National Archives and Dubai Expo 2020 Discuss Strengthening Cooperation

The National Archives of the United Arab Emirates received at its headquarters a delegation representing Dubai Expo 2020, where the two sides discussed strengthening their cooperation in several fields related to both sides.  The two parties agreed to put together a plan to exchange expertise and services.

Based on the importance of joining efforts, H.E. Dr. Abdulla Mohammad Alraisi, Director General of the National Archives, received the Dubai Expo 2020 delegation headed by Mr. Najeeb Mohammed Al Ali, Executive Director of Dubai Expo 2020 Bureau.  Both parties discussed means of strengthening ties between them.  During the meeting, the delegation reviewed their latest preparations for the country's major event.  The National Archives expressed its willingness to collaborate and to provide anything needed such as historical documents and documentary films that will provide pages of the history of the country, the establishment of the Union and aspects of its deep-rooted heritage.  The National Archives will provide material that ensures providing the perfect picture of the country for all attendees to ensure loyalty and belonging to the homeland, and instilling national identity in the hearts of the people of the UAE.

The guests were briefed on the role of the National Archives in preserving historical documents and records, and the extent of its dependence on modern and advanced technologies, due to its advanced position among similar international centers, and the services it provides to researchers, as well as its publications that document important aspects of the history of the UAE.

Members of the delegation toured Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan’s Hall, where they were briefed on its collections, which highlight the stages of the establishment of the Union, and the efforts made by the Founding Fathers to make the Union a success. The delegation also viewed historic collections and NA Publication.

In Sheikh Muhammed Bin Zayed Virtual Reality Hall, the guests watched a 3-D documentary film about the past and present of the UAE, the National Archives and its role in preserving the Nation’s memory, presenting  the history and heritage of the UAE and the Gulf area.

In Celebration of Zayed Day for Humanitarian Work, the National Archives Participates in the Ramadan Forum of the Egyptian Women's Association


In celebration of Zayed Day for Humanitarian Work, and in conjunction with the Year of Zayed, the National Archives participated in the Ramadan Forum, organized by the Egyptian Women's Association, at the Rotana Beach Hotel in Abu Dhabi. The participation of the National Archives in this event reflects the strong relations between the two brotherly countries, the United Arab Emirates and the Arab Republic of Egypt, and demonstrates the social and national roles of the National Archives in preserving and documenting the history of the late founding leader, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and his major role in the establishment of the Union.  

The gathering was attended by a number of dignitaries, including the Egyptian Ambassador to the UAE Wael Gad and his wife, the Egyptian Cultural Attaché in the UAE Dr. Amjad Al-Gohary, members of the Association, and a large number of guests.

The participation of the National Archives in the Ramadan Forum included an exhibition of some historical photos documenting different aspects of the brotherly UAE-Egypt relations, which reached its peak during the reign of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.  The exhibit also documented visits by the founding leader of the UAE to the Arab Republic of Egypt, his meetings with Egyptian presidents and officials, and the role of the leadership of the two brotherly countries in strengthening and maintaining good relations.



The ceremony started with a speech delivered by the President of the Egyptian Women's Association, Mrs. Ghada El Ashri, who said that the name of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan was always associated with all kinds of giving and humanitarian charity, pointing out that the UAE became in his era one of the most important contributors to humanitarian work, and has gained distinction and recognition. The humanitarian and charitable issues have assumed a high place in Zayed's priorities and interest inside and outside the country.  She mentioned that the wise leadership is following his footsteps in taking responsibilities, carrying the banner of humanitarian work, and pursuing the processes of development. The President of the Egyptian Organization thanked the National Archives for its role in strengthening institutional relations, through the participation in celebrating this precious occasion.



Dr. Aisha Bilkhair, Research Advisor in the National Archives, delivered a speech entitled "Sheikh Zayed and Egypt: Humanitarian Work". In her speech, she affirmed that Sheikh Zayed's humanitarian donations included the support of Egypt's vital development projects, which promote the livelihood of Egyptians, and focus on vital sectors in Egypt such as health care, transportation services, education, energy, housing and food security. These projects aim at creating an economic process that contributes positively to sustainable development.



