Sheikh Sultan Opens Arabic Studies Centre at Coimbra University

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the Centre for Arabic Studies at the University of Coimbra on Friday. H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, also attended the ceremony. This centre is the first of its kind in Portugal, dedicated to teaching Arabic language and culture, strengthening ties between the Arab and European worlds.

Bridge Between Cultures

The new centre aims to act as a bridge for cultural understanding and academic exchange. It will provide specialised Arabic language programmes, advanced courses in grammar and calligraphy, as well as seminars and forums that connect Arab and European writers, poets, and creatives. Sheikh Sultan highlighted the importance of cultural dialogue in building bridges between nations and communities.

Launch of Joanina Digital Library and Manuscript

During his visit, Sheikh Sultan also launched the Joanina Digital Library and gifted the historic Barbosa Manuscript, dating back to 1565. The manuscript provides an authentic record of the Arabian Gulf and surrounding regions, correcting distorted historical narratives. Sheikh Sultan has long researched the manuscript, which he acquired in 2012, and aims to preserve its historical value for future generations.

Publication of "A Momentous Journey"

Sheikh Sultan signed copies of his book, “A Momentous Journey,” published in Arabic, English, and Portuguese. He emphasized that culture does not change geography or history but changes the way people view and interpret them, turning borders into bridges and restoring historical accuracy through knowledge.

University Praises Sharjah’s Cultural Initiatives

Amílcar Valcão, Rector of the University of Coimbra, praised Sharjah’s contributions to global culture. He highlighted the university’s collaboration with the Sharjah Book Authority in digitising manuscripts and establishing the Middle East Digital Collection, named the Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi Collection. The Joanina Library, a UNESCO-recognised institution housing 30,000 rare items, also benefits from these initiatives.

High-Level Delegation Supports Visit

Sheikh Sultan was accompanied by a high-level delegation including Ahmed Abdulrahman Al Mahmoud, UAE Ambassador to Portugal; Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of Sharjah Book Authority; Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of Sharjah Institute for Heritage; Sultan Al Ameemi, Chairman of Emirates Writers Union; and Mohamed Hassan Khalaf, Director-General of Sharjah Broadcasting Authority.

Promoting Arabic Language and Heritage Globally

The inauguration of the centre and related initiatives reflect Sharjah’s vision to expand the global presence of Arab culture and heritage. Through education, digitisation, and intercultural dialogue, the centre will provide students and researchers the opportunity to study Arabic language, arts, and culture while fostering mutual understanding and cooperation between East and West.