The National Library and Archives Welcomes Visitors to its Platform at Sheikh Zayed Festival 2025
“Memory of the Nation” Takes Visitors on a Journey from the Desert to Space

The National Library and Archives has dedicated a special corner at its platform in Sheikh Zayed Festival 2025, to highlighting the UAE’s interest in space. The corner’s slogan is: “From the Desert to Space”. It showcases the UAE’s focus on space, which has now become a vital aspect of life of all nations. In 2014, the UAE officially embaked on its journey into outer space exploration.
The corner is a testament to the UAE’s remarkable achievements, which serve the nation’s best interest. In 1976, the late founder and builder, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, received a delegation from the United States’ Space Agency (NASA), where he commended the humanity’s greatest accomplishment of landing on the moon’s surface.
The corner, “From the Desert to Space”, documents the role and plans of the wise leadership and its plan for space exploration, highlighting the development of “KhalifaSat”, marking the first entirely Arab-manufactured satellite and ushering the Arab region into a new era of competition in space sciences and exploration. This was followed by the launch of the “Hope Probe” for space exploration, marking a historic milestone for the UAE with Emirati astronaut Hazza AlMansoori’s journey to the International Space Station, along with Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi’s six-month mission, which featured pioneering scientific experiments.
One of the most prominent displays presented on the large screens at the three facades of the hall is the description of Sheikh Zayed as being born in the heart of the desert, yet his vision shaped the UAE’s future. He saw beyond the horizon and dreamt of a united nation. The achievements he accomplished were never the result of force, but of wisdom and determination. Through his unwavering support, Sheikh Zayed laid the foundations for a modern nation, believing that the past is the cornerstone of a prosperous future.
The Hall, surrounded by screens, showcases aspects of the desert life and its profound impact on the character of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan the founder and builder, as well as the people of the UAE. It highlights his journey from the desert to establish the UAE, which has earned a prestigious position on the global map.
The corner, “From the Desert to Space”, documents the efforts of the visionary leadership that followed suit Sheikh Zayed’s path, continuing his successful journey, until the UAE reached space and secured its place in the global race for outer space exploration.
Additionally, the National Library and Archives provides a lecture within its educational package for students covering the same content, titled: “Zayed’s Ambition Embraces Space”.

During its cultural Season, the National Library and Archives sheds light on artificial intelligence and its applications in the realm of digital archiving and the modern media industry.
Recently, the National Library and Archives hosted a seminar titled “Digital Media and Artificial Intelligence: Archiving the Present and Shaping the Future”, which was the concluding event of its Cultural Season 2024. It focused on technological advancement as a crucial factor in fostering creativity and innovation within media and archiving. Additionally, it highlighted the vital role of AI in shaping the future of digital media, and the importance of media in recording, archiving, and ensuring the accessibility and preservation of past and present events for future generations. The seminar also examined advantages and disadvantages of AI in media archiving.

The seminar, presented by media pioneer Abdul Latif Al-Sayegh, emphasized the necessity for collaborative efforts between archives and digital media to effectively present, safeguard, and archive documented historical information. The speaker cautioned against allowing major corporations like Google and Meta, with their advanced technologies, to monopolize and control archives. He also urged attendees not to overly rely on the archival data these entities provide, despite their significant financial backing and influence.
The speaker pointed out that AI has begun to grasp human trends and needs, explaining that what appears on electronic search platforms is not by chance. He noted the crucial documentation done by large companies, such as Google Earth Legacy cameras, preserving cultural heritage and offering data which tracks global changes. He also mentioned Google Trends, which reveals public interests, and the remarkable services provided by “Chat GPT” that have become essential references for researchers across various disciplines.

