al Dhaid, and Hamda bint Humaid Al Hameli from Abu Dhabi, who led groups of women supply provisions to ships carrying pearl divers. The lecture also shed light on Shamsa bint Sultan Al Murr among others who left their mark on history. Additionally, it underscored a significant aspect of the Emirati women’s life as novelists skilled in telling folk tales.
At the NLA headquarters, researcher Warda Al Menhali emphasized the UAE’s significant support for Emirati women, which has enabled them to achieve outstanding success in various fields. She also pointed out that TRENDS Center serves as an exemplary model in this regard, providing a stimulating and encouraging work environment for UAE researchers and equiping them with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in their research careers.
Al Menhali elaborated on her personal experience at TRENDS Center, showcasing several research projects she participated in and the skills she acquired during her time at this leading research center. She stressed that the center provides researchers with extensive access to the latest research tools and technologies, as well as a broad network of connections with experts and researchers at both local and international levels. Furthermore, Al Menhali affirmed the critical role Emirati women play in shaping the UAE’s future, highlighting their merit, competitiveness and excellence in all areas that enable them to effectively work alongside men to build knowledge and innovation community.
The NLA also participated in the Emirati Women’s Day celebrations at Al Ain Sports and Cultural Club with a historical photo gallery. It showcased the roles of Emirati women in different fields including education and health, as well as their contributions to the military establishment. The photo gallery had a great turnout.

Theoretical and Practical Training in the Center for Preservation & Restoration
The National Library and Archives Enriches its Cultural Season with Events on the Importance of Preserving Private Archives, and Methods for Preserving Restoring National Documents
As part of its 2024 cultural season program, the National Library and Archives (NLA) organized a series of workshops and specialized training sessions on collecting and preserving private archives, as well as on the art of restoring archival materials. More than 140 participants from different entities took part in these events, aimed at raising public awareness about the importance of preserving documents in suitable conditions so they remain part of the memory of the nation. If a document shows signs of damage, it should not be discarded, but preserved, and assistance should be sought from the Center for Preservation and Restoration of the National Library and Archives. Through these events, the National Library and Archives aims to highlight its role in preserving and restoring documents that represent the memory of the nation, and to encourage future generations to acquire and develop skills in this field.
Among these events was a training workshop for school students, during which Ms. Sheikha Al Qahtani, Head of the Preservation and Restoration Section, delivered an educational lecture to the participants on the maintenance, restoration, and digitization of documents and manuscripts. She introduced them to the role that the National Library and Archives plays in preserving the memory of the nation. She then addressed the main causes of deterioration that archival materials may face if not properly preserved, the methods of document maintenance and restoration, and the role of the National Library and Archives in this field.
She also highlighted the dedicated storage facilities, specialized technical staff, and high-quality equipment that the National Library and Archives possesses for this purpose.
The practical part of the training workshop reinforced the theoretical information presented in the lecture, demonstrated restoration techniques to the students. Restoration experts supervised this part of the workshop, who introducing students to the principles of document and archive restoration along with the advanced technical equipment available for these purpose.
As part of the cultural season seminars, the NLA’s Center for Restoration and Preservation hosted a large number of employees from government entities. They attended a lecture titled: “Private Archives: Therapeutic and Preventive Preservation of Manuscripts and Documents”, delivered by Ms. Sheikha Al Qahtani, Head of Preservation and Restoration Section at the NLA, in which she emphasized the importance of private archives preserved by individuals in the community and the necessity of preserving them, as they document historical facts that enrich the memory of the nation and contribute to fostering national identity. She introduced participants to the National Library and Archives’ role in preserving the memory of the nation, the she discussed the factors that contribute to the deterioration of private documents if not properly stored, and highlighted the benefits of preserving valuable private archives at the National Library and Archives. Al Qahtani also explained the mechanisms the National Library and Archives would follow to maintain, restore, and preserve these private documents. She further briefed the participants on the specialized storage facilities, the skilled technical staff, and the state-of-the-art equipment dedicated to preserving historical documents.
The participants took a tour of the preservation and restoration laboratory, where they were introduced to the modern and advanced techniques used in restoration and the work of specialists and experts.
It is noteworthy that, in its efforts to enhance the preservation and accessibility of the memory of the nation, the National Library and Archives, in collaboration with Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, is working to academically and practically qualify young people through professional certification, as well as bachelor’s and master’s programs in document management and archival sciences.

