The National Library and Archives Unveils Survey Insights on UAE Libraries and Their Integration of Artificial Intelligence

The National Library and Archives (NLA) unveils the findings of a survey study conducted in 2024 on the current state of libraries in the United Arab Emirates. Focusing on different types of libraries, the study assessed their current status, their impact on education and cultural development, and the range of knowledge resources, services, and activities they provide to the public.
The study also shed light on the approaches taken by libraries toward embracing AI technologies, along with the challenges they face in this field, in line with the national strategic vision for digital transformation and knowledge society building.
The virtual lecture began with a speech by Mr. Hamad Al Hamiri, Director of the Research and Knowledge Services Department at the National Library and Archives. He emphasized the importance of this study in providing fresh insights into the current state of libraries in the UAE, highlighting the transformative role of artificial intelligence in the library sector and its potential to enhance information services and improve the library work environment to benefit both professionals and library users alike.
Dr. Emad Abu Eid, an expert in libraries and social responsibility, unveiled key insights from the study, highlighting the quantitative and qualitative distribution of libraries and their staff, emerging digital trends, and the media platforms they utilize. He also reviewed the libraries’ collections, technical tools, services, and programs, while assessing their readiness to embrace AI initiatives. Additionally, Dr. Abu Eid emphasized the measurement of user satisfaction and the collection of constructive feedback to further enhance library services.
The study examined various aspects of libraries, including their buildings and facilities, collections and acquisitions, educational and cultural programs, automated systems and digital repositories, digital transformation technologies, available equipment and devices, research tools, and public communication channels.
Furthermore, the study recorded librarians’ observations on opportunities for improving library work, particularly in areas of technology and digital transformation, professional development, institutional collaboration, community services, and resource management.
The study also explored the relationship between artificial intelligence and libraries in the UAE. It assessed staff knowledge of AI technologies and applications, identified AI tools currently in use in libraries, along with the challenges faced in this area. Additionally, the study focused on the potential benefit of AI technologies and proposed practical solutions to support their implementation in libraries across the country.
Conducted for the benefit of the National Library and Archives, the study concluded by presenting a comprehensive vision of the state of public, academic, specialized, and school libraries in 2024. The vision encompassed library infrastructure and human resources, offering a new analytical dimension to the study of AI integration in this vital sector.
Finally, the study underscores the importance of its findings in guiding library development and meeting the evolving needs of the community, reaffirming libraries as essential partners in the UAE’s cultural and intellectual growth.

As a strategic step to strengthen the national information infrastructure and develop publishing activities, the National Library and Archives, in cooperation with the International Centre for the Registration of Serial Publications (ISSN IC), is launching the Emirates ISSN Centre, which will serve as the official representative and exclusive agent of the International Centre in the UAE, effective from 21 October 2025.
The UAE International Standard Serial Number Centre assigns ISSN identifiers to periodicals published in the United Arab Emirates. ISSN is the ISO standard identifier for serial publications and other continuing resources such as periodicals, magazines, newsletters, newspapers, yearbooks, and series, published in print, digital, or any other media.
The Emirates Center includes them in the national bibliography in addition to the International Standard Serial Number portal (https://portal.issn.org), thereby contributing to the dissemination of intellectual output from Emirati periodicals, making them accessible from around the world, and increasing their distribution and circulation.
On the occasion of the launch of the UAE Centre, His Excellency Dr. Abdullah Majid Al Ali, Director General of the National Library and Archives, said: “This initiative is the culmination of collaborative efforts between the ISSN International Centre and the National Library and Archives, and aims to facilitate the registration of periodicals and serial publications in accordance with international standards and promote them internationally, thereby enhancing the cultural scene and the country’s position as a centre of cultural influence  .”
His Excellency Dr. Abdullah Majid Al Ali also emphasized that this service is an important step towards preserving the nation’s memory, as it is the identity of the periodical. This special identifier (ISSN) distinguishes the periodical from other publications, which enriches knowledge societies by ensuring the global dissemination of periodicals, thereby strengthening the knowledge economy and dialogue among civilizations.
His Excellency Dr. Abdullah Majid Al Ali added: “With the activation of the online portal for the service
https://www.nla.ae/en/national-library/uae-national-issn-centre/, the National Library and Archives is fully prepared to receive requests from publishers and grant the standard identifier (ISSN) to Emirati periodicals with the aim of promoting the publishing industry.”
Dr. Gaelle Bequet, Director of the ISSN International Centre, commented: “Thanks to the high level of professionalism of the team at the National Library and Archives in Abu Dhabi and to open and constructive dialogue, our cooperation with our colleagues in the United Arab Emirates has been very satisfactory. I would like to commend the International Centre’s trainers for supporting the new centre in producing quality identification metadata and setting up the IT process to ingest the data into the global ISSN portal. I am delighted that the UAE ISSN Centre is set to open in October 2025, which will strengthen the MENA region’s position within our network.”
About the National Library and Archives The National Library and Archives was established in 1968 under the name the Documents and Research Bureau, following the directives of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, founder of the United Arab Emirates. Its mission was defined as collecting and preserving archives to enhance cultural and historical awareness. Accordingly, it houses a vast collection of historical materials documenting various aspects of life in the United Arab Emirates and the Arabian Gulf region since the 16th century. The National Library and Archives also undertakes the collection, preservation, and electronic storage of historical documents, in addition to safeguarding the nation’s cultural heritage. It is a member of numerous international institutions and plays a distinguished role as a creator of cultural content. Under Federal Law No. 13 of 2021, the National Library has become part of its umbrella.
About the ISSN International Centre Founded in Paris, France, in 1975, the ISSN International Centre is the global authority responsible for the assignment and management of International Standard Serial Numbers (ISSNs). It works with a network of National Centres to support the bibliographic control and dissemination of serial publications worldwide. The Centre manages the global
database of serial publications (https://portal.issn.org).

