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In the attendance of H.H. Sheikh Hamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Court, Al Hosn Research and Studies Centre launched its book, ‘Abu Dhabi & Pearls...A story with a history’, on March 17, 2011, during the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, March 15-20, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC).
The book, which was compiled and edited by Dr. Fatima Suhail Mohammed Abdullah Al-Muhairi in collaboration with an elite group of researchers, highlights the importance of pearl diving in Abu Dhabi and its significant role in placing the Emirate as a destination for voyages throughout history. As pearl diving grew in the region, travellers from around the world came to the Emirate and wrote about this in their travel records. As it was considered a luxury item in Europe and other areas, pearls became an important exported commodity, and in turn, had a significant effect on the trade in the Emirate and an increased cultural exchange with different nations.
One of the main focuses of the book is also to illustrate the important role of pearl-diving in shaping the social life within the Emirate. The chapters of the book illustrate the effect of pearl diving on the family structure, education and architecture. Pearl diving was also manifested as a cultural component of the community through songs, fashion and proverbs.
‘The Abu Dhabi & Pearls...A story with a history’ Book consists of two volumes. Each volume delves into nine main topics, including: a general introduction into the makeup and history of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, the history of specific islands in the Emirate, the Islamic Empire, European presence in the region, a modern history of Abu Dhabi, British presence in the Emirate, social life in Abu Dhabi, in addition to details on folklore and cultural aspects.
“I worked on this project because I feel that it is essential for people to learn more about the rich history of our Emirate, and the important part it has played in the region for years. Although the title of the book mentions pearls, the book is in fact a comprehensive publication featuring all the important aspects of the Emirate from its geography and geological makeup, to its rich history and societal trends and shifts”, Dr. Fatima Suhail Mohammed Abdullah Al-Muhairi, Editor of Abu Dhabi & Pearls...A story with a history, explained.
“We are very proud to have successfully completed this project, and to share such a valuable informational source portraying the rich culture of our nation with readers worldwide. It is important that as we are developing as a country, we remain true to our roots, and remember our beginnings. Pearl diving is a very significant part of our heritage and it is important that we acknowledge the implications that the practice had on the formation of Abu Dhabi today,” added Dr. Al-Muhairi, added.
Visitors to the book fair can visit Al Hosn Research and Studies Centre stand, located at Hall 12, stand F 06 to get a copy of Abu Dhabi Pearls...A story with a history.
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