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.

The National Archives discusses developing and updating its smart applications starting with Al Nahyan App

The National Archives discussed updating and developing its smart applications to cope with the current and coming phases and with the rapid recent technological advancement in a way that serves and satisfies researchers, academic staff, students and customers and leads to public interactions.

The National Archives development plan aims at aligning its smart apps constantly with the expectations of the public to provide documented information and achieve the strategic objectives of digital transformation.

The National Archives began by discussing the importance of updating and developing the Al-Nahyan App as it is one of the National Archives most important and prominent applications, since it contains vast information and numerous photographs. The applications will be developed through updating their information in line with the recent technological advancement, which increases the services provided to the public.

Through the Al-Nahyan App, the National Archives proved the importance of digital technology in fostering the national values among the society members, especially students. Hence, it strives to update its smart applications to keep pace with the recent development and reach aspirations.

The Al-Nahyan App is a smart and interactive application that presents hundreds of personalities starting with Yas up to the great grandchildren of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. This smart app introduces the most prominent and important members of Al Nahyan family tree, especially those who built and ruled Abu Dhabi and whose achievements and roles in developing the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the coast were recorded in history as Abu Dhabi became the premier power of the Trucial Coast under their reign.

The Al Nahyan App homepage contains photos of Sheikh Zayed and his sons. It is worth mentioning that he had governed the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, which witnessed considerable growth due to his experience and statesmanship. The foundation of the UAE is attributed to his persistent efforts as well as those rulers of the emirates. Their Highnesses, sons of Sheikh Zayed followed his example to protect the UAE and its accomplishments.

The National Archives has launched the Al-Nahyan App because of the importance of Al Nahyan family tree in the history of Abu Dhabi, in particular, and the UAE, in general. This smart and interactive app acqauints the present and future generations with the rulers of Abu Dhabi and the UAE as well as their everlasting mark on its glorious history and bright present. Learning about the lasting achievements of those great leaders promotes loyalty and belonging to the homeland and instills the national identity in citizens, which forms the core of the National Archives mission.

In line with the UAE’s strategy and the community and humanitarian role

The National Archives contributes to the national education of autistic children of Abu Dhabi Autism Center through unconventional methods.

In collaboration with Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, the National Archives organizes a number of programs and events for the children of Abu Dhabi Autism Center (ADAC). The NA is prompted by its adherence to the UAE comprehensive strategy towards people of determination and its interest in offering its services and contributions to the national education of generations to all segments of society and in performing its community role to the fullest as well as supporting and integrating autistic children into society.

Within the framework of its collaboration with Abu Dhabi Autism Center, the National Archives receives, at its headquarters, purposeful visits by autistic children to participate in art and reading workshops and enjoy some educational games. These events and activities are planned under the supervision of specialists to ensure their compatibility with the age group and level of autism of each category of the participants in the art and reading workshops and activities.

The program of each visiting delegation from Abu Dhabi Autism Center includes a visit to Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Hall where children enjoy the atmosphere of the hall contents and photographs especially those of the founding leader Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan- Papa Zayed in their own words- which show him building and developing the UAE. Next, children move to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Hall to watch a national 3D documentary film, which adds an unconventional educational dimension to the visit to awaken their hidden powers.

It is worth mentioning that the National Archives offers a special knowledge support to Abu Dhabi Autism Center in Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination. Not only does the National Archives collaborate with Abu Dhabi Autism Center, but it also offers its relevant activities and events to all autism centers and institutes in the UAE. It maintains close relations with Emirates Autism Society.

In its Latest Publications, The National Archives Reviews the Historical Development of the Judiciary in the UAE

The UAE has witnessed a tremendous development in the various fields, including legislation. Since its establishment in 1971, the Ministry of Justice has enacted hundreds of laws, which comprehensively transformed all aspects of life.

As the history of the judiciary in the United Arab Emirates represents the history of the state since its inception, the National Archives published The Historical Development of the Judiciary in the UAE Between The Tribal Lores and Secular Systems, by Dr. Rashid Mohammed Obaid Rushoud. The book documents the history of the judiciary and its development using the available documents in the Ministry of Justice, the documents in the civil and Shari’a court records, the documents in the National Archives, and the agreements concluded between the Government of the UAE and other governments.

Since its inception, the UAE has been interested in establishing justice and independence of the judiciary, and this concept has been further confirmed in its constitution which stipulated that, in performing their duties, judges shall be independent and shall not be subject to any authority other than the rule of law and their own conscience. The UAE’s judiciary is independent from the legislative and executive branches of government.

