As Part of its 2025 Cultural Season,
The National Library and Archives Organizes a Lecture on “Al Ain Oases: A Model of Comprehensive Sustainability”

As part of its 2025 cultural season and in alignment with the Year of Community, the National Library and Archives Organized a Lecture titled “Al Ain Oases: A Model of Comprehensive Sustainability”. The participants highlighted the unique characteristics of Al Ain’s oases as an inspiring Emirati model of harmony between humanity and nature, and as a practical embodiment of the values of sustainability.
The speakers emphasized that Al Ain Oases have always been and will continue to be a thriving social and economic environment that carries aspects of authentic fearures of the Emirati identity. They noted that the oases represent both natural and human treasure, where elements of nature blend with the essence of heritage to create a splendid scene that brings together the greenery of palm trees and the flowing waters of the aflaj. This unique integration forms a cultural landscape worthy of inclusion on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
The lecture was moderated by Mr. Mohamed Ismaeel Abdulla, Researcher at the National Library and Archives, and featured the participation of Professor Dr. Yahya Ahmed from UAE University; Dr. Asma Al Mammari from Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities; and Ms Mariam Al Jneibi from TRENDS Research and Advisory.
At the beginning of the lecture, Dr. Yahya Ahmed spoke about the seven oases of Al Ain: Al Ain, Al Jahili, Al Qattara, Al Mutaredh, Al Jimi, Al Muwaiji, and Hili. He explained that these oases represent a unique model of sustainability, rdeep-ooted in the Emirati people’s rich heritage and their wisdom in living in harmony with the environment. Dr. Yahya also showcased the aflaj system, which is connected by nine main channels, emphasizing its role in ensuring water and agricultural security in the past. He further highlighted the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s keen interest in preserving and developing this integrated system.
Furthermore, Dr. Asma Al Mammari, in her paper, explored Sheikh Zayed’s enlightened vision for the development of the city of Al Ain and his pioneering efforts in addressing challenges related to water, agriculture, and various social and economic aspects of life. She highlighted his His insightful vision in managing the aflaj with fairness, achieving sustainability through engaging community members in the preservation of natural resources, thus making Al Ain a model of environmental awareness and sustainable development.
Ms. Mariam Al Jneibi drew attention to the cultural and environmental role of Al Ain oases, describing them as a vibrate space that integrates history, knowledge and innovation. She emphasized that the oases are not merely an agricultural area, but a living national memory that reflects the relationship between people and their environment, presenting to the world an aspiring Emirati message of sustainable development that values heritage and benefits from modern science.
The lecture concluded by emphasizing the importance of continuing specialized scientific research in the fields of environmental heritage and sustainability. It also stressed the need to strengthen the presence of Al Ain oases as a pioneering national model for environmental, educational, and research tourism and as a cultural icon that unites the UAE’s glorious legacy with its inspiring future.