Abu Dhabi Hosts Fourth International Conference On Manuscripts Focusing On Visual Arts

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is preparing to host the Fourth Abu Dhabi International Conference on Manuscripts. Scheduled for 8th and 9th October at the Cultural Foundation, this event will focus on ‘Visual Arts in Arabic and Islamic Manuscripts: Artistic Heritage and Contemporary Influence’. The conference is organised in collaboration with McGill University, Canada.

Experts from various fields such as art history, Islamic and Arabic manuscript studies, cultural preservation, and digital humanities will gather at the conference. They will explore the intricate aesthetic, cultural, and historical significance of manuscript visual arts. This gathering aims to highlight their impact on contemporary artistic expression.

The 2025 programme aims to enhance both academic and public understanding of visual arts within Arabic and Islamic manuscripts. It provides a platform to celebrate their rich cultural heritage while examining their influence on modern creativity. This initiative underscores the importance of preserving these artistic traditions.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, stated that the conference is a crucial part of DCT Abu Dhabi’s mission to preserve Arabic heritage. He said, "Now in its fourth edition, the Abu Dhabi International Conference on Manuscripts is a key pillar of DCT Abu Dhabi’s mission to preserve and promote Arabic heritage."

In conjunction with the conference, DCT Abu Dhabi and McGill University are hosting the travelling exhibition 'Golden Ink: A Journey through Arab and Islamic Manuscripts'. This exhibition celebrates the richness and global impact of Arabic and Islamic manuscript heritage. It serves as an inspiration for students and connects experts, artists, university students, and educational institutions.

The initiatives collectively foster a dynamic dialogue across generations and disciplines. They aim to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted legacy of Arab and Islamic traditions. These efforts reinforce Abu Dhabi’s status as a centre for intellectual exchange and cultural dialogue.

Commitment to Cultural Preservation

DCT Abu Dhabi's cultural initiatives reflect its commitment to protecting the emirate’s cultural heritage globally. By fostering cultural diplomacy, nurturing scholarly engagement, and promoting cultural literacy, these efforts deepen public appreciation for Arab traditions. They also highlight Abu Dhabi's role as a hub for knowledge sharing.

The conference not only showcases artistic brilliance but also inspires younger generations to become stewards of their past. It reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a vital hub for intellectual exchange and cultural dialogue.

With inputs from WAM