The National Library and Archives, and Zayed Authority for People of Determination Celebrate the International White Cane Day

The National Library and Archives, in cooperation with Zayed Authority for People of Determination, celebrated the International White Cane Day, which falls on October 15 each year, by organizing a series of events and activities dedicated to people of determination from the visually impaired community. This initiative comes within the framework of its social responsibility and its commitment to enable this group to fully integrate into society.
Her Excellency Naama Abdulrahman Al Mansoori, Director of the Blind Care Department at Zayed Authority for People of Determination, emphasized the significance of the white cane as a symbol of independence and self-reliance. She stated that celebrating this occasion reflects awareness of the importance of supporting and empowering individuals with visual impairments in all fields of life.
In her speech during the ceremony, Al Mansoori praised the cooperation of the National Library and Archives and its continued support for the Authority’s initiatives, affirming that such collaboration represents the commitment of national institutions to their responsibility towards people of determination. She pointed out that the International White Cane Day is one of the most important global occasions in which Zayed Authority is keen to participate, highlighting the services provided to the blind community.
Al Mansoori added that the positive interaction of the UAE community with the members from these groups, and their active participation in the events and programs adopted by Zayed Authority for People of Determination, is the greatest evidence of the awareness and cultural advancement in the UAE society.
Mr. Hamad Al Hammadi, Director of Research and Knowledge Services Department at the National Library and Archives, welcomed the participants, commending the determination of the visually impaired who have demonstrated that strong will can overcome challenges and contribute effectively to the nation building.
He pointed out that the white cane represents a symbol of strength and perseverance, noting that the National Library and Archives has given special attention to the visually impaired by printing a number of its national publications in Braille, such as Zayed: From Challenges to Union, and booklets including Khalifa: A Journey to the Future and Qasr Al Hosn, The National Library and Archives has also provided devices that convert printed text into Braille, in the belief that everyone has the right to access knowledge.
Al Hammadi affirmed that this celebration comes in the “Year of Community”, which embodies the National Library and Archives’ commitment to the national and humanitarian values established by the wise leadership. He praised the fruitful cooperation and coordination with Zayed Authority for People of Determination.
Omar Al Amri, one of the visually impaired community, spoke about the UAE’s legislative efforts to empower the people of determination, highlighting Federal Law No. 29 of 2006 and the National Policy for Empowering People of Determination launched in 2017, which focuses on health, social protection, family empowerment, and community participation.
Saif Al Falasi, Director of the Legal Affairs Department at Dubai Police, shared his inspiring personal journey in education and professional life, stressing that family and community support played a vital role in enabling him to achieve his ambitions and reach leadership positions.
On the sidelines of the event, an exhibition of modern devices and technologies for the blind was held at the National Library and Archives, displaying the latest innovations designed to empower the blind people and enhance their access to advanced technology. The program also included a symbolic white cane walk, artistic and poetry segments, and interactive competitions that reflected the spirit of determination and social integration.
The celebration concluded with a guided tour of Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Hall and Sheikh Suroor bin Mohammed Al Nahyan Hall, where visually impaired guests explored historical artifacts and documents that record the UAE’s union journey and highlight the nation’s achievements through various stages.
“The White Cane” is a tool used by the blind for independent movement. It is held by the handle with the arm extended so that the tip of the cane precedes the blind person’s step, in front of the stepping foot. The cane should remain in contact with the ground and not rise more than two inches above it.
Types of White Canes:
There are six main types of white canes used worldwide:
Symbolic Cane: Used by blind and partially sighted individuals, as well as the elderly, to indicate their vision impairment, though it does not meet the specifications of a standard mobility cane.
Guiding Cane: Used by the blind to identify the type of surface, curbs, and stairs, protecting only the lower part of the body. It is slightly above waist length, with tips made of nylon or aluminum.
Long Cane: The most commonly used type for independent movement. Its length reaches the lower part of the chest, varying according to the individual. It allows user to detect obstacles before collision. The tips are made of nylon and come in different shapes: pointed, spherical, or conical.
Standard Walking Cane: Used by blind, visually impaired, and sighted people alike. It is typically made of solid wood and strong enough to support leaning.
Curved-Handle Cane: Shaped like a tennis racket, this cane is suitable for uneven terrains or rocky areas and should extend slightly above the lower chest area.
Electronic Cane: A modern adaptation of the long white cane, it emits ultrasonic waves that alert the user when encountering obstacles. It can also detect objects in all directions within a range of five meters. The tip is made of lead