The lecture referred to the historical role played by the late Sheikh Zayed since the establishment of the friendly relation between the two countries, when he ordered economic aid to Egypt, due to damage and destruction caused by the 1967 and 1973 wars.  In 1995, sheikh Zayed ordered the building of "Zayed City" in Egypt, to house 150,000 people. The wise current leadership in the UAE are following the footsteps of the founding father, in terms of political and economic support of the Republic of Egypt.  The UAE is Egypt's third largest trading partner.



The lecture also discussed the role of the late Sheikh Zayed in strengthening the cultural relations with Egypt, which resulted in building a modern capital.  The Egyptian Engineer Abdul Rahman Hasanin Makhlouf participated in the development of the plans to build the city of Bu Dhabi and its Market, which brought together people with beautiful memories that contribute to their happiness, and promotes the spirit of tolerance, brotherhood, and harmony, which are based on the values and concepts of the UAE society. Egyptian Saad Abdel Wahab composed the UAE National Anthem in 1971.  Sheikh Zayed invited the famous Arab singer Umm Kulthum to visit Abu Dhabi. In appreciation of her historic visit, Sheikh Zayed gave her a gift of natural pearl necklace made in 1880, composed of 1888 natural pearls. As a gesture of appreciation of the strong mutual relations, Zayed named some local sports' teams after names of major Egyptian sports'  teams. This reflect team spirit, as well as the depth of the friendly relations.



Dr. Bilkhair highlighted the books published by the National Archives, including a book about the recollections of the mission of the Egyptian Dar Al Hilal Publishing House during their visit to Abu Dhabi in 1968, and a book entitled (Umm Kulthum in Abu Dhabi).

The National Archives organized, at its premises, a training course entitled “Files Inventory at Government Entities”. More than 40 employees involved in documents and records management had attended the training. The one-day course program included three main topics, namely: preparation for the files-inventory procedure, its implementation mechanism and its outcomes.

The National Archives trains government entities employees on files inventory 

The National Archives organized, at its premises, a training course entitled “Files Inventory at Government Entities”. More than 40 employees involved in documents and records management had attended the training. The one-day course program included three main topics, namely: preparation for the files-inventory procedure, its implementation mechanism and its outcomes. At the end of the course, the National Archives distributed certificates to participants. This course comes in line with the National Archives’ aim to organize and develop government archives in accordance with Federal Law No. (7) of 2008 on the National Archives, amended by Federal Law No. (1) of 2014 and the executive regulation thereof, and its efforts to train and qualify archival calibers in government entities for documents and archives management.

The training course delivered by experts from the National Archives focused on the importance of documents inventory and on the details of each of its stages. The NA experts noted that the preparation for documents inventory procedure calls for identifying the related locations where documents inventory is required, preparing labels for locations, shelves and cabinets codification, placing labels on their appropriate respective places and informing the organizational unit of the inventory start date.

Following this, the course turned to discussing the main stage, namely inventory procedure implementation. In this stage, the file number, address and date are specified and the files data are documented in the documents inventory form.

Regarding developing an inventory for scattered archives, the experts stressed the importance of reorganizing these archives in a scientific and methodical way. They explained to the participants the applicable rules, procedures and instructions in that field.

It is worth mentioning that the National Archives works on organizing the Government and official entities’ archives through conducting diagnostic visits. It also trains and qualifies government entities employees through conducting introductory symposiums through which it managed to raise awareness on the importance of documentation and archiving, to safeguard archives against documents loss or random destruction, and to limit improper practices there to a minimal rate or stop them completely.

The National Archives organizes charitable and humanitarian initiatives during the holy month of Ramadan


In the context of charity and humanitarian work in the holy month of Ramadan, as part of the “Year of Zayed” initiatives, the staff of the National Archives of the United Arab Emirates organized a number of charitable and humanitarian initiatives in a Ramadan campaign entitled " Zayed; More Benevolence and Charitableness", which aims at promoting human and spiritual values, and providing assistance for all those in need inside and outside the National Archives.



The National Archives initiative is a collaboration effort with Red Crescent, and other charitable organizations in the country.  At the same time, NA motivates its staff to participate in the Ramadan campaign, by making a daily round with envelops to collect donations from each Department, and post numbers on the intranet system.