The book points out that the judiciary enjoys a high level of respect and prestige in human societies, and whoever worked in the judiciary is held in high esteem for the significant role played in restoring rights in societies that are not free from conflict between the good and the evil and between the strong and the weak.

The book consists of six chapters and a conclusion. Chapter I is entitled: Judiciary in Islam; it examines the stages of the development and independence of the judiciary. It starts with the judiciary in the era of the Prophet, and then in the era of the Righteous Caliphs, up to the Umayyad and the Abbasid eras. Chapter II deals with the tribal judiciary, its structure, its rules and its most important judges in the UAE during the British presence (1946-1971). It also highlights the jurisdiction and influence of the British Courts in the UAE. Chapter III deals with lore judiciary and its renowned judges, sources, procedures, rules and characteristics. Chapter IV discusses the judiciary after establishing the Union, the methods of judicial selection, besides the Attorney General, lawyers, experts, clerks and bailiffs. It also sheds light on courts and lawsuits. Chapter V deals with the Ministry of Justice during the reign of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and its successive ministers, activities, and affiliated departments, directorates and courts. Chapter VI lists the legislations as well as the judicial relations and agreements between the United Arab Emirates and the Arab and foreign countries. In fact, the book included some Arab and foreign documents.

The book defines the judicial system in plain language and terminology, and underscores the definition of judiciary given by Ibn Abdeen: “The judiciary is the ‎settlement of disputes, resolving them through the legal provisions taken from the Quran and the Sunnah”, The objective of the judiciary is the attainment of interests and benefits, and elimination of evil and harm; hence some Sharia scholars underscored the great purpose and noble goal of this eminent domain. It is based on the delivery of rights to their owners and the resolution of grievances and disputes with aim of achieving justice.

The book considers that the history of the judiciary in Dubai represents the history of Dubai itself. One of the judges in Dubai to whom the book points out is Sheikh Khamis, a dignified judge, who had gone to Al-Hasa to study Sharia siences and returned to Dubai during the regime of Sheikh Maktoum Bin Hasher Bin Maktoum Bin Butti, who took power during 1884-1906. Hassan Al Khazraji succeeded him and took over the judiciary; he used to carry out his duties of reconciling opponents from his home in Al-Ras area in Deira. After his death, the judiciary was assumed by Mohammed Bin Abdulsalam Al Maghribi, a sheikh who arrived in Dubai from the Arab Maghreb. Thus, judges successively continued to adjudicate from their homes until conditions changed, so Al-Ahmadiya School became their judiciary premises up until 1938, when the Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Saeed Bin Maktoum Al Maktoum assigned his brother, Sheikh Hashr Bin Maktoum Al Maktoum to adjudicate disputes between people. He managed his duties from a shop in Al-Arsa market in Deira. Thus, people would first go to him for reconciliation and settlement of their complaints, but whenever he could not settle their disputes, he would refer them to judges. This practice continued until Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hasher Bin Maktoum Al Maktoum was appointed as Judicial Superintendent in 1956, and it was a sign of a new phase in judiciary as a new house had been hired for judicial practice in Al-Ras area. In 1958, Naif fort had been assigned as Judicial department of Dubai until the end of 1979.

The book lists the most important figures in tribal judiciary in the Emirates during the British presence, and it gives a glimpse on the jurisdiction of the British courts in the Trucial States.

The book outlines the basis and principles of lore laws, lore judges, types of judiciary, court headquarters, judicial procedures and the settlement of disputes. It defines litigation procedures by appearing before the judge and the judicial evidence, which comprises of confession, which is the best piece of evidence, then testimony, oath, tracing. It also mentions the judicial procedures which includes the sources of governance and judiciary, and sources of lore in the traditional society of the Emirates.

The book reviews some of the public cases and dispute settlement, which include the distribution of Aflaj water and farm borders, camels and sheep, and blood lawsuits and cases related to pearl-diving.

Regarding the judiciary in the United Arab Emirates, the book points out that Islamic law is the main source of legislation in the UAE. According to the Federal Constitution, the judicial system is made up of the Supreme Court and Courts of First Instance. It refers to the methods of judicial selection and conditions of appointment as well as the public prosecution department, its role and conditions of appointment. Furthermore, it discusses the conditions of law-practice and the duties of lawyers, besides experts, clerks, bailiffs and translators.