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.

Held in Abu Dhabi under the theme “Towards New Horizons of Knowledge in the Digital Age”

The National Library and Archives Hails the Active Participation in the Third Edition of the International Digital Archives Conference 2026
The National Library and Archives received a substantial number of research and academic papers from researchers, experts, and enthusiasts wishing to participate in the third edition of the International Digital Archives Conference, to be held in Abu Dhabi from April 21-23, 2026, under the theme “Towards New Horizons of Knowledge in the Digital Age”.
The National Library and Archives praised the remarkable interest shown by participants in the conference, an interest driven by the relevance and global importance of its themes. The conference focuses on the role of digital technologies in preparing scientific papers, and on the production and dissemination of Knowledge.
Regarding the ongoing preparation, Dr. Hamad Al Mutairi, Acting Executive Director of the National Library and Archives, affirmed that the third edition of the International Digital Archives Conference is the continuation of the success achieved by the two previous editions. The new edition is distinguished by the richness of its scientific program along with strong coordination with the relevant entities in brotherly Arab states and friendly international countries.
Further elevating the standing of the third edition of the conference is the participation of the International Council on Archives, along with numerous specialized international institutions. The conference also features a review committee composed of experts and specialist in relevant fields, ensuring the quality of papers and maximizing the benefit from the conference outcomes.
Dr. Al-Mutairi emphasized that the conference serves as an ideal platform to foster dialogue and exchange perspectives among researchers, academics, decision-makers, and postgraduate students. It offers a valuable opportunity for knowledge sharing, exploring the future of digital archiving and its role in preserving collective memory, and establishing new avenues for research collaboration.
The third edition of the International Digital Archives Conference will open with keynote addresses by distinguished speakers and experts and will explore a wide range of topics. These include Scientific Discovery in the Digital Age, Digital Humanities and Cultural Research, Education and Knowledge in the Digital Era, AI and Digital Technologies in Healthcare, Environmental Sciences and Sustainability, Multidisciplinary Scientific Research, and Scientific Communication.
It is worth noting that the deadline for full paper submissions is February 28, 2026. The National Library and Archives has published the conference schedule on the official conference website, which offers comprehensive details and information about the event and its topics.