The seminar reflected on the state of archives in the past, the tools once utilized, and the methods for regulating access to necessary documents, contrasting them with the current landscape where archives are readily accessible on media platforms. It addressed the most significant changes that have occurred, supported by examples from the collections of the British Library, the U.S. Library of Congress, and the BBC. It also spotlighted Google (knowledge archive), Meta (social life archive), and Twitter or (X) platform (real-time historical moments).
The seminar highlighted the vast potentials of large corporations that have not only developed communication platforms but have also created digital archives that aid in comprehending both the present and the future. These archives document life as it unfolds, analyse societal behaviours, and impact the evolution of human knowledge.
Furthermore, the symposium examined the effects of artificial intelligence on the creation of digital archives and the organization and categorization of extensive collections. It discussed the interdependent relationships between documenting current events and the global archives that documented history. This led to making everything available on major platforms including those interested in highlighting world cultural heritage.
The importance of government involvement in funding the digitization of archives was emphasized, alongside the encouragement of public participation, a focus on data protection, the documentation of cultural and national heritage, and the support of scientific research and knowledge advancement. The seminar also underscored future prospects for the relationship between digital media and the emerging archiving centres. It shed light on the development of robust national archiving platforms, the advantages of artificial intelligence tools and the benefits that AI offers in media archiving, such as restoring old audio recordings, enhancing images and videos, and recognizing ancient texts, as well as reviving historical figures.
Conversely, the seminar pointed out the drawbacks of utilizing artificial intelligence in media archiving, including the creation of fake videos, the alteration of historical images, misleading audio modifications, disinformation in research, and the fabrication of false historical events. In this respect, the national archives are held accountable for exposing such distortions and misinformation due to their detrimental effects.

At the Sheikh Zayed Festival,

The National Library and Archives Showcases the UAE’s Commitment to Sustainability and Educates Visitors at the Memory of the Nation Pavilion About its Significance

The National Library and Archives (NLA) attached great importance to sustainability at the Memory of the Nation pavilion at the Sheikh Zayed Festival 2024-2025. This was highlighted through historical photographs that affirm the leadership’s commitment to sustainability, in both rhetoric and action. The historical photographs and film materials at the pavilion depict the late founder and builder Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s care for environmental issues and the promotion of the sustainable development.

At the Memory of the Nation pavilion, the Sustainability Corner documents Sheikh Zayed’s interest in water resources as well as his agricultural brilliance, exemplified by the Saadiyat Island project and its yield. The corner also showcased his inspection of reclaimed agricultural areas and prospective reclamation projects in Al Ain and Al Dhafrah, in addition to his commitment to the maintenance of the Aflaj system, and the environment in the Emirates islands.

The Sustainability Corner features a section dedicated to a natural soil model, characterized by lush greenery adorned with some trees and plants.

Following the approach of the late founder and builder Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the wise leadership has embraced the duty of reinforcing sustainability, which has gradually evolved into an authentic element of the country’s cultural heritage. The leadership is committed to safeguarding this sustainability legacy and passing it on to future generations. In alignment with this effort, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, declared 2023 as the “Year of Sustainability” to highlight the country’s rich heritage in this field, and the initiative was further extended into 2024.

The NLA has curated a photo collection from the photo archives and the Presidential Archives section, alongside short film materials displayed on a huge screen at the Sustainability Corner. This setting highlights highlights the UAE’s commitment to implementing its environmental protection strategy, inspired by the late founder and builder Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s vision of sustainability. The photos also document the wise leadership’s care for the environment and its resources.

The Memory of the Nation pavilion emphasized that the UAE’s goal of creating a sustainable vision for future generations. It works to develop smart cities and innovate environmentally friendly solutions, implementing numerous policies and practices to enhance sustainable development.

The content of the platform demonstrates the age-old embraced sustainability in the UAE, as our forefathers successfully adapted to their surroundings and preserved natural resources. Historical photos and film materials, which document the continuous focus on sustainability, jointly achieve the platform’s goal of enhancing its audience’s knowledge and environmental awareness and promoting ways to preserve the environment.

