Dubai: An impressive array of exquisite personal collectibles is being showcased this week at the “UAE Hobbies and Personal Collections” exhibition in Dubai.
Hosted by the Cultural and Scientific Association (Nadwa), the sixth edition of the event was inaugurated in Dubai by Mohammed Ahmed Al Murr, Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation.
The opening ceremony was attended by Bilal Al Budoor, Chairman of the Association, alongside Dr Salah Al Qassim, Jamal Al Khayyat, Ali Al Sharif, writer Abdul Ghaffar Hussein, Sultan Saqr Al Suwaidi, Dr. Saeed Hareb, Dr. Rafi Ghobash, and a host of enthusiasts and collectors. The exhibition, running until Saturday, presents an impressive range of items curated by Emirati hobbyists.
Visitors are invited to explore an eclectic mix of rare and unique collections, including antiques and treasures gathered from around the globe.
Highlights
Highlights of the exhibition include postal bulletins from the pre-Union era of the UAE, vintage calculators, Tawash kits, handcrafted wooden artefacts, shovels, miniature soft drink bottles, memorabilia from the Qatar World Cup, antique models from renowned world museums, matchboxes, chess sets, and keepsakes from Abu Dhabi’s participation in Expo 1970 in Osaka, Japan.
The exhibition features multiple collectibles compiled by Emirati hobbyists, giving visitors an opportunity to view an array of unusual collections ranging from antiques to pieces gathered from all around the world.
It also showcases a diverse collection of items, including mugs, printers, commemorative shields honouring the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, typewriters, souvenirs related to the late Sheikh Zayed, books on currencies, publications about Sirma water in the UAE, vintage school tools, traditional Emirati burqas, sports publications, watches bearing logos of Emirati entities, Sharjah Club memorabilia, early UAE publications, print copies of Gulf News paper from earlier decades, and official gifts presented to post offices across the Arab world.
Preserving history
Mohammed Al Murr emphasised that the growing number of participants and the expanding diversity of contributions in each edition reflect a strong interest in collecting, which serves as a form of preserving history through these items, whether books, personal tools, or various memorabilia. He expressed his hope for the continued success and vibrancy of the exhibition.
Bilal Al Bodour highlighted that this year’s edition is distinguished by its diverse array of collectibles, including several rare pieces that significantly enhance the exhibition’s value. He noted that the event serves as an excellent platform for supporting hobbyists and collectors, encouraging their passion for preserving unique items, and inspiring future generations to cultivate their own interests. Featuring 25 participants, this edition includes a mix of returning contributors and first-time exhibitors. The showcased items offer visitors a rich experience filled with depth, surprise, excitement, and novelty, ensuring an engaging and memorable exhibition for all.
Unique opportunity
Al Bodour added that the exhibition offers a unique opportunity to explore the cultures of various peoples and gain insights into their shared sentiments and experiences. He noted that the event provides audiences with moments of joy and delightful engagement. This year’s edition features 25 participants, including returning exhibitors and newcomers, showcasing an impressive variety of collectibles and hobbies. The range of items reflects a blend of depth, surprise, lightheartedness, and excitement, creating a captivating and enriching experience for all visitors.
Ahmed Saif Abdullah Al Hassawi showcases a collection of stamp newsletters issued before the establishment of the United Arab Emirates. These newsletters were released by the post offices of Dubai, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. They served to inform philatelic collectors worldwide about the release dates and details of new postal collections, enabling them to request these items directly from the respective post offices.
