Mohammed Bin Rashid Launches Al Maktoum Archives To Safeguard Dubai’s Cultural Legacy
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, recently inaugurated the Al Maktoum Archives. This initiative aims to preserve the cultural heritage and legacy of Dubai's rulers, ensuring future generations can access this rich history. The archives will house comprehensive records about Dubai's leaders, including their biographies and literary works.
The archives aim to document the significant historical roles played by Dubai's rulers in transforming the city into a modern global hub. It will also disseminate their intellectual, humanitarian, and cultural legacies through various publications and media channels. H.H. Sheikh Mohammed stated: "The Al Maktoum Archives is a national archive and an open book offering insights on the history of governance in Dubai as a model for advancing development."
Sheikh Mohammed emphasised that preserving national heritage is crucial for future generations. He noted that the story of a ruler is intertwined with that of their people, highlighting the unity between UAE leaders and citizens. The archives will serve as a reference for those interested in understanding the leadership experiences that have shaped Dubai.
The launch event was attended by several dignitaries, including H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and other prominent figures such as H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. A short documentary titled ‘Rashid the Leader’ was screened during the ceremony.
The archives will create a digital record of Dubai's rulers and the Al Maktoum family while training national talent in archiving skills. It aims to be a primary resource for decision-makers, researchers, academics, and others interested in the leadership legacy of Dubai's rulers.
During the event, historical photographs were displayed, showcasing images from 1894 to recent times. These included rare photos of past rulers like Sheikh Maktoum bin Hasher Al Maktoum and Sheikh Butti bin Suhail Al Maktoum. The archives will also document oral histories through interviews with individuals who witnessed key events in Dubai’s history.
Future Plans and Collaborations
A decree has been issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed establishing the Board of Directors for the Al Maktoum Archives Foundation. This board will oversee collaborations with local, regional, and international organisations to exchange expertise on historical documents.
The archives plan to publish books and reference works on historical documents while developing cultural content to highlight Dubai rulers' leadership experiences. It aims to provide valuable information to researchers globally while coordinating with UAE entities to further its objectives.
Mohammed Ahmed Al Murr highlighted how Dubai's journey is not just an economic success but a human story led by visionary rulers committed to serving people. He stated: "What sets Dubai’s journey apart is that it has never been merely an economic or urban success story; it is, above all, a human story led by rulers who made serving people their goal."
With inputs from WAM
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