The National Archives divided its project into the 4 weeks of Ramadan. In the first week's initiative, entitled “Feeding Fasting People”, donations were collected to provide meals for fasting laborers within the National Archives, during the whole month of Ramadan. During the second week of Ramadan, the donations went to sponsoring orphans, as the National Archives is looking forward to sponsor 100 orphans permanently or temporarily. In week 3, the National Archives looks forward to allocating donations for its project “providing drinking water”, by providing cooling refrigerators to be distributed to mosques, and will carry the donors' name as "National Archives Staff".  Fourth week donations will cover "Zakat Al Fitr" (Ramadan’s Alms), and will be delivered to deserving people.



The National Archives staff response to the Ramadan initiatives was rapid, especially in the first half of the holy month, which witnessed a clear competition between employees, and resulted in generous contributions to the above-mentioned charity projects.



The National Archives' major partner in charity work is the UAE Red Crescent.  RC sent its delegates to spend a whole day of work within the National Archives with all employees throughout the month of Ramadan, providing cash and electronic means of donations, making donations easier for employees, and making them more confident that their donations will be delivered to those who need them.



The National Archives' Ramadan charity projects are part of NA's community responsibility reflexing the efforts of the Founding Leader, the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nhayan, who is the example of philanthropy and human generosity.   The UAE has followed his approach to become the largest donor that stands at the forefront in the world in terms of charitable giving.

The National Archives' Ramadan Charity and benevolence projects aim at delivering donations during Ramadan, through the Red Crescent, to deserving people during Ramadan every year, when people's tendency to give is most prominent.



Two years ago, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Red Crescent, the National Archives carried out a charitable campaign resulted in building five mosques and digging two fresh water wells. The projects were named after the National Archives.  The mosques' capacity is 800 people, built in Mauritania, Somalia, Burkina Faso, Mali, and India.  The two water wells were in India and Mali.     

The National Archives presents hundreds of copies of the book "Khalifa…. Journey into the Future", to Khalifa Bin Zayed Foundation.


Within the framework of cooperation between the two sides, the National Archives presented to Khalifa Bin Zayed Foundation 400 copies of the book entitled, "Khakifah Bin Zayed… Journey into the Future", to be distributed to staff of the Foundation and its guests.

The books were received by H.E. Mr. Mohammed Haji khoury, Director-General of the Khalifah Bin Zayed Foundation, upon receiving Mr. Farhan Al Marzouqi, Director of Corporate and Community Outreach Department at the National Archives.

"Khalifah….Journey into the Future", published by the National Archives in Arabic and English, includes information about H.H. Sheikh khalifa's birth, childhood, and his education, as well as his efforts in developing, empowerment and construction. The book pointed out that His Highness was the eldest son of late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and was attached to him; thus inherited his father's genuineness, ethics, generosity and courage.  During the developmental boom, he led several initiatives for the benefit of the citizens, which received the blessing and support of his father, who delegated many responsibilities to him.

The book documents the record of accomplishment of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and the impact of his exceptional leadership, which extends throughout the Arab world and the international arena. It also highlights Sheikh Khalifa's fascinating and interesting story.

The book explores the most important stages in Sheikh Khalifa's life, documents his career, and highlights his presidency in the past 15 years. He has emerged not only as a statesman on the world stage, but also as a beloved leader and patriarchal figure among his people.    

The National Archives Delivers Lectures on Zayed’s History in Italian Forums

Coinciding with the Year of  Zayed, and in the framework of the Centennial Initiative launched by the National Archives and in celebration of the centennial birth of the Founding Leader, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the National Archives, in coordination with the UAE Embassy in Italy, arranged visits to a number of cultural forums and Italian universities and held lectures and panel discussions. These lectures dealt with aspects of Sheikh Zayed's leadership insights that go beyond the UAE borders to various parts of the world, and they aim to represent the values of good and build bridges of peace between peoples.

The lectures of the National Archives at Italy universities and cultural circles recorded great number of attendees who were impressed by UAE's history and heritage and the achievements it made in a record time at the hands of its Founding Leader Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his successor. These lectures were part of the National Archives’ projects commemorating the centennial birth of the Founding Leader with the aim of introducing the history of the UAE and its civilization, which made it a beacon that draws the world’s attention to its experience in building and development in various spheres of life.


The lectures, delivered by Dr. Aisha Bilkhair, the Research Advisor at the National Archives, focused on Sheikh Zayed’s great work for his nation and the whole humanity. They also shed light on his wise leadership, which resulted in his great role in developing his country and his people and providing decent living standards for all who live in the UAE. He attached great importance to women making them essential partners in the process of a comprehensive renaissance and in the march of building and progress.