The National Library and Archives organizes the Digital Archiving in the Arab World Conference (DAAW|2024) in Abu Dhabi
The National Library and Archives (NLA) is organizing the international conference on Digital Archiving in the Arab world, to be held from October 29th to 30th 2024. Its goals are to enrich Arab digital content, examine issues of data preservation, promote Arab content, elevate digital archiving practices and experiences in the Arab world, and find solutions to archiving challenges. The conference sessions will engage researchers, experts, and professionals in exploring the current state of digital archiving in the Arab world and the future challenges.
Emphasizing the importance of the DAAW|2024 which will be co-hosted at the NLA’s headquarters and the Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi campus, His Excellency Abdullah Majed Al Ali, Director General of the NLA, said: “The NLA attaches great significance to digital archiving. It recognizes the importance of archiving and preserving the different types of knowledge as well as making them accessible via modern digital technologies, which are instrumental in data organization and management. Digital archiving eliminates the need for physical storage space and the risks of damage associated with improper handling. It ensures records’ longevity and transferability to future generations, as well as accessibility and retrieval. By using modern technologies, the NLA keeps millions of documents on dedicated computers and servers, continuing its ambitious strategy in the field of digital archiving and preserving data for as long as possible.”
He added: “Keeping pace with the rapidly evolving technologies, we look forward to attracting and applying best practices, global experiences, and expertise in digital archiving, as well as reinforcing the NLA’s role in enriching and enabling knowledge societies. I believe that this conference can build solid bridges to take advantage of the distinguished experiences, skills, expertise, and modern technologies, which will also leverage formal digital archiving in the UAE and enhance Arab digital archives.”
International Conference on Digital Archiving in the Arab World brings together more than 50 experts from across the globe, along with students from Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi and many government entities in the UAE.
The International Conference on Digital Archiving in the Arab World receives a huge support from numerous Arab and international cultural institutions, such as The French National Centre for Scientific Research, Bibliotheca Alexandrina, and Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi.
It’s worth noting that the NLA hosted the first edition of the archiving conference in the Arab world in October 2019.

Sheikh Faisal bin Sultan Al Qassimi Praised the NLA’s Role, Achievements, Projects and Initiatives.

General Sheikh Faisal bin Sultan Al Qassimi praised the National Library and Archives (NLA) for its pioneering role in preserving the memory of the nation for future generations. He also commended the NLA’s contributions, achieved according to the highest standards and best practices in preserving and enabling the memory of the nation, emphasising the importance of understanding the past to shape the present and foresee the future.
During his visit to the NLA’s headquarters, Sheikh Faisal was greeted by His Excellency Abdulla Majid Al Ali, Director General of the NLA, along with the directors of the NLA Departments. The Director General introduced the NLA and its 2032 strategic plane emphasizing the NLA current achievements. His Excellency also showcased the significant achievement of the Encyclopedia of UAE History, which chronicles the national memory in addition to the documentary collections and civilizational achievements of the UAE. Additionally, he discussed key projects, and future initiatives aimed at fostering values of belonging to the land and loyalty to the wise leadership.
During his tour of the NLA facilities, His Highness inspected Sheikh Suroor Hall and reviewed the progress of the hall’s establishment. The hall chronicles a significant phase in the history of the UAE during its building and founding stages. The visit also included Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Hall, where His Highness received a detailed explanation. This hall offers a museum experience that embraces the past, documents the present, and anticipates the future by utilizing the latest innovative technologies and displaying methods to impresses visitors with a knowledge capsule that showcases the progress, development, and prosperity the UAE has achieved.
The visit concluded at Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Hall, where His Highness and his companions watched a documentary film that highlighted significant milestones in the history of the UAE.

The National Library and Archives Enriches Its Summer Programs for Students with Historical Documented Material

The National Library and Archives has enriched its Summer Educational Programs with several innovative scientific materials designed to capture the interest of students participating in summer activities. This was done with the aim of strengthening the values of national identity, loyalty to the homeland, and allegiance to the wise leadership, while instilling national principles in their hearts. They were also encouraged to choose good role models who can guide them as they continue the nation’s march, utilizing various educational tools that have successfully attracted students from different age groups.
As part of its contribution to the proper national upbringing of future generations, the National Library and Archives diverseid its educational programs with various subjects. At the forefront of which is the article: “Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed: Leadership and Pioneering”, which provides documented information and films from His Highness’s rich history of service and achievement – making him an exemplary role model for the generations who will carry the nation’s flag towards further progress and prosperity. In addition to “National Identity and its Practices,” and a new educational package of “Various Stories of Puppet Theater” narrated by children using dolls – representing the cartoon characters of the National Library and Archives – which were made for this purpose. They were designed by the National Library and Archives to enhance learning and promote imagination among children and also to provide the future generations with cultural information about the history, heritage, and popular culture of the UAE, its prominent landmarks, great leaders, and Emirati etiquette (Al Sana’a). The summer programs were further enriched with the story ‘Emirati Values,’ which imparts Emirati values inspired by the character of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his national principles, values, and virtues, foremost among them being tolerance.
And the story “The Nakhoda (Captain) and Pearl Banks,” which takes the students back to the prosperous pearl diving era in the UAE and the reliance of its inhabitants on this trade. The story highlights some of the key figures involved in this profession, such as the captain (Al Nokhada), the lead diver (Al Mjademy), and the roles of the diving crew. Additionally, the story: ‘Scientific Research’ which encourages students to adhere to the ethics of scientific research in selecting a title, relying on scientific facts, searching for information, and maintaining honesty, patience, perseverance, humility, and academic integrity, among other virtues.
The National Library and Archives opens its doors to student delegations, offering them lectures with national content and taking them on a tour of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Hall, which features the latest innovative technologies and presentation methods. These enrich students’ knowledge of the UAE’s history and heritage, strengthening their sense of belonging to the nation, loyalty to its wise leadership, and solidifying national identity in the hearts of future generations.
The National Library and Archives has successfully reached the largest segment of school students through its summer program activities, in collaboration with its strategic partners, such as the Sandooq Al Watan of the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence, the National Rehabilitation Center, the Juvenile Care Center, Emirates Association for Social Development, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Sharjah Institute for Heritage, and the Municipal Community Center , which coordinated the collaboration with ‘We Are All Police’ and the Family Development Foundation.

