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.