The book refers to Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, which was established in 1974, and to the Court of Cassation, the Court of Appeal and the Courts of First Instance. Besides, it deals with the prosecution, namely Public Prosecution, Cassation Prosecution, Appeal Prosecution, Major Prosecutions. It also elucidates the state of the judiciary in the UAE.

The book sheds lights on the Ministry of Justice during the reign of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan (1971-2004) and shows that he was a great advocate of justice. He was known for standing by rights and implementing justice for the poor and the vulnerable. The best example for that was the irrigation case when some rich people attempted to abuse the poor people exploiting their money to control the ownership of water.

The book indicates that the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Awqaf (Endowments) of the UAE adopts Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s saying: “Our goal in life is to achieve justice, be morally right and support the weak against the strong” as a slogan from which it will never deviate, Allah willing.

The book: The Historical Development of the Judiciary in the UAE Between The Tribal Lores and Secular Systems

Publisher: National Archives, Abu Dhabi, 2018, 1st Edition, 428 pages of large size.

Author: Dr. Rashid Mohammed Obaid Rushoud

Ancient, Modern, Specialized Cultural Encyclopedias … Rich in Accurate and Reliable Information

The National Archives Enriches the Emirates Library with a Number of the Major Comprehensive and Specialized Encyclopedias

The Emirates Library of the National Archives provides its visitors with a number of resources and important comprehensive and specialized encyclopedias rich in information, namely Zayed Encyclopedia, the recently published Encyclopedia Palestinica, The Pearl of the Palace and the Journal of the Epoch (Khareedat Al Qasr wa Jareedat Al Asr) and The Global Arabic Encyclopedia etch.

The Emirates Library has keen interest in the comprehensive and specialized encyclopedias because they provide researchers with documented facts and information written by specialists and experts and as they save time and give researchers easy access to correct and sufficient answers through their indexes.

Zayed Encyclopedia contains a lot of information about the UAE, which, since its inception, has seen long-term transformations in a record short time until it has become a civilized monument thanks to the efforts of the Founding Leader Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Encyclopedia Palestinica is the most important academic work, in terms of research and history, about Palestine in 100 years. It was compiled by Dr. Mohammed Hashim Ghosheh over more than twelve years. He proved Palestine’s Arabism by documents. The encyclopedia has a variety of resources and references and it monitors the daily life in alleys, markets, houses, factories, farms and other aspects of life in Palestine.

The encyclopedia has (24) volumes in 7000 pages. It contains thousands of documents, photographs, maps, illustrations and samples of stamps used in signing agreements and contracts in addition to the primary archival materials published for the first time.

It also presents about 3000 ottoman documents of Palestinian families and 1200 title deeds of other families, which prove that it was the Palestinians who owned the land. Eight volumes of the encyclopedia contain 12000 drawings of European historians who visited Palestine.

The Global Arabic Encyclopedia has 30 volumes. It is an educational and cultural encyclopedia that is organized in Arabic alphabetical order and supported with colored illustrations, charts and maps.

The Emirates Library has also the encyclopedia of Yemen’s Notables and Authors (A’alam Al Yemen wa Mu’alifeh) compiled by the Yemeni researcher and writer Abdul Wali Al Shemiri. It presents around 20000 old and cotemporary Yemeni notables including politicians, rulers, leaders, scholars, writers and distinguished people in different fields. It took around 15 years to be written. It was issued as an electronic version and as a trial paper version, which comes in 15 volumes.

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Through oral history interviews

The National Archives documents the Eid customs and rituals in the past

The National Archives has documented the rituals and customs of the Eid in the UAE in the past as part of the mission of its Oral History Section, where researchers and specialists conduct interviews with the elderly, whose memory is a rich historical reference and database filled with historical events. Oral history interviews document accounts that complement the diverse historical documents that enrich the memory of the nation with the achievements of our ancestors, as well as with the customs and traditions of the people of the Emirates, and preserve for future generations, to enhance cultural development and promote national identity.

The Eid rituals and customs deserve this attention from the National Archives of the UAE, since Eid is one of the most important religious and social events that bring joy and happiness to peoples. In the UAE, Eid always had rich elaborate rituals, traditions and customs, being a celebrated joyous occasion that strengthens social ties and cohesion.

Crescent detection:

“The elderly were the ones who designate the beginning of Ramadan and Eid, so if one living outside urban areas saw the crescent, he would immediately start firing his Tifaq (rifle) in the air”, said Saif Issa Al Mansouri from Abu Dhabi. “Thus we know that they detected the crescent, and fasting begins. And the same applied for the Eid”.

