Sultan Al Qasimi Centre Highlights Sharjah Ruler’s Intellectual Legacy

Photo : Sharjah Govt Media Bureau

The Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi Centre in Sharjah has officially launched the ‘Scientific Degree’ project to honor the academic achievements of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. This new initiative, which began in November 2024, will run for a year and aims to showcase the prestigious academic degrees awarded to His Highness by renowned educational institutions across the globe.

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The initiative highlights several significant academic milestones in the Ruler of Sharjah’s illustrious career, particularly focusing on the outstanding degrees he has received. One of the major highlights of the project is His Highness’s 1985 PhD in history, which he earned with distinction from the University of Exeter in the UK. His doctoral thesis, titled “The Myth of Arab Piracy in the Arabian Gulf between 1797 and 1820 AD,” remains a pivotal work in Gulf history and remains highly regarded for its in-depth analysis and contributions to historical scholarship.

In addition to his academic achievements, His Highness has always been committed to the advancement of knowledge, particularly in the areas of history and regional studies. On May 15, 2007, the University of Exeter honored His Highness by hosting a special event in recognition of his relationship with the institution. During this occasion, Prof. Steve Smith, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Exeter, praised His Highness’s substantial contributions to scientific and research initiatives in the Gulf region. Prof. Smith specifically commended His Highness for his efforts to challenge historical misconceptions, offering a more accurate understanding of the Gulf's rich heritage.

The University of Exeter also recognized His Highness’s significant role in enhancing academic opportunities, and his ongoing support for students and research institutions. As part of the celebrations, His Highness was named a founding member of the Exeter University Supporters Council, further cementing his legacy as an advocate for higher education.

His Highness also visited the University of Exeter in 2012, where he met the late Queen Elizabeth during the inauguration of a new student forum building, further strengthening the ties between the Ruler of Sharjah and the university.

The ‘Scientific Degree’ project is part of a broader effort by the Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi Centre to highlight His Highness’s vast intellectual and cognitive contributions. The Centre has also launched the “Story of an Award” initiative, which seeks to honor and showcase the many distinguished awards and accolades that His Highness has received over the years.

This initiative is designed not only to recognize the academic accomplishments of the Ruler of Sharjah but also to inspire future generations to pursue excellence in scholarship, research, and intellectual endeavors. Through these efforts, the Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi Centre aims to underscore the ongoing influence of His Highness in both the academic and cultural spheres.