The lectures were delivered in a number of academic, official and cultural circles. At the Catholic University of Milan, students of Arabic and Islamic civilization attended a lecture entitled: "Zayed in Oral Memory", which reviewed the accounts of Sheikh Zayed’s companions about his deeds and personal qualities, which impressed them and filled them with authentic Bedouin values and principles.

At the University of Rome Tor Vergata, graduate students of the Faculties of Science, Politics, Technology and Law attended a lecture entitled "The UAE: Model Cities that Reflect a Human, Civilized and Future Experience”. The lecture included a study of historical documents, maps and images, as well as an explanation of the development of UAE cities throughout history, and the role of Sheikh Zayed in settling Bedouins and building cities of the future.

At the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) meetings, ministers and dignitaries from United Nations organizations participating in the meetings attended a lecture entitled “Zayed and Environmental Heritage”. The lecture highlighted Sheikh Zayed's pioneering experience in combating desertification, his drive for model agriculture, and the establishment of natural reserves that preserve and sustain natural resources.

At the University of Luiss in Rome, MA and PhD students specializing in Arabic language and Islamic Civilization attended a lecture entitled "Zayed in Oral Narrations", which dealt with Sheikh Zayed's interest in oral history, with an explanation of the mechanisms and procedures for collecting oral history.

At the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Rome, students of the Diplomatic Academy of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs attended a lecture entitled "Zayed: the Building a Nation and Civilization". It discussed the ideals that the late Sheikh Zayed employed to build the state, and described his understanding of civilized values that contributed positively to building a civilized homeland

At the residence of His Excellency the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates in Rome, the Ambassadors' wives, members of the diplomatic corps and female socialites attended a lecture entitled "Zayed and Women: Empowerment to Leadership. “The lecture reviewed the role of Sheikh Zayed and the efforts of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak "Mother of the Emirates" to overcome the challenges women faced and the mechanism they used reaching to empowerment. It also shed light on the future policy regarding women leadership, and establishing the principle of gender parity as an authentic Emirati approach.

It is worth mentioning that the National Archives has doubled its activities and national events during the Year of Zayed, and held events abroad to introduce Sheikh Zayed’s history, his legacy and his leading role in building the UAE and its auspicious Union, in official academic and cultural forums in Arab and foreign countries.

National Archives Delegation Visits “The Founder’s Memorial”


In celebration of the centennial birth of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the exceptional leader who devoted his life to the happiness of his people, a delegation from the National Archives, headed by Executive Director H.E. Majid Al Mehairi visited “The Founder’s Memorial”,  where they toured the Memorial, which was established to be a permanent national tribute to Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and to celebrate and recount his values, ideas and memorable achievements.

H.E. Majid Al Mehairi said, "The Memorial” is a piece of art, and a bridge between the past and present.  It reflects the legacy of the "Sage of the Arabs", who had dedicated his life to the building of his nation, serving his people and realizing their dreams of a good life.

Al Mehairi also said: as we stand in front of this symbolic monument, during the centennial birth of Sheikh Zayed, we find ourselves face to face with the wise vision, which built a unified homeland that enjoys the well-being, coexistence, tolerance and all the values advocated by the Founding Leader.

H.E. added that this artistic and creative work, with the history of the Founding Leader it offers, is considered an inexhaustible source of inspiration for future generations to learn the love and belonging to the homeland. Future generations will receive through this “Memorial” information about Sheikh Zayed's contributions to the UAE, the region and the whole world, as well as aspects of his biography, which will remain a beacon for all noble people who dedicate their lives for the nation.

The National Archives delegation included all Departments' Directors, Heads of Sections, in addition to NA Consultants and Experts.

Zayed's Memorial tour is an interesting scientific tour of a monument situated in the middles of green fields decorated with trees and local plants, where visitors can see pages of Sheikh Zayed’s biography through photographs, narrations and multi-media, in the middle of nature and green areas.

In collaboration with Emirates National Schools

The National Archives concluded  "Following the Footsteps of Zayed Al-Khair" Forum refereeing students’ research. The winners were: Zayed and Health, Zayed and Education.