Whereas Sghaira Shnain Al Falahi added: “In the past, the wealthy people used to cook rice and meat for Eid, while some other houses served Khabis, Balalit, Thareed and ‘Irsiyya, as Eid hospitality food items”.

Eid clothes and jewelry:

About the traditional dress, an elderly female narrator says: “There were no tailors; we used to manually sew the clothes with our own hands in the light of the Fanar (lantern) at night. We used to start the sewing process about one month before Eid so the dress could be ready on Eid day. The same dress would be used in the future during Eid and wedding celebrations. Each woman would prepare only one dress for Eid, and we used to wash our clothes manually. Women would dye their hands and feet with Henna before Eid and wear their gold necklaces, bracelets, and Kuwashi on the day of Eid”.

Eidiya and Eid food festivities:

“We used to be very happy on the occasion of Eid”, says Sheikha Obeid Al Dhahiri from Al Ain. “We used to look for Eidiya (Eid gift, usually money), visiting houses of the neighborhood, upon which we were given a rupee or half a rupee as Eidiya, and it was worth it for us. We used to go to the Souq (market) to purchase Crush and Fanta (carbonated soft-drinks) and red bubble-gum balls”.

During Sheikh Zayed’s reign:

Ali Rashid Mohammed Al Neyadi from Al Ain says: “During the reign of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Al Ayyala concerts (traditional dance) were held in Al Muraba’a (the square, at the center of the city of Al Ain)”. This account is confirmed by the narrator Muhibba Hamad Rashid Al Dhahiri from Al Ain, who says: “We used to enjoy watching Al Ayyala, which was performed with poetry and songs accompanied by Tubool and Dufoof (drum) beats”.

She added: “We used to collect money from women and give it all to a father of one of the girls to make Dirfana (a swing)”. Rafee’a Mohammed Al Khmairi from Abu Dhabi says: “After the Eid prayer, we roamed among the neighbors’ houses to get Eidiya, one or two Anna coins, (small currency unit formerly used in India and Pakistan, equal to 1⁄16 of a rupee). Sometimes the Eidiya came in the form of sweets also. Then we would go back to our houses. The families used to visit each other during Eid. I used to love playing on the swing. We used to play the whole day from early morning until sunset.  We used to play on this swing throughout the three days of Eid”.

Mubarak Mohammed Bin Jarash Al Khaili from Al Ain says: “On the morning of the Eid day, each one would dress his children in their best clothes. Men gather and look for a high place, where one of the neighbors who memorized the Koran would lead them for Eid prayer in the early morning. Women would pray behind men. After prayer, people would congratulate each other and return to their respective homes carrying Fualat Al Eid (a light meal offered to guests). During Eid, some people might have meat, while others prepare Harees, Aseed, or other types of food. Neighbors, even distant ones, always called on each other on Eid days”.

This is confirmed by Fatima Obaid Ali Musalam, who says: “People enjoyed cordial friendly relations, as they ate together during Eid celebrations”. About his memories and recollection of Eid celebrations, Salem Saeed Khalfan Bin Hudairem Al Kutbi from Al Ain says: “During Eid, camel races were held where the prizes came in the form of a Wezar (loin-cloth), or Ghotra (head-covering cloth). The race used to take place after the Eid prayer and the winning camel used to be saffron- painted. There was no specific route dedicated for the race, only a vast uneven sandy road”.

In the book entitled, (Their Memory Our History), issued by the National Archives, Ahmed Nasser Bin Lootah from Dubai says, as he remembers Eid celebrations: “During our celebrations of social events, I remember that women would challenge each other when cooking Harees, which is a common traditional and popular dish in Ramadan. During Eid, we used to make Al Mraihana (swing) by tying strong ropes between two strong palm trees. During Eid prayer, women would stand behind men, and then gather to talk together, while the girls played on Al Mraihana, and share laughs in expression of their happiness and joy on the occasion of Eid”.

The narrator went on saying: “I remember that there was an old Souq (market) called “Khallas Khallas” where we used to go to play and buy sweets and Gubbait (sweet). I remember one kind of sweets made from melted sugar mixed with flour, and it was sold for one or two paise coins (a unit of currency equaling1⁄100 of the Indian rupee). This Souq was held during Eid only, and once it ends, everyone goes back to his town”.