Through Historical Photographs Showcasing Landmarks and Highlighting the Founder and Builder’s Commitment to its Environment

The National Library and Archives Celebrates Al Dhafra Region at Sheikh Zayed Festival
The National Library and Archives celebrated Al Dhafra Region at its “Memory of the Nation” platform during its participation in Sheikh Zayed Festival 2024-2025. The National Library and Archives showcased photographs documenting the region’s most prominent heritage and historical landmarks, highlighting the care and attention it received from the Founder and Builder, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and how his vision of development transformed Al Dhafra into a civilizational oasis where heritage and modernity intertwine.
The renaissance of Al Dhafra Region becomes clear when comparing its present with its past. At its platform, the NLA documented aspects of the region’s history and importance, and in previous events highlighted Al Dhafra’s development journey made possible through the continued attention and support of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. His Highness’s directives have advanced the region’s growth and prosperity while reinforcing its heritage and sustainability, thus continuing the path set by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
The National Library and Archives’s platform showcased historical photographs capturing aspects of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s inspection tours of citizens’ farms in Liwa during the 1970s and 1980s, where he observed the produce of fruits and vegetables. These images reflect the Founder and Builder’s early attention to the environment and its sustainability across the UAE. His care, was not limited to places, but centered above all on people, out of his belief that it is man’s will that shapes civilization and drives progress and prosperity. By staying close to his people, he instilled in them the values of love and loyalty. He was always keen to remain well informed about citizens’ concerns, engaging in direct communication and consultation with them without barriers. During his field tours, he consistently followed up on urban and developmental projects across the nation.
The platform also presented historical photographs for its visitors, documenting Sheikh Zayed’s visits and inspection tours of citizens’ farms and their produce in Al Mariyah, Muzeira’a, and other areas across Al Dhafra Region.
Moreover, the National Library and Archives’s platform presented a historical photograph of the massive old circular tower of Al Mariyah located in Al Mariyah Al Sharqiya (Eastern), along with a photograph of Qutuf Fort in Qutuf village, both are situated in Liwa.
The platform also displays historical social photographs that illustrate lifestyles and transportation methods in the Liwa region, as well as people’s interest in palm trees, palm oases, and old houses in the 1960s and 1970s. The photographs are arranged in a series to document the progress made in citizens’ housing in Liwa.
The National Library and Archives’ interest in Al Dhafra Region is not confined to Sheikh Zayed Festival but also extends to its participation in the various heritage events held in the region. These include Liwa Date Festival, where it showcases the services it provides to preserve the memory of the nation and collects oral history through interviews with senior citizens, Al Dhafra Book Festival, where it inclodes its publications containing accurate and well-documented historical information about the region. Among the most prominent of these publications are: Al Dhafra Fort; Al Dhafra Region in the Note of the United Kingdom Government’s Political Agent in 1955; Historical Water Resources in Al Dhafra Region; Dictionary of Places in the Poetry of the People of Al Dhafra; and Forts and Towers in Al Dhafra, among others.
In addition, the National Library and Archives has previously organized numerous events dedicated to Al Dhafra Region, and inaugurated at the new “Western Hotel Liwa” in Al Dhafra a permanent exhibition of historical photographs that document memorable moments in the UAE’s collective memory, along with a library housing many of its publications that highlight various aspects of the history of the United Arab Emirates in general, and the history of Al Dhafra Region in particular.

Sustainability and Outstanding Experiences are the Two Main Pillars of the Conference.

The National Library and Archives Affirms the Importance of the Recommendations of the 30^th Edition of the Conference of Directors of National Libraries in Asia and Oceania, and Their Impact on Advancing Libraries

The National Library and Archives (NLA) emphasized the importance of the recommendations resulting from the 30^th Edition of the Conference of Directors of National Libraries in Asia and Oceania (CDNLAO), held under the theme “Libraries and Sustainability”, and the NLA being hosted at the Mohammed bin Rashid Library in conjugation with the activities of the first session of Dubai International Library Conference 2024.

The significance of the conference recommendations—presented during its sessions from November 15 to 17, 2024—stemmed from the wealth of expertise, library skills, and distinguished experiences shared in its specialized discussions, at a time when the National Library and Archives continues its efforts to advance the national library into a cultural and civilizational beacon, further enriching the achievements of the United Arab Emirates.

The recommendations derived their importance from the conference’s focus on modern technologies introduced into libraries, which have enhanced their status and developed them in both form and content, transforming them from their traditional model into social hubs for visitors of all ages and cultural backgrounds. This, in turn, has strengthened their role in enriching knowledge communities and made them the preferred destination for seekers of culture and knowledge.

