With Traditional and Entertaining Activities and Decorations,
The National Library and Archives Celebrates the 54th UAE National Day
To commemorate the 54th UAE National Day, the National Library and Archives celebrated with a vibrant program of traditional and patriotic activities that embodied the spirit of the nation. The event welcomed staff and visitors, creating an atmosphere brimming with pride, unity, and honour.
On this occasion, His Excellency Dr. Abdullah Majid Al Ali, Director General of the National Library and Archives, affirmed that Union Day (Eid Al-Etihad) is a timeless milestone in the UAE’s national memory. It embodies the values of pride and joy and renews the spirit of belonging and giving. He noted that this day reflects the unity of hearts, bound by a sincere resolve to forge a proud and powerful nation.
His Excellency added that the anniversary of the Union recalls the historic moment when the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, along with his fellow Rulers of the Emirates, set in motion the story of the Emirati glory. From that day forward, a pioneering civilizational renaissance has propelled the nation into the ranks of the world’s most advanced countries, offering a development model for others to follow.
He also emphasized that Union Day is a renewed national occasion that inspires generations with a spirit of challenge and creativity, encouraging them to continue building the nation’s legacy by following in the footsteps of leaders whose achievements amazed the world. His Excellency recalled the efforts and noble contributions of the founding fathers and praised the role of the wise leadership that has carried the journey forward with determination and resolve. This leadership has elevated the UAE to advanced standing across various indicators of progress and prosperity.
On behalf of the National Library and Archives, His Excellency extended his warmest congratulations and best wishes to the wise leadership and the people of the UAE on this cherished national occasion. He affirmed the National Library and Archives’ commitment to fulfilling its mission of preserving the memory of the nation and its rich heritage. He added that it remains dedicated to keeping pace with the country’s achievements and maintaining a valuable record that inspires generations and supports the journey of building the future.

The National Day festivities were marked by engaging and high-spirited performances that strengthened national belonging and loyalty to the leadership. The occasion generated an atmosphere of joy and profound pride. The program featured traditional Emirati performances of Al-Taghrooda and Al-Azzi, presented by the acclaimed artist Mohammed bin Aziz Al Shehhi. Young students from Al Dhabyaniyah Kindergarten and School also gave excellent, well-received performances of patriotic songs and music. In recognition of their creativity and to promote continued excellence, they were honoured by the National Library and Archives.

The headquarters of the National Library and Archives was adorned with celebratory decorations, chiefly the national flag and the number 54. Patriotic songs and music filled the air throughout the venue, while the traditional and entertaining activities received wide and enthusiastic engagement from attendees, adding a vibrant layer of joy to the celebration.

National Library and Archives and Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority Organize a Joint Exhibition Reflecting Values of Tolerance and Human Coexistence

In cooperation with the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, the National Library and Archives organized a joint exhibition that reflects the deeply rooted values of tolerance and human coexistence in the UAE, in conjunction with the International Day for Tolerance.
Held at the Authority’s headquarters, the exhibition featured a wide collection of historical photographs documenting the UAE’s longstanding commitment to fostering a culture of openness and mutual respect among members of the community, as part of both entities’ efforts to raise societal awareness of the values of coexistence and cultural diversity.
The organization of the exhibition was the result of close coordination between the tolerance committees of both entities, which collaborated to prepare documentary content showcasing enduring national and humanitarian stances. The event also underscored the vital role of government institutions in promoting a culture of tolerance and building bridges of communication across different segments of society.
Both entities emphasized that the event reflects the UAE’s steadfast approach to upholding the principles of tolerance and moderation and aligns with the vision of the UAE’s wise leadership in positioning the UAE as a global model of coexistence and peace. It further supports national initiatives aimed at strengthening social cohesion.
Representatives from the tolerance committees of both organizations attended the exhibition where they reviewed selected photographs illustrating the UAE’s rich history of initiatives that promote coexistence and reinforce the principles of human fraternity, solidifying the the UAE’s status as an international hub for tolerance.
At the conclusion of the event, the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority honored the members of the NLA’s Tolerance Committee in recognition of their collaborative efforts.
In a related context, the NLA and the Authority organized a joint event titled “Al Ghaf, A Symbol of Tolerance in the UAE Community.” The event concluded with the planting of a Ghaf tree in the garden of the NLA, symbolizing the tree’s significance as an emblem of tolerance and coexistence in Emirati society.
Earlier, a meeting was held at the NLA to enhance institutional partnerships and exchange expertise between the tolerance committees, during which best practices for promoting a culture of tolerance at both the institutional and community levels were reviewed.