In coordination with the Majalis Affairs Office of the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince’s Court

The National Archives provides the majalis with its documented national and historical publications

The National Archives of the UAE has provided a large number of its publications as gifts to the new majalis in Abu Dhabi, that are administered by the Majalis Affairs Office of the Crown Prince Court. The objectives of both the Majalis Affairs Office and the National Archives converge on this initiative as both parties seek to acquaint the Majalis visitors with the documented history and heritage of the UAE as well as with the foundation for its development and for its realization of the highest ranks of progress and advancement in a record time. These publications are important in enhancing cultural awareness, instilling UAE heritage among generations, fostering the values of belonging to homeland and loyalty to its wise leadership and reinforcing the principles of tolerance and peace following the footsteps of the Founder Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his vision along with that of the wise leadership.

The National Archives and the Majalis Affairs Office of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Court both seek to provide national education to the public through the NA publications that document the various aspects of the UAE life in the past namely: the economic, political, cultural, urban and environmental development, and to reflect a true and documented image of the history and heritage of the UAE and Gulf region and of the founding leader Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the great leaders of the UAE in line with the National Archives’ mission aiming to provide documented and trusted information

The National Archives has provided the majalis with thirty publications, most of which tackle aspects of the biography of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and document his achievements, national values, parental leadership approach, the efforts he exerted towards founding and establishing the UAE and its blessed Union in addition to his great role in laying the foundation for establishing justice, tolerance, equality, solidarity and other values that are deep rooted in the UAE society’s culture.

The publications also tackle aspects of H.H. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed, President of the UAE’s biography, and the chronicles of a number of Their Highnesses the sheikhs of the UAE as well as its great leaders.

The collection also includes the latest publications of the National Archives, namely ” Zayed.. Awards and Decorations”, the “Historical Development of the Judiciary system” and editions of “Liwa Journal” concerned with authentic academic research in Arabic and English languages and topics related to the history, heritage and archaeological finds of the UAE and the Arabian Gulf region.

The Arabian Gulf Digital Archive.. With a click of a button, you get access to thousands of documents that document two centuries of the region’s history

The National Archives Launches A Specialized Digital Portal on The History of The UAE and The Gulf Region

The National Archives of the United Arab Emirates has given access through the recently launched Arabian Gulf Digital Archive’s portal to thousands of historical documents and photographs as well as “multimedia” i.e. audiovisual records on the UAE and the GCC countries of great historic and cultural value. Through this AGDA portal the National Archives presents the rich and interesting history of the GCC countries over the last two centuries. The site documents many historical events and provides information about many prominent figures through its repository of documents many of which are presented for the first time on the internet.

With a click of a button, the (AGDA) Arabian Gulf Digital Archive portal provides its visitors with notes, memos, manuscripts, photographs and official correspondence exchanged between leaders and governments concerning historical events in both Arabic and English. The original documents are mostly from archives outside the Gulf region, thus the National Archives provides access to electronic copies of these historic documents and records, in addition to providing search tools and the possibility of obtaining copies of them. Therefore, this Arabian Gulf digital archive is considered a unique and contemporary source of great help to local and international researchers, academics, students and those interested in the history of the Arabian Gulf region totally free of charge.

It is noteworthy that this site, which can be accessed through the following link: https://www.agda.ae is extensive; as it provides various options – on its homepage- to guide its visitors on the course and field of research in order to enable them to reach the required documented information. The available options on the homepage are: places, personalities, entities, subjects and date range.

The ‘Places’ icon presents the various states and countries of the world, which have relations with the Arabian Gulf states. In addition to these states, visitors of the site can also find documents and photographs of cities of the Arabian Gulf that witnessed historical events. The ‘Personalities’ icon provides information about personalities who had an impact on the course of events and main affairs in the Gulf region. The ‘Entities’ icon deals with entities, organizations, major corporations, local, Arab and international institutions in connection with the Gulf region. The ‘Subjects’ icon covers education, health, as well as economic, military, border, trade, tribes, climate, religious affairs among other subjects. The ‘Date Range’ icon helps the browser to choose a particular date range to know its important historical events.

The AGDA site visitor can benefit from the following links: the “Download”, which allows him/her to directly download a document in a higher quality with all information relating to it in one page, and “Share” it with whom he/she wishes through e-mail, Facebook or Twitter.

Thus, the (Arabian Gulf Digital Archive) website is an important source of unique documented information in line with developing and promoting proper awareness of history.