It is worth noting that the conference recommendations resulted from sessions that discussed the sustainability efforts and initiatives of national libraries from Asia and Oceania, along with their societal contributions that reinforced the concept of sustainability. Accordingly, the conference emphasized the importance of sustainability in libraries, placing it among the top priorities of the participating national libraries. Sustainability practices extended to upgrading infrastructure, optimizing resource utilization, and adopting green building standards, with participants contributing to the development of a sustainability strategy for libraries.

Within the same framework, national libraries have adopted sustainable development practices and assumed the responsibility of advancing library development in developing countries. They have also prioritized fostering cooperation and establishing agreements between libraries and various institutions dedicated to collecting and preserving cultural memory.

In this regard, and based on the discussions held during the conference, national libraries have enhanced the use of smart technologies to support future library services in innovative ways, in line with the future direction of artificial intelligence (AI) in information management.

The conference focused on three main themes: supporting sustainability goals, green libraries and sustainability, and raising community awareness of sustainability. Its sessions served as an open platform for exchanging expertise, knowledge, and specialized experiences in library affairs, resulting in significant and constructive outcomes in terms of development and sustainability. They also promoted the concept of the green library, designed to reduce negative impacts on the natural environment through the use of clean technology, eco-friendly energy, and sound management—especially as countries around the world compete in green library projects.

It is noteworthy that the Conference of Directors of National Libraries in Asia and Oceania began in 1979, when Australia hosted the first meeting in Canberra, while the UAE hosted it for the first time in its 30^th edition.

Enriched with pioneering ideas and innovative initiatives
The Youth of the National Library and Archives organized a Special Retreat to Discuss Their Plans for the Coming Year

The Youth Council of the National Library and Archives held a retreat to discuss its 2025 work plan, aligned with the objectives of the Federal Youth Authority. During the retreat, participants exchanged ideas that would contribute to achieving the national goals of the National Library and Archives, anticipating the future, and addressing challenges.
The retreat was rich with proposed initiatives and projects focused on youth programs. Its agenda included several themes related to the Council’s work plan, proposed projects, initiatives, and events for 2025. The youth’s strong interest in artificial intelligence and its applications was evident throughout the discussions, along with their commitment to achieving sustainable development, providing practical solutions, and generating innovative ideas. The retreat also included discussions on the Council’s budget for the coming year.
In this regard, Mr. Mohammad Al Bishir, Chairman of the National Library and Archives Youth Council, emphasized the importance of enhancing youth skills and strengthening their communication with decision-makers, in order to support and empower them to face future challenges, encourage them to develop their ideas, and launch their pioneering and innovative projects.
The Council expressed its deep gratitude to His Excellency Abdulla Majid Al Ali, Director General of the National Library and Archives, for his continuous support of the Council’s creative initiatives, which enrich the national agenda with fresh contributions. They stressed that youth are the new driving force invigorating the institution’s journey, the fundamental pillar in building the future, and a guarantee for progress.

The National Library and Archives Presents Its Distinguished Experience in Collecting, Preserving, and Documenting Oral History at the Conference of the American Oral History Association

