Page 84 - AJMAN UNIVERSITY PR REPORT - APRIL 2025

5/1/25, 10:55 AM Sharjah gives rare manuscripts of Ibn Battua, Ibn Majid to Morocco

Sharjah gives rare manuscripts of Ibn Battua, Ibn Majid

to Morocco

19 hours ago

Sheikha Bodour with dignitaries at the event.

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter
As part of Sharjah’s Guest of Honour presence at the 30th Rabat International Book and Publishing Fair (RIBF), House of Wisdom (HoW) concluded its
participation with a thoughtfully curated cultural showcase highlighting the rich tradition of Islamic travelogues. Featuring rare manuscripts and exhibits, the
experience celebrated the legendary journeys of Ahmad Ibn Majid and Ibn Battuta — two of the Muslim world’s most renowned explorers.

The HoW booth attracted notable attention, including a visit from Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, accompanied
by His Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid, and Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority. HoW Executive Director Marwa Al Aqroubi
welcomed the dignitaries, offering insights into the showcased works that reflected the Arab world’s enduring contributions to travelogues and maritime navigation.

The booth also welcomed distinguished guests, including Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman Municipality and Planning Department and Vice
Chairman of Ajman University's Board of Trustees, and Aawatif Hayar, Moroccan Minister of Solidarity, Social Integration and the Family.

Rare manuscripts
House of Wisdom showcased a collection of rare manuscripts and books that highlighted the contributions of notable Arab explorers and navigators, including
Ahmad Ibn Majid and Ibn Battuta. Among the exhibits was a manuscript titled “The Verses of Ibn Majid,” a rare collection of poems, verses, and letters by Ibn Majid
on maritime literature, offering significant scientific value due to its previously unpublished poetic texts.
The exhibition also featured “Memorandum for Historians on the Innocence of Ibn Majid,” a book authored by His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al
Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. The book provides documented evidence that exonerates Ibn Majid from claims that he assisted the
Portuguese in reaching and occupying India.
Also on display was a rare manuscript of Ibn Battuta’s “A Masterpiece to Those Who Contemplate the Wonders of Cities and the Marvels of Traveling,” documenting
his 30-year journey across 44 countries. First printed in 1933 by the Amiriya Press in Cairo, the two-volume work has been translated into Portuguese, French,
English, and partially into German.

The participation further strengthens the HoW’s efforts to enhance Sharjah's international cultural presence and highlight Arab and Islamic heritage through its
evolving themes, including travelogues as a gateway to understanding civilisations and fostering cultural dialogue.

A bridge of cultural and intellectual exchange
Marwa Al Aqroubi said: “Morocco is a timeless crossroads of Arab-Islamic heritage — a living bridge of culture and thought. At RIBF, House of Wisdom continues
this dialogue, uniting shared values beyond borders.”

She added: “Sharjah’s designation as UNESCO World Book Capital in 2019 marked a turning point in championing knowledge, embodied in the founding of House
of Wisdom. With Rabat stepping into the same role in 2026, our cultural ties grow even stronger, reflecting the enduring commitment of the UAE and Morocco to

https://www.gulftoday.ae/culture/2025/04/30/sharjah-gives-rare-manuscripts-of-ibn-battua-ibn-majid-to-morocco 1/2