The National Library and Archives (NLA) has launched its latest initiative, “Al Majlis,” a national cultural and historical platform that opens during major events and national occasions. The initiative serves as an interactive space for knowledge exchange and a venue to highlight the institution’s continuing efforts to preserve the heritage of the United Arab Emirates, safeguard its national memory, document it and make it accessible through innovative approaches that reflect the institution’s forward-looking vision.
This initiative is part of the NLA’s commitment to strengthening its presence in national forums and reinforcing its leading role in the cultural landscape by introducing specialised platforms that enable the public and interested entities to explore its advanced outputs in archiving, documentation and historical research. The initiative also strengthens the NLA’s pivotal role in promoting knowledge and protecting Emirati heritage.
The flaunch of the inaugural Al Majlis took place in partnership with the Emirates International Endurance Village as part of Union Day Cup activities, at which the platform hosted its inaugural lecture entitled “Purebred Arabian Horses in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi,” delivered by researcher Mohammed Ali Al Matrooshi, a specialist in horses, their bloodlines, and the history of equestrianism.
During the lecture, Al Matrooshi discussed the bloodlines of Arabian horses in Abu Dhabi and the origins of their pedigrees, presenting valuable information from preserved historical manuscripts that documented the Arab world’s deep interest in horses and the methods used to record their lineage. He also highlighted the esteemed status Arabian horses have held among the leaders of the UAE, as they have been an integral part of social and economic life throughout history, not only as symbols of strength and chivalry, but also as a deeply rooted element of Emirati cultural identity, cherished by both society and leadership.
The lecture showcased the beauty of the Arabian horse, its role in social and military life and its enduring presence across history, shedding light on the precise knowledge preserved in rare manuscripts that testify to the cultural value of purebred lineages.
The Al Majlis initiative reflects the NLA’s commitment to developing pioneering contemporary platforms that open new avenues for collaboration with national institutions and contribute to the development of joint knowledge-based projects in heritage preservation and advanced technologies, thereby reinforcing the institution’s role in supporting sustainable development.
Through Al Majlis, the NLA aims to strengthen national identity and enhance societal awareness of the importance of preserving the UAE’s collective memory. This is achieved through specialised programmes and rich content that enable current and future generations to explore the country’s cultural heritage and follow the NLA’s continuous efforts to preserve, document and present it through modern methodologies.
The National Library and Archives aspires, through Al Majlis, to realise a future vision that elevates the value of knowledge and heritage while building strategic partnerships that align with the UAE’s ambitions for leadership and excellence.