The National Archives of the United Arab Emirates, in collaboration with the Emirates National Schools Group, concluded the Student Research Refereeing Forum entitled "Following the Footsteps of Zayed Al-Khair". Most of the participating research characterized by their scientific value and students’ adoption of scientific methodology when researching the history of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan providing ample details of his achievements, his efforts and giving that resulted in establishing the UAE among the most advanced countries in the world. His achievements contributed to linking the present generations to the founding leader’s values and his history of giving.



Zayed and Education, which is a research prepared by the male students of Emirates National School - Abu Dhabi Campus, won the first place, another research entitled Zayed and Education, which is prepared by the female students of Emirates National School – Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah Campus, also won first place.


This forum saw the participation of more than a hundred research papers on the founding leader’s achievements, which should be instilled in the students, and of which this year Students’ Research Refereeing Forum is proud. These research papers are full of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s achievements and values that must be promoted in the society, because of their role in proper national upbringing. The forum was full of experiences that urge positive behavior, and inspiring humanitarian stories about challenges and triumphs.

HE Majid Sultan Al Muhairi, Executive Director of the National Archives, gave the opening speech welcoming all participants. He said: "We are pleased to have these significant scientific research papers that discuss the history of the immortal leader Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the details of his achievements and giving. Furthermore, we are pleased to instill these precious values in our student’ hearts to enable them to be good citizens who serve the nation and maintain the achievements of the wise leadership that follows the approach set by the late Sheikh Zayed. Moreover, students’ research papers participating in this year's forum prompted students to reflect on Sheikh Zayed's biography deducing awareness and community messages that promote moral values.

He added: "from the biography of Sheikh Zayed, we derive the ability to give, and his accomplishments and great deeds will continue to be a beacon to guide us on the path of belonging to the homeland and loyalty to our wise leadership. Survived by a legacy of good deeds, Sheikh Zayed is a great leader whom the world selected as an icon of wisdom.

Al Muhairi said: "As we declare the winners of this research and national project, we thank Emirates National Schools for their unique approach to education and their keenness to nurture their students with the love of our country. This prompted the Emirates National Schools to collaborate with the National Archives to complement their role by making the historical records and documents of the Emirates Library accessible to their students. Hence, their research papers contained documented historical information that made them significantly more valuable. 

The Executive Director congratulated the winners and thanked the of the students’ parents for supporting their children, the future generation, until they reached this level of success, diligence and commitment. He considered all those who made it to this platform to be winners.

This project attracted 600 students from all branches of Emirates National Schools in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah. The National Archives supported the students who visited its headquarters in pursuit of supporting their research with historical documents, photographs, maps and multimedia, and it provided the documented information enriching their research.

On the other hand, Dr. Kenneth Vedra, Director General of Emirates National Schools Group, expressed his appreciation to the National Archives for its continued cooperation and support for the students, its strategic partnership and its commitment to shaping the students' personality to build the country and bear the responsibility efficiently in the future. Dr. Vedra praised Emirates National School students’ scientific research competencies, and their noble national sense that bodes well

After the presentation of the students’ qualified research papers, Ms. Amina Al-Jabri from the Emirates National Schools reviewed and evaluated the research papers and offered her advice and feedback to the students.

It is worth mentioning that the research papers that male students submitted to the refereeing forum were declared the winners as follows; Zayed and Education, Emirates National Schools, Abu Dhabi Campus, Zayed and Heritage, Emirates National Schools, Al Ain City Campus, and Bullying, Emirates National Schools, Mohammed Bin Zayed City Complex.

As for the research papers prepared by the female students of the Emirates National Schools, the following were declared the winners consecutively: Zayed and Health, Ras Al Khaimah Campus, Preservation of Blessings, Abu Dhabi Complex, and People of Determination, Mohammed Bin Zayed City Campus.

The research papers of this project, which targets ninth graders at Emirates National Schools exclusively, are not only theoretical. In fact, the participating team is required to deliver a community awareness message that promote moral values that serve the society and contribute to the dissemination of national knowledge. This prompted students to prepare informative brochures about the deduced moral message in their research. They also launched media campaigns reaching out to the targeted audience, held specialized meetings in the field of research to strengthen research themes, talked persuasively to the public, gave out gifts, and organized events, etc.

The National Archives celebrates the signing of the book entitled "Development of Education in the United Arab Emirates" at Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2018

The signing corner at Abu Dhabi International Book Fair witnessed the signing of the book entitled "Development of Education in the United Arab Emirates" recently published by the National Archives. Distinguished dignitaries, journalists and authors attended the signing ceremony.