The National Library and Archives participated in the Annual conference of the American Oral History Association with a paper titled: “Oral History: Redefining and Documenting the Past: The Experience of the UAE as a Model”. This participation highlights the significance of the UAE’s successful and distinguished efforts in documenting historical events that were not preserved in written records.
As a permanent member of this esteemed association, the National Library and Archives remains committed to participating annually in these meetings. This engagement sheds light on the unique characteristics of UAE society and its rich heritage, drawing the attention of researchers and academics to explore the nation’s achievements and encouraging further study of the UAE development and progress.
At the conference, held in Cincinnati, Ohio, Dr. Aisha Bilkhair, Research Consultant at the National Library and Archives, presented a scholarly paper reviewing the methodology employed in documenting oral history in the UAE and the practices utilized during the collection process. She emphasized the significance of considering the distinctive attributes of UAE society in oral history collection, which differ from practices elsewhere in the world. In the UAE, human relationships are deeply intertwined with cultural and social heritage, prompting narrators to recount these traditions with meticulous detail, accuracy, and authenticity.
Dr. Bilkhair’s paper highlighted the critical role of oral history as a fundamental pillar for understanding the evolution of society and its culture over time. Through oral history, the stories and memories of senior individuals who witnessed the nation’s development are documented, offering future generations valuable insights and lessons to help shape a bright future for both individuals and the nation.
Dr. Bilkhair also emphasized the importance of the connection between UAE society—both citizens and resident expatriates to the nation’s authentic cultural heritage. This heritage encompasses values, customs, and principles that sustain the national identity. She explained how this connection fosters a distinctive identity for the people of the UAE and creates a clear influence on expatriates, who view the UAE as a source of inspiration and an extension of civilization and culture, deserving of preservation with pride and honor.
Additionally, Madya Al-Mehairbi, a researcher in oral history at the National Library and Archives, presented a poster titled: “A Bridge between the Past, Present, and Future: The National Library and Archives as a Model.” In her presentation, she provided an overview of the oral history initiatives undertaken by the National Library and Archives and emphasized the importance of preserving oral history as a cornerstone of the UAE’s national and cultural identity.
Al-Mehairbi highlighted the role of the National Library and Archives in collecting and documenting oral narratives, positioning them as vital sources of knowledge for future generations. She also elaborated on the significance of oral history in safeguarding traditional knowledge and experiences, enriching the collective understanding of UAE identity and its inherent values.
It is noteworthy that a significant number of conference attendees visited the exhibition, praised the poster, and commended the National Library and Archives for its dedicated efforts in collecting and preserving oral history. They also lauded its pivotal role in promoting Emirati culture both locally and internationally.
The National Library and Archives has published three volumes of the “Their Memory, Our History” series, drawing on interviews conducted with senior UAE citizens. These volumes document their memories, ensuring their preservation for future generations and serving as valuable references for understanding the nation’s heritage.

The National Library and Archives Enriches Formula 1 Halls with a Collection of Historical Photographs

The National Library and Archives participated in the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix by displaying a collection of historical photographs in Abu Dhabi’s halls 2024. This participation reflects its commitment to enriching this global sporting event with significant historical images relevant to the Grand Prix.
The photographs displayed by the National Library and Archives at this major sporting event highlight moments of the UAE’s founder and builder, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan – may he rest in peace – personally driving his car. He was well known for this practice, especially during his inspections of construction projects and citizens’ living conditions when he served as the Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain and later as the Ruler of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Some of the photographs display the progress and prosperity achieved by the United Arab Emirates under his visionary leadership and through the efforts of the great leaders who carried forward his legacy of building, development, and growth.
Each photograph displayed in the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix halls carries its own historical significance, marking key stages of the UAE’s journey and evolution. The diversity of cars featured in these images, carefully preserved in the archives reflect their connection to the nation’s illustrious history and the remarkable leaders who shaped it.
The participation of the National Library and Archives in this sporting event underscores the importance of Formula 1 as the pinnacle of motorsport, which has made Abu Dhabi an international destination for motorsport enthusiasts.
With thousands of historical photographs in its collections, including the Presidential Archives, the National Library and Archives remained equipped to present the UAE rich historical narrative on various occasions. For this prestigious event, it selected a curated set of photographs that add historical depth and cultural significance to the Formula 1 experience.

Engaging representatives from over 16 government entities and generating more than 20 projects,
The National Library and Archives organizes a workshop on its role in the cultural system and identifies the most significant and notable collaborative national initiatives.

