His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has launched the Al Maktoum Archives, an ambitious initiative dedicated to documenting and preserving the rich heritage, leadership legacy, and cultural impact of Dubai’s rulers and the Al Maktoum family.
The launch ceremony was attended by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.
A National Repository of Leadership and History
Overseen by the Executive Office of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Al Maktoum Archives will serve as a comprehensive repository of records, documents, and information chronicling the lives, achievements, and governance of Dubai’s rulers.
The archive will feature biographies, literary works, collections, and rare documents reflecting the visionary leadership that has transformed Dubai into a global economic and cultural hub. It will also promote the intellectual, humanitarian, and cultural legacy of the Al Maktoum family through publications, exhibitions, and media platforms.
A Living Chronicle of Leadership
Speaking at the launch, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed said:
“The Al Maktoum Archives is a national archive and an open book offering insights into the history of governance in Dubai — a model for advancing development.
It will be a new pillar for strengthening our national history and a reference for those seeking the secrets of our success and the essence of the leadership and humanitarian experiences of men who dedicated their lives to serving the nation.
Preserving our national heritage is our duty and the right of those who come after us. The story of a ruler is inseparable from the story of his people. The leaders and people of the UAE will remain one in spirit.”
Distinguished Attendance and Special Exhibits
The launch event was attended by senior members of the Al Maktoum family, including:
- His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council
- His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group
- His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE National Olympic Committee
- Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority
- His Highness Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Media Incorporated
Also present were Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, Chairman of The Executive Office of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, along with other senior officials.
Celebrating Dubai’s Historical Legacy
During the ceremony, Sheikh Mohammed attended the screening of a short documentary titled “Rashid the Leader.” The event also included a showcase of the Al Maktoum family tree and a curated selection of historical publications, books, and archival material.
Historic photographs of Dubai’s rulers, dating from 1894 to the present, were displayed — including two never-before-seen images of the late Sheikh Maktoum bin Hasher Al Maktoum (ruler from 1894–1906) and Sheikh Butti bin Suhail Al Maktoum (ruler from 1906–1912).
The exhibit also featured portraits of Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum (ruler from 1912–1958), Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum (ruler from 1958–1990), Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum (ruler from 1990–2006), and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s current ruler since 2006.
A Reference for Scholars and Future Generations
The Al Maktoum Archives will serve as a key reference for decision-makers, researchers, academics, and historians, providing access to rare records and documents that reflect Dubai’s leadership, political evolution, and social and cultural transformation.
The archive’s collection will include:
- Official correspondence and decrees bearing the rulers’ signatures or seals
- Historical documents on pivotal events in Dubai’s development
- Publications and reference works that illuminate the Al Maktoum family’s enduring vision and contributions
Through this initiative, Dubai reinforces its commitment to preserving and sharing its heritage while offering future generations an invaluable window into the city’s leadership journey — from its origins as a trading port to its rise as a modern global powerhouse.
