50 Rare Manuscripts from UAE University Collections Reflect the Scientific and Cultural Value of Manuscripts Across History Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre and United Arab Emirates University Organise 'Manuscripts – Identity and Sustainable Development' Exhibition

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre (SZGMC), in collaboration with the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), is hosting the exhibition “Manuscripts – Identity and Sustainable Development”. This qualitative initiative highlights the University’s history and its five-decade legacy since its establishment by the Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may his soul rest in peace.

Running until 29 May, the exhibition showcases 50 rare manuscripts that embody the scientific and cultural significance of manuscripts across history, as authentic sources of knowledge and a fundamental pillar in preserving scientific and cultural heritage. The exhibition was inaugurated on Wednesday, 20 May 2026, at the Visitor Centre in the Peace Dome at the Mosque, in the presence of His Excellency Dr Yousif Al Obaidli, Director General of SZGMC, and His Excellency Professor Ahmed Ali Al Raeesi, Vice Chancellor of UAEU, along with a number of academic and administrative leaders and students. The initiative reflects the depth of institutional collaboration between the two entities.

The themes of the 50 manuscripts on display, drawn from the collections of the UAEU Library, reflect a rich diversity of knowledge that embodies the values of science, innovation, and service to humanity.

His Excellency Professor Ahmed Ali Al Raeesi, Vice Chancellor of UAEU, affirmed that organising this exhibition in collaboration with SZGMC underscores the University’s commitment to preserving scientific and cultural heritage and enhancing its presence within the knowledge landscape. He noted that making rare manuscripts accessible to researchers and enthusiasts reinforces their role as primary sources documenting the evolution of science and knowledge throughout history. He also praised the pivotal role played by the Centre in preserving human heritage and presenting it through contemporary approaches that strengthen cultural identity.

His Excellency added: “These manuscripts represent a scientific and civilisational value that reflects the contributions of scholars across various fields of knowledge. They also highlight the profound connection between cultural identity, science, and innovation. UAEU, guided by its academic and knowledge mission, is committed to preserving this heritage and presenting it to future generations in a way that enhances awareness of our scientific history and supports the sustainability of knowledge as a pillar of development and future-building.”

For his part, His Excellency Dr Yousif Al Obaidli, Director General of SZGMC, emphasised that hosting this exhibition reflects the Centre’s cultural and knowledge-based role and aligns with the UAE’s vision to preserve cultural heritage. He noted that it builds on the series of exhibitions and museums organised by the Centre, complementing the role of UAEU as a leading national institution in safeguarding scientific heritage and enhancing its presence within the cultural sphere.

Such initiatives include the Light & Peace Museum, which offers a knowledge journey into the values of tolerance and coexistence through rare artefacts and immersive experiences, and the exhibition “Andalusia: History and Civilisation”, which introduced visitors to the scientific and artistic legacy of Al-Andalus. His Excellency added: “Manuscripts represent a civilisational legacy that reflects the contributions of Islamic civilisation across the ages and continue to serve as a source of intellectual inspiration. This complements the valuable collections housed in the Mosque’s Library, enhancing visitors’ connection to this rich heritage.”