The National Library and Archives Hosts Lecture on Documenting the History of the UAE Through Coins During the Early Islamic Period

The National Library and Archives (NLA) organized a specialized academic lecture titled “Documenting the History of the UAE through Coins in the Early Islamic Period – From the Advent of Islam to the End of the Second Abbasid Era. The lecture was delivered by Dr. Atef Mansour Mohamed, Professor of Islamic Numismatics and Archaeology, as part of the NLA’s ongoing efforts to document the history of the United Arab Emirates through tangible evidence and authentic primary sources.
The lecture highlighted the vital role of coins as official historical documents that shed light on the political and economic history of nations. It emphasized that the territory of the Emirates was an active part of the early Islamic world, enjoying a prominent economic and commercial status due to its strategic geographic location—making it a major hub along key regional and international trade routes.
Dr. Mansour presented an overview of the UAE’s geographical and administrative landscape during the early Islamic eras, underscoring the region’s historical importance and the role played by several local families who contributed to its governance and development.
He noted that the coins circulated in the Emirates in ancient times included Byzantine dinars and Sasanian dirhams, which have been uncovered in archaeological findings that attest to the area’s commercial and cultural prosperity. Additionally, dinars minted during the reign of Emperor Heraclius were also among the currencies in use.
The virtual lecture further explored coins from the Abbasid Caliphate, issued during the reigns of prominent rulers such as Abu Jaafar al-Mansur, Mohammad Al-Mahdi, Harun Al-Rashid, Mohammad Al-Amin, Abdullah Al-Maamun, and Al-Mutawakkil ‘ala Allah. It also showcased dinars and dirhams bearing the names of notable figures such as Mismar bin Salam, Ahmed bin Hilal, Abdul Halim bin Ibrahim, Yusuf bin Wajih, and Mohammad bin Yousuf bin Wajih. The rare coins that were displayed included the Samanid fals.
Images of these coins were displayed during the lecture, drawn from both local and international museum collections, as well as from the distinguished private collection of Mr. Abdullah bin Jassim Al-Mutairi.
Dr. Mansour highlighted that coins discovered at archaeological sites within the UAE—including those at Madam, Jumeirah, Al-Nudud, and Al-Hilaila Island—alongside discoveries in cities and ports on the Arabian Gulf’s opposite shore, demonstrate the region’s extensive trade networks and its pivotal role in the commercial and cultural life of the Gulf.
This lecture is part of the National Library and Archives’ commitment to shedding light on the historical and cultural dimensions of the UAE and to documenting them through scientific research based on archaeological numismatics, which enrich understanding of the past and support specialized historical studies.
The event attracted significant interest from scholars, senior museum officials, and historians of the UAE, with participants contributing valuable academic insights during the discussion.
It is also worth noting that the National Library and Archives remains dedicated to the historical study and documentation of coinage in the Emirates. In this regard, it has published a book titled “The Trade of Metal Currencies in the Emirates of the Western Coast of the Arabian Gulf (1929–1949).”

The National Library and Archives Concludes Its Participation in the 16th Salon du Cheval d’El Jadida in Morocco

The National Library and Archives (NLA) has concluded its participation in the United Arab Emirates Pavilion at the 16th edition of the Salon du Cheval d’El Jadida (Horse Exhibition), held in the city of El Jadida, Kingdom of Morocco. During the event, the NLA showcased a distinguished collection of its publications and historical and cultural treasures that document the UAE’s development and highlight the deep fraternal ties between the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Morocco.
The NLA booth attracted a large number of exhibition visitors, featuring nearly 100 publications covering topics related to history, culture, and heritage. Among the most distinguished works on display was The History of Moroccan-Emirati Relations, which serves as a documentary reference highlighting the religious, scientific, and cultural ties uniting the two nations through various historical periods. Another notable book was Zayed: A Journey in Pictures, which is a photographic tribute to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the UAE, portraying his visionary leadership and his lifelong commitment to building a nation grounded in sustainable development and noble human values.
The NLA also presented a selection of rare historical photographs capturing moments between the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the late King Hassan II, as well as images of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and His Majesty King Mohammed VI of Morocco. These visual records reaffirm the depth of the strong bilateral relations between the two brotherly nations.
In addition, the NLA booth featured photographs, documents, and documentary films that shed light on the UAE’s enduring bond with purebred Arabian horses and its active participation in equestrian festivals and races in both the UAE and Morocco—reflecting the shared cultural passion of both nations for this noble heritage.
The participation of the National Library and Archives underscores its dedication to preserving the memory of the nation. It also aims at documenting the UAE’s historical and cultural relations, and and strengthening the UAE’s presence in international heritage and cultural events—reflecting the country’s vision of safeguarding its identity and promoting shared values.