The National Library and Archives Celebrates Sheikh Zayed’s Efforts in Founding a Nation of Civilisation and Humanity

The National Library and Archives (NLA) organized a historical photo exhibition, and a lecture titled “Zayed: Founder of a Nation of Civilisation and Humanity”. The two events revealed important historical facts about Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s enduring legacy, highlighting his great efforts in achieving the nation development and prosperity, and highlighted Sheikh Zayed’s achievements, wisdom, goodwill in building the human, and his vision that has preceded his time in sustainability and preservation of national knowledge.
Dr Aisha Bilkhair, Research Advisor at the NLA, began her lecture by affirming that everyone who was close to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan drew from his wisdom and benefited from his experience in all aspects of life. This was acknowledged by the senior citizens as they recounted their memories of the period before and after the union’s establishment. She then highlighted important aspects of his honorable life and the significant developments the United Arab Emirates and its people witnessed through his noble efforts. She spoke about his noble lineage and his shared qualities with his grandfather, Zayed the Great. She noted that the remarkable transformation of the UAE into flourishing oases where life thrives, and the numerous vital and developmental projects that contributed to human advancement in various fields. All these heralded the establishment of the Union, which stands as a profound lesson in nation-building.
With documented information, the lecturer confirmed that after Sheikh Zayed assumed leadership in Abu Dhabi, he showed great interest in providing drinking water from Al Khatim and Al Saad to Abu Dhabi, and in constructing roads to facilitate communication among the people of the nation. He was known for personally checking on his people’s well-being and listening attentively to both the elderly and the young.
What further affirms his efforts in serving the environment and combating desertification is the planting of millions of palm trees, which he was committed to spreading and sustaining in Al Ain and across the entire UAE. He also placed great importance on Ghaf trees, preserving historical trees, and expanding green spaces throughout the UAE, defying the opinions of agricultural experts. The greatest example of his success is Sir Baniyas Island, the green sanctuary that demonstrated to the world that Sheikh Zayed was able to conquer the impossible.
The lecture, which was held in Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Hall, presented Zayed’s wise visions in transforming the UAE into a modern civil state, and his significant role in designing the architecture of Abu Dhabi. In this, he carefully balanced the preservation of authentic Emirati traditions with the needs of contemporary society. He also played a pivotal role in creating the UAE’s emblem, flag, national anthem, and currency, and was deeply committed to the happiness and well-being of his people, ensuring they had access to all necessary services from birth. In addition, he was keen to keep pace with the global developments, which required him to work tirelessly around the clock for the advancement of the UAE and its people.
Dr Aisha Bilkhair presented the views of several men who accompanied Sheikh Zayed, such as Sheikh Salem bin Ham Al Amri, Muhanna Butti Al Qubaisi, Abdullah bin Mohamed Masoud Al Muhairbi and Sheikh Mubarak Bin Qaran Al Mansouri, and others.
The lecturer – through photos and documents – highlighted Sheikh Zayed’s efforts in attracting successful and distinctive experiences from the countries he visited and developing them within the UAE, emphasizing that the progress the UAE witnessed during his blessed reign made him an exemplary leader who carried the responsibility with confidence and integrity, earning him the status of a role model for future generations.
The lecturer affirmed that Sheikh Zayed’s wise and insightful vision has greatly contributed to the progress and development that the United Arab Emirates is experiencing under its wise leadership, which continues to follow the path of the founder and builder.
The National Library and Archives organized a historical photo exhibition at its headquarters, showcasing images from its Historical Archive Section, that document the march and remarkable achievements of the founding leader, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The National Library and Archives is pleased to welcome visitors interested in viewing the historical photo exhibition.