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5/1/25, 10:55 AM House of Wisdom Concludes Rabat Book Fair Showcase with Homage to Islamic Travelogues

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House of Wisdom Concludes Rabat Book
Fair Showcase with Homage to
Islamic Travelogues

Rare Manuscripts of Ibn Majid and Ibn Battuta Illuminated Sharjah’s Cultural
Contribution to the 30th Edition of Morocco’s Premier Publishing Event

Sharjah, 30 April 2025
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 Mulsim 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 H.E. 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 H.E. Aawatif Hayar, Moroccan Minister of
Solidarity, Social Integration and the Family.
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 champion
culture and preserve our shared human heritage.”
The HoW booth hosted a session titled “Chapters of Islamic Art: Travelogues –
Exploring the Legacy of Ahmad ibn Majid and Ibn Battuta.” The session highlighted the
lasting impact of Islamic travelogues, with insights from H.E. Dr Abdulaziz Al
Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, and Sheikha Al Mutairi, Head
of National Culture and Documents at Juma Al Majid Center. They discussed the
motivations behind Muslim travels and the crucial contributions of Ibn Majid and Ibn
Battuta in documenting their journeys.
Additionally, HoW showcased its flagship initiatives, including the second edition of
“Chapters of Islamic Art,” currently running in Sharjah until 5 July with the theme
“Travelogues.” The exhibition features the origins of geographic documentation, Idrisi’s
medieval maps, ancient navigation tools, and rare manuscripts and books. Visitors to the
RIBF were also invited to experience the exhibition through an immersive, interactive
virtual tour.
Rare Manuscripts and Books on Navigation and Travel

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