In conjunction with the International Translation Day,
The National Library and Archives Organizes a Symposium on Human Translation and Artificial Intelligence

The National Library and Archives organized a symposium titled “Human Translation and Artificial Intelligence: Toward a Shared Future”, in conjunction with the world’s celebration of International Translation Day. The symposium aimed to broaden the horizons of constructive dialogue and promote the exchange of expertise and knowledge in this vital and evolving field.
The symposium highlighted the importance of translation in building bridges of communication among nations and promoting mutual understanding and rapprochement of Cultures. It also underscored the United Arab Emirates’ status as a leading regional model in supporting the translation movement as part of its cultural and knowledge strategy. Additionally, the symposium reviewed the prominent role of the National Library and Archives in this field through its organization of the Annual International Translation Conference, which serves as a pioneering platform that integrates language, technology, and knowledge, opening new horizons for the future of translation in the Arab world and reinforcing the UAE’s leading role in the production and dissemination of knowledge.
The symposium featured participants from the National Library and Archives, including Professor Dr. Saddik Gouhar, Translation Expert, and Mrs. Aysha Al Dhaheri, Head of Translation and Publication Section, along with a number of translators. Participants discussed the latest trends and key challenges in translation, emphasizing the importance of the advantages offered by the artificial intelligence technologies, such as fast completion of translations, reduced costs, multilingual capabilities, continuous learning, and support for professional translators through the development of specialized linguistic pathways – while stressing the importance of maintaining privacy and data confidentiality.
The symposium also addressed the challenges associated with the use of machine translation, particularly when dealing with historical, religious and cultural texts. These challenges include inaccuracies in conveying context, loss of cultural nuance, literal and stylistic errors, privacy risks, mishandling of sensitive matters, and the absence of literary creativity, tone, and style, as well as challenges related to linguistic consistency and the ethical responsibilities of translators.
The symposium was attended by His Excellency Dr. Abdulla Majid Al Ali, Director General of the National Library and Archives, and Mr. Hamad Al Hamiri, Director of Research and Knowledge Services Department. Both participated in discussing the symposium’s themes and presenting the best professional practices in translation, emphasizing the importance of establishing clear professional and ethical standards, using machine translation as an initial draft, utilizing specialized terminologies and dictionaries, and translating specialized texts in parts to ensure the quality of the final output.
The symposium concluded by reaffirming the importance of balancing between leveraging modern technologies and preserving the cultural and literary accuracy of texts, as a means of advancing the translation sector and enhancing its role in the transfer and localization of knowledge.
It is noteworthy that the National Library and Archives, as part of its projects in the field of AI, has launched a transcription and translation system, including a module for translating written texts, which has effective tools that support the work of researchers and historians.

Al Midfa Affirmed the Importance of the National Library and Archives’ Role in Enhancing the Performance of the Higher Committee for Regulating Documents and Archives in the UAE
The Board of Directors Expresses Its Appreciation to the National Library and Archives for Its Local and International Projects and Initiatives.