The National Library and Archives (NLA) hosted a workshop on its role in the cultural system in the UAE. Strategic partners, whose cultural contributions align with the NLA’s goals for developing joint cultural projects, were in attendance.
His Excellency Abdullah Majed Al Ali, the Director General of the National Library and Archives, opened the event with a speech emphasizing that the workshop aims to strengthen communication and collaboration for innovative future cultural initiatives that benefit the nation. He noted that combining efforts pave the path toward a more promising future, yielding valuable outcomes that reflect the national contribution.
Addressing the workshop attendees, His Excellency remarked, “The NLA, in its unwavering commitment to leadership and excellence across all its tasks, recognizes the importance of collaborating with your esteemed institutions, which are celebrated for their exceptional reputation and significant contributions. Currently, the NLA is no longer merely a repository for historical documents and records; it has evolved into a creator and publisher of cultural content focused on the history and heritage of the United Arab Emirates and the Gulf region.”
His Excellency highlighted that following the integration of the National Library under the National Archives, the collection, preservation, and accessibility of documentary heritage and cultural assets have elevated the creative and excellence landscape. He added that the NLA is keen to sustain the march of progress and development that aligns with the United Arab Emirates’ march, confidently guided by its wise leadership to stand out among the nations of the world.
The Director General of the National Library and Archives emphasized the necessity of collective and cohesive efforts to enhance the public perception and institutional reputation of the NLA. He added that the NLA is committed to embracing modern technologies, particularly artificial intelligence applications, to collect, preserve, and provide access to the memory of the nation, thereby enriching the cultural landscape and fulfilling its mission to enrich and empower knowledge societies.
His Excellency said, “At the same time, we aim to share the inspiring and distinctive experiences, as we hope for your institutions to attain success, just as we wish for the NLA. Every significant accomplishment brings pride and joy to all those involved”.
He concluded his address by expressing his expectation for a future that is enriched through cultural diplomacy, propelled by a knowledge-based economy, and strengthened by sincere and responsible partnerships. He stated, “The NLA recognizes that this strengthens our national identity and cultural heritage, while also offering innovative solutions to address challenges. This approach ultimately enhances the benefits of its initiatives and highlights the results of our contributions as we work towards fulfilling our mission for our nation and its community members”.
Next, Mrs. Samar Al-Mashjari, Head of the Strategic Planning Office, presented the NLA Strategy, discussed the significance of the workshop, shed light on its goals and anticipated outcomes, and outlined the details of its activities.
Finally, Dr. Husniya Al-Ali, Education Advisor, unveiled the NLA’s cultural and educational initiatives, which align with the new strategy, broaden the range of beneficiaries, and strengthen collaboration. She shed light on the cultural programs aimed at the educational sector that benefit both teachers and students across various academic levels. These are included in the “For a Promising Generation” initiative, and encompass lectures, workshops, volunteer programs, talent development initiatives, and curriculum enhancement programs.
The workshop, organized by the National Library and Archives at the Earth Hotel, focused on its role within the cultural framework. It reviewed the strategies of the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Community Development, and the Ministry of Economy, which discussed its updated intellectual property system and its key initiatives.
The brainstorming session, which included representatives from more than 16 government entities, resulted in the development of over 20 initiatives. Among these initiatives is the establishment of cultural platforms that will engage a variety of cultural stakeholders. These platforms are designed to facilitate exploration of the cultural heritage of the United Arab Emirates, highlighting its significant heritage features and providing insights into its notable cultural figures.

In cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation,
The National Library and Archives Launches the “We Celebrate Together” Initiative to Enrich the Celebrations of the 53rd UAE National Day

In conjunction with the UAE’s celebration of its 53rd National Day, the National Library and Archives launched the “We Celebrate Together” initiative to enrich the celebrations at all UAE embassies across 127 countries.
This initiative provided the UAE embassies worldwide with a specially designed box containing a curated selection of valuable photographs depicting the enduring legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the establishment of the UAE Union. The box also features a badge representing the founder Sheikh Zayed and a film that tells the story of the UAE’s Union, thus fostering the promotion of the national identity.
The initiative is implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. It emphasizes the collaborative spirit embraced by various state entities and reinforces the UAE’s mission and national values on international platforms
Through such endeavours, the NLA is committed to presenting a vibrant image of the national celebrations that seamlessly blend authenticity with modernity while also fostering a collective effort to enhance national identity and honour the spirit of the Union.
The NLA holds thousands of photographs within the photo archives and the Presidential Archives section, which enable it to illustrate the historical dimension of the country on various occasions. In this context, the NLA has curated a selection of photos for the celebrations of the 53rd National Day aiming to present to the global audience historical images that capture the contributions of the founder and builder, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, in establishing the Union, as well as the country’s renaissance and advancement. The NLA has enriched this collection with photos that emphasize the role of the visionary leadership in continuing the march making further remarkable progress and great accomplishments, taking sustainability into account while moving towards brighter and flourishing future.

