Sharjah gives rare manuscripts of Ibn Battua, Ibn Majid to Morocco

As part of Sharjah’s Guest of Honour presence at the 30th Rabat International Book and Publishing Fair (RIBF), House of Wisdom (HoW) concluded its participation with a thoughtfully curated cultural showcase highlighting the rich tradition of Islamic travelogues. Featuring rare manuscripts and exhibits, the experience celebrated the legendary journeys of Ahmad Ibn Majid and Ibn Battuta — two of the Muslim world’s most renowned explorers.

The HoW booth attracted notable attention, including a visit from Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, accompanied by His Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid, and Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority. HoW Executive Director Marwa Al Aqroubi welcomed the dignitaries, offering insights into the showcased works that reflected the Arab world’s enduring contributions to travelogues and maritime navigation.

The booth also welcomed distinguished guests, including Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman Municipality and Planning Department and Vice Chairman of Ajman University's Board of Trustees, and Aawatif Hayar, Moroccan Minister of Solidarity, Social Integration and the Family.

Rare manuscripts

House of Wisdom showcased a collection of rare manuscripts and books that highlighted the contributions of notable Arab explorers and navigators, including Ahmad Ibn Majid and Ibn Battuta. Among the exhibits was a manuscript titled “The Verses of Ibn Majid,” a rare collection of poems, verses, and letters by Ibn Majid on maritime literature, offering significant scientific value due to its previously unpublished poetic texts.

The exhibition also featured “Memorandum for Historians on the Innocence of Ibn Majid,” a book authored by His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. The book provides documented evidence that exonerates Ibn Majid from claims that he assisted the Portuguese in reaching and occupying India.

Also on display was a rare manuscript of Ibn Battuta’s “A Masterpiece to Those Who Contemplate the Wonders of Cities and the Marvels of Traveling,” documenting his 30-year journey across 44 countries. First printed in 1933 by the Amiriya Press in Cairo, the two-volume work has been translated into Portuguese, French, English, and partially into German.

The participation further strengthens the HoW’s efforts to enhance Sharjah's international cultural presence and highlight Arab and Islamic heritage through its evolving themes, including travelogues as a gateway to understanding civilisations and fostering cultural dialogue.

A bridge of cultural and intellectual exchange

Marwa Al Aqroubi said: “Morocco is a timeless crossroads of Arab-Islamic heritage — a living bridge of culture and thought. At RIBF, House of Wisdom continues this dialogue, uniting shared values beyond borders.”

She added: “Sharjah’s designation as UNESCO World Book Capital in 2019 marked a turning point in championing knowledge, embodied in the founding of House of Wisdom. With Rabat stepping into the same role in 2026, our cultural ties grow even stronger, reflecting the enduring commitment of the UAE and Morocco to champion culture and preserve our shared human heritage.”

The HoW booth hosted a session titled “Chapters of Islamic Art: Travelogues – Exploring the Legacy of Ahmad ibn Majid and Ibn Battuta.” The session highlighted the lasting impact of Islamic travelogues, with insights from Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, and Sheikha Al Mutairi, Head of National Culture and Documents at Juma Al Majid Center. They discussed the motivations behind Muslim travels and the crucial contributions of Ibn Majid and Ibn Battuta in documenting their journeys.

Additionally, HoW showcased its flagship initiatives, including the second edition of “Chapters of Islamic Art,” currently running in Sharjah until 5 July with the theme “Travelogues.” The exhibition features the origins of geographic documentation, Idrisi’s medieval maps, ancient navigation tools, and rare manuscripts and books. Visitors to the RIBF were also invited to experience the exhibition through an immersive, interactive virtual tour.