The Board of Directors of the National Library and Archives, in its meeting chaired by His Excellency Hamad bin Abdul Rahman Al Midfa and attended by the Board members, emphasized the importance of the projects and initiatives undertaken by the National Library and Archives in collecting and preserving records, along with the national library’s initiatives and methods of its development. The Board also emphasized the National Library and Archives’ commitment to fostering national education among generations and in supporting knowledge societies.
The Board of Directors, during its meeting at the headquarters of the National Library and Archives, praised the institution’s commitment to its strategic plan extending until 2032, that aims to enhance institutional efficiency, document and preserve the authentic UAE history and cultural heritage, and consolidate the use of artificial intelligence and its applications in the fields of archiving, documentation, and the national library to promote efficiency and innovation. The Board also highlighted the National Library and Archives’ successful local and international projects and initiatives, which reflect its dedication to exchanging expertise and distinguished experiences in its field of work, while achieving its objectives and pursuing its journey toward the future, as as it collects, preserves, and safeguards the UAE documentary and cultural heritage for future generations in accordance with the highest global standards that align with the rapidly evolving developments ahead.
His Excellency Chairman of the Board of Directors praised the National Library and Archives’ pivotal role in activating the work of the Higher Committee for Regulating Records and Archives in the UAE, which serves as an important milestone in the nation’s archival journey and a firm step towards achieving the desired alignment between the policy of the National Library and Archives and the policies adopted by various local entities within each emirate in the field of preservation and organization of documents, in line with the aspirations of the wise leadership.*
The Board reviewed the latest decisions issued regarding the organizational structure of the National Library and Archives, approved the executive regulations, and appointed an Acting Executive Director for the National Library and Archives.
The Board of Directors also discussed the decisions related to the establishment of the Higher Committee for Regulating Records and Archives in the UAE, financial powers, and contract awards at the National Library and Archives.
The Board of Directors reviewed the financial report for the first half of the current year 2025, the draft budget of the National Library and Archives, and updates on the implementation of its strategic plans. Additionally, the Board approved the final accounts for 2024 and commended the internal audit reports of the first half of year 2025.
The Board expressed its gratitude to the department directors and all staff of the National Library and Archives, urging them to continue their efforts in the next phase, as the UAE, under its wise leadership, continues its journey toward the future with aspirations to be a leader among the nations of the world.

Concluded a Training Course in Corporate Communication,
The National Library and Archives Enhances Corporate Communication Skills Among Its Employees

The National Library and Archives, in collaboration with the International Center for Training and Development, concluded a training course on the fundamentals, strategies, and evolution of corporate communication. The course aimed to strengthen corporate reputation and identity in the public mind, foster a positive image among audiences, and enhance internal communication. This initiative forms part of a series of specialized educational programs through which the National Library and Archives seeks to refine employees’ skills and develop their professional capabilities.
Held at the Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Hotel in Abu Dhabi, the course was attended by a large number of employees from the Corporate Communication and Community Department at the National Library and Archives, particularly those involved in managing internal and external relationships and interactions. The course aimed at enhancing their skills in employing effective corporate communication techniques and keeping pace with modern organizational developments.
The three-day training course, delivered by Mrs. Tohama Berkdar, addressed several key topics focused on corporate communication and the development of a comprehensive strategy for managing information and relationships between the institution and its internal and external audiences. The course aimed to build the institution’s positive image and reputation, achieve its goals, and earn the trust of customers and partners. This, in turn, plays a vital role in crisis management by ensuring swift and transparent responses, while also fostering corporate identity and loyalty, facilitating decision-making, and achieving the strategic goals of the institution.
The trainer introduced participants to the fundamentals of corporate communication, methods for developing communication strategies from international and cultural perspectives, and showed them the mechanisms to measure corporate reputation.
The specialized course opened avenues into various fields of corporate communication, including journalism and e-journalism, digital media, media relations, employee communication, and crisis communication, among others. It also explored recent developments in corporate communication, emphasizing the importance of leadership and change management, corporate social responsibility and community relations, and the integration of public relations within these frameworks. The course further addressed communication within institutions, including corporate and marketing communication, internal communication, and the organization and planning of corporate communication.
The course enriched the participants’ knowledge through open discussions, brainstorming sessions, and practical exercises, ensuring the integration of theoretical and practical aspects and the achievement of the intended objectives. At the conclusion of the course, participants received certificates in corporate communication.

UAE’s National Library and Archives joins the Embassy of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia in celebrating the 95th National Day