The author, Mohammed Hassan Al Harbi, signed issues of the book in the presence of Hamad Al Hamiri, Director of Research and Knowledge Services Department in the National Archives, and a large number of the exhibition's visitors.

The importance of this book, published by the National Archives, stems from the fact that it documents the development of education in the UAE in the period from 1904 to 1971, which started at the hands of traditional religious teachers "Al Mutawa'ah" and eventually reached the stage of formal education.

The book indicates that education started by the "Mutawa'ah" who established "Katateeb" at their residents in settled communities. In many cases, that education did not exceed reading of the Qur’an and teaching students how to memorize it. Students rarely passed this stage to learn other sciences or subjects.

 In the preface to the book, Mr. Abdul Ghaffar Hussein notes that it is very difficult to date back the creation of the "Katateeb" by "Mutawa’ah" in the coast of Oman or the UAE to a particular time; since it is known that the "Katateeb" are an old tradition in communities, villages and countryside, and are still so in many remote small areas in Islamic countries. 

Mr. Abdul Ghaffar Hussein confirms that another form of education, that was more advanced than the " Katateeb" of the "Mutawa’ah", dates back  in the UAE to a time earlier than the beginning of the 20th century, when we hear about schools such as: Al Taimiyya, Al Falah and Al Ahmadiyya in Sharjah and Dubai.  One might refer to manuscripts written by the people of the UAE, such as the books of the famous seafarer Ahmed Bin Majid, which date back to the fifteenth century AD, and of Captain Saeed Bin Ahmad Bin Matar in the early nineteenth century, as well as some manuscripts on jurisprudence, pearl weights and others which date back to the middle of the ninth century AH. At the end of the preface, Abdul Ghaffar Hussein asserts that only in the early 1960s did the UAE begin to experience the earliest modern formal education.

His Excellency Mohammed Al Murr indicates in the introduction to the book that  the story of the early education in the UAE is that of great desire and eagerness of the UAE people to free themselves from ignorance and backwardness, and to join their fellow Arabs who went ahead of them in this vital and important field.

Al Murr pointed out that education in the UAE has gone through three phases: the Katateeb, small sparse schools, and formal education. He then stresses the points mentioned to him by the distinguished scholar and author Hashim Al Hashimi who witnessed the stage of education with sparse small schools in the Emirate of Dubai, and followed that by talking about the flaws of the beginning of formal education as mentioned by the respected scholar Mr. Rafiq Ja'arour, who witnessed that stage.

In the introduction to the second edition published by the National Archives, the author Mohammad Hassan Al Harbi indicated that the first edition was published in 1988 by the Union of UAE Writers and Authors in Sharjah. Previously, it was published in the form of eleven weekly reports under the same title, in Al Khaleej daily Newspaper in 1983.

The author notes that this book documents part of the oral history of the UAE and the leading vision that is the main pillar of the UAE. He states that this study will ensure that future generations will have a clear, incessant and unremitting history, which will have positive effects on UAE people and their cultural identity.

The author explains that this book includes a historical stage starting from the beginning of the twentieth century (1904) and ending at the establishment of the UAE in 1971, i.e. since education was transformed from its primitive form "the Katateeb" to its more modern sophisticated formal form, which the early 1960s represent the beginning of its inception in several of the UAE Emirates, particularly in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah. Al Harbi stresses that the importance of this book stems from being the first book to chronicle the development of education in the UAE.

The book starts with education in Abu Dhabi, pointing out that it began with three schools for boys, indicating that formal education started in Abu Dhabi in 1958 but stopped in 1959 and then resumed in 1961. Secondly, the author turns to education in Dubai, where he questions whether Al Ahmadiyya School was the first school in Dubai. Does the date (1912 AD) written on one of its walls represent its construction date? Then he moves to Al Falah and Al Ahmadiyya schools and to their education system, subjects, teachers, students, number of classes and cultural activities.

The author interviews one of the female teachers "Mutawa’a", but with certain restrictions and conditions including: not to meet her face to face, to keep the meeting concise, and with no photos taken. In this meeting, the "Mutawa’a" Fatima Bint Sheikh Khalifa Bin Jum’a Bin Ghaith talks about her traditional education profession, which she practiced for 22 years ending in 1975, where she taught the Qur’an, Arabic Alphabet and grammar. Each students used to pay her a rupee or two monthly, while education continued throughout the year including summer and winter. The interview contained important details about this form of traditional education.

