Sharjah Ruler Opens First Arabic Studies Centre in Portugal

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the Centre for Arabic Studies at the University of Coimbra on Friday. H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, also attended the ceremony.

The centre is the first of its kind in Portugal, dedicated to teaching the Arabic language and culture. Situated at one of Europe’s oldest and most respected universities, it will act as a bridge between the Arab and European worlds, promoting cultural understanding and academic exchange.

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Launch of Joanina Digital Library and Historic Manuscript

During the visit, Sheikh Sultan also launched the Joanina Digital Library and gifted the historic Barbosa Manuscript, which dates back to 1565. In addition, he signed copies of his book “A Momentous Journey”, published in Arabic, English, and Portuguese.

Following the unveiling of a commemorative plaque, Sheikh Sultan toured the centre’s facilities and met with students, praising their dedication to learning the Arabic language, arts, and culture.

Expanding Arab Culture Globally

Sheikh Sultan emphasized that the new centre reflects Sharjah’s vision to expand the global presence of Arab culture and foster dialogue between the East and West. The centre will offer:

• Specialised Arabic language programmes

• Advanced courses in grammar and calligraphy

• Seminars and forums connecting Arab and European writers, poets, and creatives

The Barbosa Manuscript: A Historical Treasure

In his speech, Sheikh Sultan recalled his long research journey to trace the Barbosa Manuscript, written by Portuguese officer Duarte Barbosa in the 16th century. Missing for nearly a century, the manuscript was acquired by Sheikh Sultan in 2012.

He noted that Barbosa’s work provides an honest record of the Arabian Gulf and surrounding regions, correcting distorted historical narratives. Publishing “A Momentous Journey” in three languages aims to restore historical accuracy and provide future generations with authentic knowledge for intercultural dialogue.

Sheikh Sultan said:

"Culture may not change geography, but it changes the way we view it. It may not erase borders, but it can turn them into living bridges. Culture does not change history, but it changes the way we read it."

University Praises Sharjah’s Cultural Initiatives

Amílcar Valcão, Rector of the University of Coimbra, praised Sharjah’s contributions to global culture and recalled awarding Sheikh Sultan an honorary doctorate in 2018. He highlighted the university’s cooperation with the Sharjah Book Authority in digitising manuscripts and launching the Middle East Digital Collection, named the Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi Collection.

Sheikh Sultan also toured the UNESCO-recognised Joanina Library, which houses 30,000 rare items, and observed digitisation work uncovering previously unknown manuscripts.

High-Level Delegation Accompanies Sheikh Sultan

The Ruler of Sharjah was accompanied by:

• Ahmed Abdulrahman Al Mahmoud, UAE Ambassador to Portugal

• Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of Sharjah Book Authority

• Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of Sharjah Institute for Heritage

• Sultan Al Ameemi, Chairman of Emirates Writers Union

• Mohamed Hassan Khalaf, Director-General of Sharjah Broadcasting Authority