The National Library and Archives (NLA) participated alongside the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the celebration of the 95th National Day, which this year was held under the theme “Our Pride is Our Nature.”
To mark the occasion, the NLA organized a historical photography exhibition that underscored the profound fraternal and strategic relationship between the UAE and Saudi Arabia. This participation highlighted the NLA’s crucial role in documenting the two nations’ evolving ties, which continue to see significant development across all sectors.
The NLA’s exhibition featured dozens of photographs chronicling key meetings between the leaderships of both countries. H.E. Sultan bin Abdullah Al-Anqari, the Saudi Ambassador to the UAE, expressed deep appreciation for the NLA’s efforts in preserving the record of these enduring historical relations.
Attendees viewing the display were given a window into the exemplary history of bilateral relations. The photos highlighted the shared aspirations, mutual respect, and close cooperation, which define this leading model of relations between both countries.
The display’s content served as a powerful testament to the exceptional relationship between the UAE and Saudi Arabia—a cultural and historical model for sibling nations. It reflects the continuous progress and vision alignment between the two leaderships, which consistently reinforce the interests of both peoples.
Hosted at the Saudi Embassy’s official ceremony in Abu Dhabi’s Emirates Palace, the NLA’s exhibition drew a remarkable crowd of well-wishers and participants.

Safeguarding the nation’s history: Higher Committee for Regulation of Document and Archive, chaired by H.E. Hamad Al Madfaa, holds its first session at the National Archives and Library.

The Higher Committee for Regulation of Document and Archive across the UAE convened its inaugural meeting under the chairmanship of H.E. Hamad bin Abdul Rahman Al Midfa, Chairman of the Board of the National Library and Archives (NLA). This meeting followed His Excellency’s decision to establish the Committee, tasked with supervising the organization, management, and monitoring of documents within government entities. The Committee underscores the significance of historical documents and the importance of safeguarding them for posterity.
H.E. Hamad Al Midfa opened the session with remarks highlighting the importance of the Committee’s first meeting, describing it as a key milestone in the nation’s archival development. He emphasized that it represents a firm step toward achieving alignment between the NLA’s policies and those implemented across local authorities in each Emirate regarding the preservation and organization of documents. He further affirmed that the NLA is fully prepared to provide advisory, technical, and technological support to government entities, and to foster collaboration and integration.
His Excellency expressed optimism that the Committee, comprising members with diverse expertise, will be able to develop a clear roadmap leading to best practices in documentation and the preservation of the national memory, alongside fulfilling the aspirations of the nation’s leadership.
The meeting, held at the NLA’s headquarters, reviewed the details of the decision to establish the Higher Committee, chaired by H.E. Hamad Al Midfa, with membership including:
• H.E. Dr. Abdullah Majed Al Ali, Director General of the National Library and Archives, Vice Chairman of the Committee.
• H.E. Mohamed Salem Al Hamli, Executive Director of the Government Protocol Sector in Abu Dhabi.
• H.E. Dr. Mohamed Salem Al Mazrouei, Board Member, Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library, Dubai.
• H.E. Salah Salem Al Mahmoud, Director General of Sharjah Archives, Sharjah.
• H.E. Mohamed Al Kaabi, Executive Director, Government of Ajman Media Office.
• H.E. Haitham Sultan Al Ali, Director General, Department of Tourism and Archaeology, Umm Al Quwain.
• H.E. Ahmed Obaid Al Teneiji, Director General, Department of Antiquities and Museums, Ras Al Khaimah.
• H.E. Dr. Suleiman Mohamed Al Kaabi, Director General, Fujairah Government Excellence Program.
As part of its mandate to supervise the organization of documents within local government entities, the Committee highlighted the importance of assessing the current status of archives, developing policies and procedures for document preservation and organizational management, monitoring evaluation processes, and ensuring the proper preservation of digital records. These activities are to be conducted in accordance with Federal Law No. 7 of 2008 concerning the National Library and Archives, its amendments, and executive regulations.
Dr. Hamad Al Mutairi, Executive Director of the National Library and Archives, presented the Committee’s work plan, which includes establishing subcommittees and working groups in emirates lacking a designated coordinating body. The committee agreed to prioritize completing archival assessments, submitting periodic reports, and tracking the implementation of recommendations.
Committee members emphasized the importance of establishing subcommittees or working groups within each government entity. These groups are tasked with preparing diagnostic and follow-up reports on archival conditions, submitting periodic reports to the Higher Committee, and monitoring challenges alongside proposing appropriate solutions.
In this regard, H.E. Dr. Abdullah Majed Al Ali, Director General of the National Library and Archives, confirmed that the NLA will take responsibility for delivering awareness workshops for local committees in each Emirate, organizing training programs for staff, and responding to all requests from government entities across the UAE.