After which the book moves to education in Sharjah, starting this chapter with Al Taimiyyah School where education started in 1955. This school, later called "Al Islah" i.e. reform, was founded and managed by the late Ali Bin Mohammed Bin Ali Al Mahmoud Al Tamimi, a pearl merchant in Sharjah.  

The book monitors the development of education, referring to the subjects that were taught in "Al Mutawa’a", the fees paid for education, the relationship between the traditional teachers "al-Mutawa’" whether male or female and the student. It also introduces Al Qasimiya school, its classes, teachers, and its first female teacher, a Palestinian called Sharifa Al Ba’ba’, assisted by Saleha Al Mutawa’.  Then it addresses some of the difficulties and anecdotes the traditional teachers witnessed.  The book mentions (Fatima Al Zahra) Girls' School, which is the Qasimiya Girls' School itself, documenting the schools established in the 1950s and after, the first scholarship abroad, the first student from Sharjah to study abroad, the education related festivals that are held yearly, donations and the role of traders in these festivals.

The book also depicts education in Ajman and pinpoints Al Rashidiya School, its classes and students, then girls' education in Ajman, and cultural activities and festivals.

When the book turns to education in Ras Al Khaimah, it starts with Al Qasimiya elementary school, which used to be an old traditional house, followed by the "Seddiq secondary school". Then the book moves to "Al Jazeera Al Hamra" to monitor the development of education there. In all cases, it reviews salaries, the subjects taught in Al Qasimiya school of Ras Al Khaimah, parents' cooperation, festivals, teaching girls, and names of students. The book also shows interest in kindergartens, and includes charts, statistics and old rare photographs.

Book: Development of Education in the United Arab Emirates (1904-1972).

Author: Mohammad Hassan Al Harbi.

Publisher: National Archives, Abu Dhabi, 2017, second edition, 127 pages.

The National Archives Launches “Umm Kulthum in Abu Dhabi”

On the First Day of Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2018

As per the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, the National Archives presents at Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2018, several historical publications on the occasion of the “Year of Zayed”.

Among these new publications, which document bright aspects of the rich and glorious history of the UAE, is the book: “Umm Kulthum in Abu Dhabi”, which highlights an important stage of our modern cultural history. In 1971, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Leader of the United Arab Emirates, invited the Arab Singer Umm Kulthum to participate in the celebrations that were held at the end of November 1971 in commemoration of his 5th Accession Day Anniversary and the establishment of the United Arab Emirates. The Arab Singer gratefully accepted the kind invitation, and was welcomed as a distinguished guest. She held two concerts where she performed her latest songs. She also visited Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan at Al Manhal Palace, where she was well received and honored by him. She was also honored by Umm Al Emarat (the Mother of the UAE), Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, who held a special celebration on the occasion of Umm Kulthum’s visit to Abu Dhabi.

“Umm Kulthum in Abu Dhabi” is a book that documents this important artistic and cultural event with beautiful pictures. It follows the different stops of the visit, from Umm Kulthum leaving Cairo Airport to reaching Abu Dhabi Airport, as well as the first concert sponsored and attended by the Late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and many Sheikhs, ministers, officials and senior visitors who came from outside the UAE to congratulate Sheikh Zayed on his 5th Accession Day Anniversary. The photo album also documents Umm Kulthum’s visit to Al Manhal Palace to greet Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

The book “Umm Kulthum in Abu Dhabi” is one of the important books published by the National Archives to document many of the bright historical stages of the UAE’s modern history.

Novelist Mohammed Al Murr, Deputy Chairman of the National Archives, who supervised the editing of the book, wrote a comprehensive foreword, which put Umm Kulthum’s visit to Abu Dhabi within its historical framework. The visit came during one of the most important stages of the country’s modern history, a golden stage which was started by the late Sheikh Zayed assuming office in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and announcing the establishment of the UAE, the dream of Zayed, the dream of the Founding Leaders, and the dream of the people of the UAE. 

With the participation of the visitors of Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2018,

The National Archives launches its new publications and continues its projects in the “Year of Zayed”.