The National Archives and Library’s Cultural Season Highlights the Historical and Civilizational Heritage of Liwa Oasis

As part of its Cultural Season for 2025, the National Library and Archives organized a virtual seminar titled “Liwa… Land of the Golden Hills”, which explored the historical, cultural, and economic significance of Liwa Oasis as one of the most important oases in Al Dhafra Region and a historic home of the Bani Yas confederation.
In her opening speech, Mrs. Eman Al-Breiki, session moderator, emphasized Liwa’s importance as an economic hub, hosting some of major onshore oil and gas fields in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, in addition to its historical value and its association with the Al Bu Falah family, including Al Nahyan. She also highlighted Liwa’s natural beauty, characterized by towering sand dunes and settlements, Mahadir, surrounded by fertile oases with fresh water.
The researcher Shareena Saeed Al Qubaisi, Head of the Oral History Unit, delivered a documentary presentation based on interviews with several local narrators. She explored the Qayez, summer harvest, journey and up to 130 of Liwa settlements, Mahadir, highlighting aspects of the social and economic life, the roles of men and women, and the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s interest in cultivating Liwa.
Al Qubaisi also supported her presentation with photographs and detailed maps documenting Liwa’s historical sites, farms, Qayez caravans, and traditional activities.
Mr. Rashid Saeed Al Zaabi, a researcher from Trends Research and Advisory Center, presented a paper titled “Liwa: From Knowledge Dissemination to Knowledge Production”, which examined the oasis’s role in the knowledge economy, its cultural and heritage significance, and its contributions to food security and modern agricultural projects.
Al Zaabi highlighted the leadership vision for Liwa’s development, from Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s agricultural initiatives to the ongoing efforts of H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, who continues the Founding Father’s legacy by supporting the agricultural sector and promoting its contribution to the national economy. He proposed four mechanisms to enhance Liwa’s role in the knowledge economy including heritage digitization, applications of artificial intelligence, production of global visual content, and promotion of collaboration between research and cultural institutions.
In conclusion, the National Library and Archives affirmed that Liwa will remain a historical oasis of a steadfast national, heritage, and economic significance and a key component of the UAE’s journey toward a knowledge-based economy.

The National Library and Archives Highlights Amendments to the Executive Regulations of Federal Law No. (7) of 2008

The National Library and Archives (NLA) organized a virtual seminar for government entities to present the recent amendments to the Executive Regulations of Federal Law No. (7) of 2008 concerning the National Library and Archives. The session aimed to align the updated provisions with the UAE’s modern developments, national strategies, and current legislative frameworks.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Hamad Al Mutairi, Acting Director-General of the NLA, emphasized that the updated Regulation provides clear and comprehensive guidelines for technical procedures related to document transferal and destruction, sorting and classification, as well as preservation and accessibility. He noted that the amendments also introduce a new section dedicated to the National Library affairs and the enhancement of the UAE’s cultural resources.
Dr. Al Mutairi noted that the revised policies align with the nation’s broader drive to adopt advanced technologies and streamline workflows, saving time while ensuring the proper preservation of both paper and electronic records. He also underscored the link between these updates and the government’s Zero Bureaucracy initiative, as improved records management accelerates access to information and enhances sustainability and green practices.
Archival expert Ahmed Moudjab presented a detailed overview of the amendments, noting that the updated Regulation is available on the NLA’s official website. He explained that the changes are a natural outcome of the institutional merger between the National Archives and the National Library.
Moudjab urged all holders of public records or materials related to state interests to transfer them to the NLA to ensure their proper preservation. He stressed the importance of establishing a dedicated document management unit within every government entity to enable effective coordination with local bodies responsible for permanent archival preservation.
Technical expert Dr. Soufiane Bouharrat addressed the management of classified records, outlining the confidentiality periods for various categories, which range from 20 to 60 years depending on their nature and their relation to national security, legal matters, or personal privacy. He also reviewed technical criteria for classifying documents of historical and scientific value, rare materials, and records related to human resources and personnel affairs.
Bouharrat further discussed the joint records preservation plan developed by the NLA and the training provided to government entities to support its implementation. He emphasized the importance of transferring government records to the NLA as part of each entity’s national duty. He also clarified destruction procedures, one of the most sensitive processes, which require approval from a specialized committee and must be carried out in the presence of an NLA representative.
In addition, he shed light on the management and archiving of electronic records, as well as private records owned by individuals, families, and companies, emphasizing the importance of collecting and preserving them at the National Library and Archives.
The seminar concluded by affirming that the success of the national records preservation project depends on strong, coordinated cooperation between the NLA and government entities, as records constitute state property and safeguarding them is a shared responsibility.
The session witnessed strong engagement from participants, featuring remarks and inquiries that focused on the practical application of the amended executive regulations.

