His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, marked a significant moment for UAE heritage with the unveiling of Mleiha: Ancient Treasures of the UAE, a landmark publication produced by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) in collaboration with Assouline Publishing. Attending the launch was Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Shurooq.
His Highness commemorated the occasion by signing a special edition of the book, a gesture reflecting his enduring commitment to preserving and celebrating the UAE’s cultural heritage.
The launch took place during His Highness’s tour at the opening of the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), where he visited the joint pavilion of Shurooq and Assouline. There, he signed the inaugural copy of the book, a testament to Shurooq’s exceptional efforts in capturing the archaeological legacy and cultural history of Mleiha, which stretches back over 200,000 years.
Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi underscored the publication’s value, stating: “This book offers a window into the values and heritage that shape our identity in Sharjah and the UAE. By collaborating with experts from the Sharjah Archaeology Authority, distinguished international specialists, and leading creative talents, we aim to honour Mleiha’s story as a cornerstone of our history. We hope this work inspires future generations with a passion for exploration and a profound appreciation of our rich heritage.”
Mleiha: Ancient Treasures of the UAE charts the region’s evolution, from early human settlement nearly 200,000 years ago to its prominence as a thriving centre of trade and innovation, highlighting Mleiha’s influence as a major urban hub in the Arabian Peninsula. Now recognized on UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage Sites, the book delves into Mleiha’s remarkable history, guiding readers through Bronze Age tombs, pre-Islamic forts, and intricate artefacts, each discovery revealing the stories of civilizations that flourished in this desert expanse.
The publication includes scholarly contributions from respected historians and archaeologists, including His Excellency Issa Yousef, Director General of the Sharjah Archaeology Authority; His Excellency Dr. Sabah Aboud Jassim; and Dr. Bruno Overlaet, an advisor to the Sharjah Archaeology Authority from the Royal Museums of Art and History. Visual contributions from American photographer Eric Van Nynatten and French artist Amy Elena Nash add an artistic dimension to the book, merging intellectual depth with visual allure.
Known for its acclaimed cultural publications, Assouline Publishers has crafted this large-format book to merge visual and historical storytelling, immersing readers in Mleiha’s profound legacy as a vital hub for early human migration from Africa.
Now available to readers, researchers, and cultural institutions regionally and globally, this work serves as an invaluable educational resource and an artistic achievement, broadening the understanding of Mleiha’s archaeological significance. It not only enriches scholars, historians, and collectors but also captures the imagination of a broader audience, spotlighting Sharjah’s cultural heritage and bolstering Mleiha’s appeal as a unique destination combining heritage, culture, and eco-tourism.