The National Archives has completed its preparations for the 28th edition of Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, which will be held from 25 April to 1 May 2018. The National Archives will display in its Pavilion at the Book Fair its mission, vision and objectives, as well as its publications that document the history and heritage of the UAE and the Gulf region. The NA will inform the visitors of the exhibition about the services it provides to researchers, academics and students, which promote the values of belonging to the homeland and loyalty to its wise leadership, and the worth of knowledge among members of society.

The National Archives’ activities during the Book Fair include the signing of five books of its latest publications, in the presence of their authors and visitors of the exhibition. These books are:

1- Unraveling the Biography of Sheikh Tahnoun (Edah Al Maknoon Fi Sirat Al Sheikh Tahnoun). 

2- Electricity Services in the Trucial States (Al Khadamat Al Kahraba’iya Fi Al Sahil Al Mutasalih).

3- Development of Education in the UAE (Tatawor Al-Ta’aleem Fi Al Emarat Alarbia Al Muttahida). 

4- Forts and Towers in Al Dhafra Area (Al Qila’ Wa Al Abraj Fi Manteqat Al Dhafra).

5- Umm Kulthum in Abu Dhabi (Umm Kulthum Fi Abu Dhabi). 

At its Pavilion at Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2018, the National Archives will display more than 50 of its most important publications as well as the in-demand editions of Liwa, which is a refereed journal issued bi-annually in both Arabic and English. In fact, Liwa contents discuss the history of the United Arab Emirates and the Gulf region to fulfill the NA’s mission of creating historical awareness and promoting national identity. Its articles focus on the history and heritage of the UAE, as well as the development and prosperity it experienced after the establishment of the Union at the hands of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

The National Archives will allocate a special stand to introduce the projects of the “Centennial Initiative” launched to celebrate the “Year of Zayed”. The NA’s Pavilion will unveil the results of “Zayed, 100 Stories” project. This project aims to enhance belonging to the homeland and loyalty to the leadership, as well as developing students’ personality, fostering them with moral values and principles, and supporting them with methodology of scientific research and national writing.

On the first day of Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, the National Archives will allow a 100-day free download of its smart applications, which are included in NA’s available applications list.

Dr. Abdulla Mohammed Alraisi, Director General of the National Archives, said of this participation: "The NA’s interest in Abu Dhabi International Book Fair doubled up this year since it coincides with the “Year of Zayed”.  The National Archives is one of the most prominent national institutions that focused its efforts on documenting the biography of the Founding Leader Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Therefore, the National Archives finds in this cultural event, namely Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, an opportunity to present to the public some aspects of the Founding Leader’s memorable achievements, contributions and good traits, which verify his great belief that developing people starts with developing their thinking and culture.

He added: "The National Archives takes advantage of this period of cultural and intellectual activity, that takes place during the days of Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, to present to the public a number of its newly published books, which will enrich the knowledge of readers, writers, academics and researchers with documented information about the history and heritage of the UAE and the Gulf region. Such new books also introduce the readers to the biography of the Founding Leader Sheikh Zayed, who was able to establish the UAE and its auspicious union, thus enabling this modern and advanced state to be one of the world’s most developed countries. 

The Director General of the National Archives invited visitors and participants of Abu Dhabi International Book Fair to visit the NA’s Pavilion, where they can find cultural and intellectual creativity in various forms, which contributes to the promotion of national values and education among citizens, so the United Arab Emirates will continue to be a beacon of civilization and culture. 

It is worth mentioning that the National Archives will launch a number of its latest historical and specialized publications. It is pleased to invite you to visit its Pavilion at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair from 25 April to 1 May 2018, and to attend the launch of its latest national and specialized publications, according to the following schedule:

Book Title Author Venue Date

Time

Umm Kulthoum In Abu Dhabi Mohammed Al Murr NA’s Pavilion A35-A17 at ADNEC

Wednesday,

April 25, 2018

1:00 pm

Electricity Services in the Trucial States Aisha Al Qaidi

ADNEC- Signing Corner
 

Thursday,

April 26, 2018 7:30 pm

Forts and Towers in Al Dhafra Area Ali Al kindy Friday, April 27, 2018 7:00 pm

Development of Education in the UAE

Mohammed Hassan Al Harby Saturday, April 28, 2018 7:00 pm

Unraveling the Biography of Sheikh Tahnoun Abdulla Bin Mohammed Sunday, April 29, 2018 7:00 pm