In conjunction with the celebrations of the 53rd UAE Union Day,
The National Library and Archives has unveiled a new publication titled “Zayed – A Journey in Pictures”

The National Library and Archives has released a new book titled “Zayed – A Journey in Pictures, in conjunction with the 53rd UAE Union Day celebrations. This book visually chronicles the life and accomplishments of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the United Arab Emirates.
The book offers a unique photographic exploration of Sheikh Zayed’s inspiring journey, embodying a spirit of perseverance and ambition that led to the creation of a modern state known for its sustainable development vision and esteemed human values. Comprising 600 rare images, the book showcases significant events in Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s life, from his rise to power in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi to his role in establishing and leading the United Arab Emirates. The photographs are organized into eleven chapters that unfold chronologically, narrating the remarkable life and achievements of Sheikh Zayed.
Spanning over seventy years, the book outlines Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s contributions across various sectors, including urban development, education, women’s empowerment, healthcare, heritage conservation, and environmental protection, while also promoting tolerance and harmonious coexistence. It illuminates life in the UAE both prior to and following the discovery of oil, capturing the significant progress the nation has experienced and illustrating how Sheikh Zayed’s wisdom and foresight enabled him to navigate challenges in building a nation that inspires hope for the future.
His Excellency Abdulla Majed Al Ali, Director General of the National Library and Archives, remarked: “Zayed – A Journey in Pictures is more than merely a book; it serves as a dynamic historical account that captures pivotal moments in the life of our founding father. Through these photographs, we showcase Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s vision that elevated the UAE to the ranks of developed nations, embedding the principles of tolerance, coexistence, and diligence at the core of our country. We at the National Library and Archives take pride in publishing this work, as it not only documents the achievements of an inspirational leader but also acts as a source of motivation for future generations, encouraging them to embrace his noble ideals and human values, which shine brightly for all of us.”
With its exceptional photos, the book offers insights into daily life in the UAE over the past decades, establishing it as a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and those interested in the nation’s history. It provides a thorough overview of the country’s development journey and showcases the insightful vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, which solidified the UAE’s global stature and transformed aspirations into lasting achievements for generations to come.

Abdulla Majed Al Ali: The Union of Our Emirates Was the Product of the Visionary Leadership and Efforts of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid

The National Library and Archives Honors Dozens of Employees for Their Creative and Innovative Ideas

The National Library and Archives (NLA) organized an event for the employees who produced creative and innovative ideas, to honor their efforts documented by the Innovation Oasis Committee, which aims to enhance the NLA’s tasks to achieve further excellence.
The event opened with a speech by His Excellency Abdulla Majed Al Ali, Director General of the National Library and Archives, who remarked: “On December 2, 1971, fifty-three years ago, the United Arab Emirates was founded. This historic achievement was the result of visionary and innovative leadership spearheaded by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Their pioneering vision extended to include the rest of the Emirates, laying the foundation for a united and progressive nation. Since then, innovation has become a cornerstone of life in the UAE. This commitment to innovation was further reinforced when our wise leadership launched the National Innovation Strategy in 2014, and declared 2015 as the Year of Innovation, and designated February as the Innovation Month each year. The prosperity and progress we witness today are the direct results of this visionary approach. By continuing on this path, we can enrich knowledge societies and excel in shaping the future.”
His Excellency emphasized that civilizational development relies on innovation, which must be a way of life. Innovation serves as a precise roadmap guiding us toward growth, development, and advancement, enabling us to keep pace with the most modern and advanced archives in the world.
He commended the support of the wise leadership, which has placed innovation at the core of its national strategy and the heart of the UAE’s vision. It has prioritized supporting innovators and their ideas, sparing no effort to sustain innovation, ensuring that the nation’s ambitions soar to great heights and further enhance the UAE’s global competitiveness.
His Excellency added: “We reaffirm what our wise leadership has declared – that innovation is no longer an option but a necessity, with no definitive endpoint. I urge everyone to contribute in making more innovative ideas.”
Following this, Dr. Abdulla Al Shareef, Chair of the Innovation Committee at the National Library and Archives, presented indicators of ideas submitted to the Innovation Oasis in 2023-2024. The event concluded with honoring 34 employees for their creative and innovative contributions to the National Library and Archives.