Daijiworld Media Network – Dubai
Dubai, Oct 27: In a landmark move to preserve its rich heritage, Dubai has inaugurated the Al Maktoum Archives, a dedicated institution to document the emirate’s history and the enduring contributions of its ruling family.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, attended the inauguration along with H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai. The initiative, overseen by the Executive Office of Sheikh Mohammed, aims to safeguard the Al Maktoum family’s legacy and the emirate’s leadership journey.
Sheikh Mohammed described the archives as “a national archive and an open book offering insights into the history of governance in Dubai as a model for advancing development.” He said the new facility will serve as a vital reference for understanding the leadership and humanitarian contributions of Dubai’s rulers.
The Al Maktoum Archives will house a comprehensive collection of biographies, literary works, official records, photographs, and artefacts related to Dubai’s rulers. The launch featured a screening of documentaries such as Rashid the Leader, exhibitions of rare photographs dating back to 1894, and displays tracing Dubai’s leadership from Sheikh Maktoum bin Hasher Al Maktoum to the present ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Sheikh Mohammed was also briefed on plans to digitize archival records, develop national expertise in preservation, and position the archives as a central reference for researchers and policymakers.
Coinciding with the launch, Sheikh Mohammed issued Decree No. 44 of 2025, forming the Board of Directors of the Al Maktoum Archives Foundation. The board, chaired by the Executive Office Chairman, includes senior government and cultural officials, along with expert members. The decree takes immediate effect and will be published in the Official Gazette.
The archives will focus on documenting Dubai’s oral history, producing documentaries, preserving artefacts, and conducting studies on the emirate’s leadership and milestones.
Mohammed Ahmed Al Murr, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation, said the archives reflect Dubai’s human-centered approach to development. He emphasized that making this legacy accessible will inspire future generations and serve as a valuable resource for researchers worldwide.
The Al Maktoum Archives will collaborate with global cultural institutions to share expertise, publish reference works, and promote awareness of Dubai’s historic journey and the visionary leadership of the Al Maktoum family.