The National Library and Archives Highlights the Importance of Artificial Intelligence in Advancing Institutional Work

The National Library and Archives organized a lecture on artificial intelligence and the successful means of its application, with the objective of underscoring the role of artificial intelligence and its contributions to enhancing human capabilities and improving work efficiency across various sectors.
The lecture was delivered by Dr. Hassan Al Musabi, Technical Expert at the National Library and Archives, who addressed three principal themes: an introductory overview of artificial intelligence and its evolution; a review of Microsoft’s report titled “AI Roadmap: Path to Successful Application”; and an examination of institutional policies related to implementing strategies for adopting artificial intelligence.
The lecture highlighted the Microsoft report issued this year, which presents insights derived from interviews with more than one hundred decision-makers and technology experts on how smart solutions can be leveraged to achieve positive operational outcomes. Participants involved in developing the report affirmed that artificial intelligence will be a decisive factor in the growth and advancement of institutions in the coming period, emphasizing that AI readiness represents the primary enabler for the effective integration of artificial intelligence within institutional work environments.
The report noted that institutional readiness for adopting artificial intelligence is built upon five pillars: business strategy; technology and data; AI strategy and expertise; organization and culture; and, finally, governance and adoption.
In conclusion, Dr. Al Musabi reaffirmed the significance of artificial intelligence as an advanced technological tool that institutions can employ to accelerate processes and enhance service quality. He emphasized the need to establish a clear and precise vision for AI applications by first identifying the processes that require the integration of AI technologies. He also stressed that adopting artificial intelligence does not imply its application across all institutional processes, but rather in those prioritized by institutional strategy to advance performance and achieve excellence.

The National Library and Archives Showcases Aspects of Maritime Heritage in “Memory of the Nation” Pavilion at the Sheikh Zayed Festival

At its “Memory of the Nation” pavilion at the Sheikh Zayed Festival 2025–2026, the National Library and Archives dedicates a section for the traditional maritime life, highlighting the fishing and pearl-diving professions and the related crafts, which once formed vital economic and social foundations for the people of the UAE before the formation of the Union.
The scene prominently features the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan who paid great attention to maritime heritage. He supported the development of traditional maritime races, diving expeditions, and shipbuilding, with a strong commitment to passing this rich legacy on to future generations and familiarizing them with the lives of their ancestors.
The section displays documented materials photographs of traditional tools used in fishing and diving, which were crafted from simple, locally sourced materials. It also features a rare photograph of the late Sheikh Zayed’s 1981 visit to Mr. Omeir bin Youssef’s home where a collection of natural pearls was displayed before him.
The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi participates also in displaying a collection of natural and cultured pearls, accompanied by an explanation of the five grading criteria: roundness, size, color, surface quality, and luster.
Lining the walls of the section are historical photographs of traditional dhow races, scenes from diving ceremonies, oyster collection baskets, and various crafts associated with the pearling profession. Also on display are traditional diving boats and the process of preparing fishing nets.
Visitors can watch archival footage on dedicated screens, illustrating the pearling stages and traditional methods. Additionally, the National Library and Archives present a map of pearl banks in the Arabian Gulf, enriching visitors’ knowledge and deepening their understanding of this authentic tradition in the memory of the nation.
This section of the “Memory of the Nation” pavilion, with its contents, serves as a window through which new generations can learn about diving, the profession of their ancestors, which has now become part of the past.

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).”