- The Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation Chairman was chosen for being ‘an inspiring mind that helped shape the cultural landscape’.
In recognition of his contributions to shaping the UAE’s cultural scene, and in celebration of his inspiring thought, rich literary legacy, and enduring impact on the nation’s knowledge ecosystem, the 35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF), organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) from 13 to 18 September 2026, has selected His Excellency Mohammed Al Murr, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation, as the first of its new annual ’Emirati Pioneers’ initiative.
This selection reflects the Centre’s commitment to preserving the legacy of pioneers, highlighting their pioneering journeys, and presenting their rich experiences as influential national role models in cultural industry and to promoting the sustainability of knowledge for new generations.
Over the course of his career, marked by generous contributions, Al Murr established a significant presence for himself in the UAE’s cultural landscape. He has contributed to safeguarding the nation’s authentic heritage, strengthening new generations’ connection to their Arabic language, heritage, and intellectual identity. He spearheaded notable efforts that have positioned culture as a fundamental pillar in the nation-building and development journey, and as a bridge connecting the past, present, and future. His contributions ultimately served to reinforce the presence of Emirati culture and enhance its regional and international standing.
As part of the Emirati Pioneers initiative, the Fair will dedicate a mural narrating Mohammed Al Murr’s life journey, as well as a special pavilion featuring a wide selection of his publications and rare collections. A documentary film summarising his career will also be screened in Arabic and English. Other cultural events will offer visitors the opportunity to discover the key aspects of his exceptional experience in culture and knowledge. These activities document his national journey, his vision for building cultural institutions, and how administrative and media-oriented thought can shape cultural advancement and enrich the knowledge of new generations.
In the field of cultural work, Al Murr has published 12 short story collections that trace social transformations in the UAE, and offer in-depth analysis of reality through journalistic articles that he compiled in several books, two of which were selected for inclusion in university curricula in the UAE. As a true creative figure, Al Murr transitioned from theoretical writing to institution-building ,progressing from chairing the Cultural and Scientific Association (NADWA), founded in 1987, to leading the Dubai Cultural Council in 2004. Each milestone paved the way for greater ambition, culminating in his efforts to establish the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority in 2008.
In the media sector, Mohammed Al Murr left a clear mark. Serving as Editor-in-Chief of both Gulf Times and Al Bayan. He reflected the pulse of society, addressing issues of culture, the arts, and the community. His love of knowledge and beauty led him to trace rare manuscripts and collect works of fine art and contemporary Arabic calligraphy. He was also passionate about the history of postal services in the UAE and Oman, making his personal collection one of the region’s most valuable knowledge treasures. Despite this, he successfully fulfilled his responsibilities as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Arabic Language Award, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation, and member of several academic and cultural boards. He has continued to offer his extensive expertise and contributions, marking a range of milestones throughout his life that narrate the journey of a prominent figure who has proven to be part of the “nation’s collective cultural memory”.
The Emirati Pioneers initiative is a comprehensive national project that combines direct dialogue, live documentation, publishing, and visual production to create enduring content that strengthens culture, ensures its continuity, and celebrates the legacy and impact of pioneers.
The initiative is part of a broader context that translates the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre’s vision to build a cultural ecosystem that contributes to the production, circulation and preservation of knowledge, making it accessible and expanding its impact. These objectives align with the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair’s established role of providing a space for dialogue and knowledge exchange locally, regionally, and internationally.
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