Mohammed Bin Rashid Library welcomes a media delegation from the Sultanate of Oman

To learn about the Library's services and discuss prospects for cooperation

Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Member of the Board of Directors at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library (MBRL) Foundation, received today a media delegation from the Sultanate of Oman, including writer Mohammed Redha Al Lawati, Assistant to the Chief Human Resources Officer at Al Roya Newspaper and Advisor to Sharq Gharb Magazine; Dr. Redha Mehdi Al Lawati, Editor-in-Chief of the Sharq Gharb Magazine; Munir Hussein Al Salmeen, General Manager of Oyoun Newspaper and Digital Platform, and Aqil Abdel Khaleq, Managing Editor of Sharq Gharb Magazine.

The visit aimed at learning about the Library’s specialised facilities and unique services across various disciplines and fields, especially those provided to media professionals and researchers, in addition to promoting and discussing means of joint future cooperation.

Welcoming members of the visiting delegation, Al Hashemi stressed the importance of enhancing means of cultural and knowledge exchange, and creating channels for exchanging expertise across all common and relevant fields. This supports MBRL’s vision to strengthen local, regional and international strategic partnerships and advance the knowledge-based economy.

Touring the Library, the delegation was detailed on its various facilities, services, thematic libraries, and study spaces, in addition to features that accommodate the needs of people of determination. The delegation also visited the UAE photography exhibition, and Treasures of The Library exhibition, which displays a fascinating collection of rare and old books, atlases, manuscripts, and documents, some of which dating back to the 13^th century.

Moreover, the visiting delegation was briefed on the Library’s vision and annual program of events, as well as its adoption of the latest artificial intelligence and library technologies available worldwide, including an electronic retrieval system, self-service booths, a book digitisation lab, smart robots to answer visitors' inquiries, along with implementing AR, VR, and other advanced technologies.

The delegation praised the Media & Arts Library, which includes more than 15,000 print and digital works across multiple media in arts, architecture, design, fashion, music, performing arts, and writing. Visitors also applauded the Library's various services, facilities, and information related to the history of arts and different creative techniques. The delegation also touched upon MBRL's role in advancing the knowledge and cultural scene and supporting the knowledge-based economy pioneered by the United Arab Emirates at the regional level.

The delegation discussed with MBRL officials the promising future plans and strategies to leverage the expertise and capabilities of various local, regional and international media, in order to support Library's vision and aspirations to ignite the passion for knowledge and promote engagement across its year-round programmes and workshops.

One of the most technologically advanced libraries in the world, built over more than 500,000 sq. ft. including land and floor spaces, MBRL is one of the most remarkable buildings in the Middle East, with an architectural concept inspired by "The Rehl"- the traditional X-shaped lectern used across the Islamic world.