Sharjah Ruler documents history in new encyclopedia

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah has announced 'Majma' Al-Tawarikh' (The Arabic Encyclopedia), a new historical project that will serve the Arab world by chronicling events from 550 BCE onwards.

Described by the Sharjah ruler as the "greatest work", the encyclopedia will be launched at the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) in November 2025.

The 51-volume archive will encompass the complete history of the Arabian Peninsula and Persia, collating invaluable information from a range of sources. “It contains Dutch, British, French, and rare Ottoman documents. We gained access to Istanbul’s archival centres and collected extensive material, which will serve as a key reference for any researcher,” he revealed.

His Highness highlighted how the collection will be a favourite for researchers and those interested in exploring historical details, offered as a comprehensive resource. "From Baghdad to Diriyah, from Persia to the Gulf, it includes material previously unexplored, especially extensive French archival documents from the French Foreign Ministry. This collection is a rare opportunity for universities and scholars pursuing forward-thinking studies,” he added.

Working with a team of researchers, he also emphasised the one-of-a-kind dedicated scholarly service that the encyclopedia brings as it reflects "one's people, culture, and and heritage." 

Sheikh Dr Al Qasimi confirmed that the volumes are in their final review stage and that he plans to complete reading and reviewing all 51 volumes within the next 90 days, ensuring they will be available at the Sharjah Book Fair.

His historical interest was also reflected in his previous work, History of Al Qawasim, a five-volume study documenting 13 centuries of the Al Qasimi family’s history, from the first year of Hijra (622 AD) to 1240 AH (1825 AD).