Issue 333 of Al Rafid Magazine released
Honoring Sharjah's Cultural Leadership
A major highlight of this issue is the honoring of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who received the
"Arab Cultural Merit Medal"
from ALECSO during a ceremony in Tunisia. The award recognizes His Highness's five decades of contributions to Arab and Islamic culture, including initiatives like the
"Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language,"
the establishment of cultural centers in Europe and Africa, and his ongoing support for theatrical and artistic institutions.
Sharjah-Oman cultural ties
Under the theme
"A Window to Reflect on a Shared Historical Heritage,"
the issue also features the participation of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, at the opening of the
"Masterpieces of Islamic Arts"
exhibition at the National Museum of Oman. This event reflects the deep historical relationship between the UAE and Oman.
Innovation and excellence in governance
The issue highlights His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed's launch of the
"Institutional Excellence Award,"
which aims to foster innovation across both public and private sectors. It also covers his recognition of leading initiatives in governance and smart services.
Sheikha Bodour's role in cultural advancement
Special focus is given to the efforts of
Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi
, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, in advancing the emirate's cultural influence. The issue features:
Her inauguration of the
fourth International Distributors Conference
, attended by 750 professionals from 94 countries
Her patronage of the
"Chapters of Islamic Art"
exhibition
Her launch of the
"Africa and the Arabian Peninsula"
symposium in partnership with global organisations
Scientific and academic achievements
The issue also showcases Sharjah's expanding contributions to science and education, including:
The launch of the
Al Qasimi Astronomical Observatory
, a new hub for space research
The
University of Sharjah's collaborations
with the Diplomatic Academy and Ministry of Climate Change
American University of Sharjah students
winning international architectural awards
The
Spring Life Skills Forum
, which supports youth creativity and innovation
Sharjah: A global cultural vision
Through its diverse content,
Al Rafid
Issue 333 reaffirms Sharjah's vision as a hub for creativity, committed to preserving cultural heritage while embracing modernity. It reflects the lasting influence of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah in shaping the future of Arab culture and fostering global cultural dialogue.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Gulf Today
3 hours ago
- Gulf Today
Holy Quran Academy signs scientific and research partnership with University of Sharjah
The Holy Quran Academy in Sharjah has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Sharjah. The agreement aims to develop and advance academic studies, scientific research, and joint research programs in Quranic studies, the sciences of interpretation, and the various modes of Quranic recitation. It also seeks to expand opportunities for the exchange of scientific expertise, contributing to the preparation of national professionals capable of leading and innovating in this field, in alignment with Sharjah's vision of building a sustainable, knowledge-based society. The scientific partnership signing ceremony was held at the Holy Quran Academy, with Dr. Eng. Khalifa Musabah Al-Tunaiji, Chairman of the Academy, signing on its behalf. Representing the University of Sharjah was Professor Dr. Esameldin Agmy, the University's Chancellor. The event was attended by Dr. Abdullah Khalaf Al-Hosani, Secretary-General of the Academy; Professor Dr. Maamar Bettayeb, Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies; as well as several academic and research leaders and department heads from both institutions. This strategic partnership holds great significance for both parties, as it aims to enhance academic research and studies in Quranic interpretation and related sciences. It also includes the organization of conferences and scholarly forums to highlight the latest developments and best practices in Quranic studies. Furthermore, the partnership encompasses training courses and workshops designed to improve the quality of scientific research at both institutions. It offers valuable training opportunities for students of Sharia and Islamic studies, facilitates the exchange of academic and practical expertise in postgraduate studies, and promotes the use of artificial intelligence in the service of the Holy Quran. His Excellency Dr. Eng. Khalifa Musabah Al-Tunaiji, Chairman of the Holy Quran Academy, stated: 'This scientific partnership with the University of Sharjah opens new horizons for the advancement of Quranic studies, research, and academic publishing in line with global best practices—especially as the University of Sharjah is a leading educational institution ranked 53rd worldwide in research quality.' He added: 'This partnership will play an active role in advancing Quranic studies and research, while also strengthening the Academy's position as a global scholarly center for Quranic sciences and research.' He emphasized that the collaboration supports joint research and serves as a strong catalyst for launching unique scientific initiatives in the service of the Holy Quran and its sciences. He also stressed the importance of forming a dedicated working team to oversee educational initiatives and further develop the strategic partnership, with the aim of enhancing Sharjah's scientific and knowledge-driven role. The initiative also seeks to promote the global dissemination of Islamic heritage, in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, in advancing scientific research. Dr. Al-Tunaiji affirmed that distinguished scholarly work and its documentation represent a valuable legacy for communities and future generations. Professor Dr. Esameldin Agmy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah, expressed his deep pride in signing the cooperation agreement with the Holy Quran Academy. He noted that the agreement, under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, adds great value to the collaboration. He affirmed that the University is home to a distinguished group of faculty members, researchers, and specialists across various fields, including the fundamentals of religion, jurisprudence, Quranic sciences, linguistics, and modern technologies. He noted that the collaboration will contribute to leveraging technology and artificial intelligence in supporting Quranic sciences—particularly in recitation and interpretation—enhancing accessibility and promoting global dissemination. Dr. Agmy emphasized that the agreement will strengthen scientific research and specialized studies in the field of the Holy Quran while reinforcing joint efforts between the two institutions. Professor Dr. Esameldin Agmy, along with his accompanying delegation, was also briefed on the academic and research contributions of the Holy Quran Academy. He was introduced to its efforts in promoting the values of tolerance and the beauty of Islam through its three main pillars: — The Sharjah Global Digital Quran Recitation Platform, which includes participants from 172 countries and facilitates the granting of Quranic certifications in various modes of recitation. — The Academy's commitment to Quranic research and studies as a top priority. — The Quranic museums, which showcase the history of the Holy Quran's transcription, rare manuscripts, Quranic sciences, renowned scholars, and the covering of the Holy Kaaba. The Chancellor expressed his admiration for the Holy Quran Academy, praising it as a cultural and intellectual landmark dedicated to the preservation, study, and promotion of the Holy Quran and its sciences.
Sharjah 24
16 hours ago
- Sharjah 24
UOS signs MOU with Holy Quran Academy
Enhancing the noble mission of the Academy Ajami confirmed that this partnership would integrate the efforts of the Academy with the academic and technical expertise of the University of Sharjah, including specialists in Quranic sciences, linguistics, and technology, to enhance the noble mission of the Academy and disseminate it locally, regionally, and globally. Supporting scientific research and joint programmes This collaboration aims to strengthen scientific research and joint programmes, utilizing modern technology in the service of the Quran and its sciences, in line with Sharjah's vision as the capital of Islamic culture and knowledge.
Zawya
20 hours ago
- Zawya
Oman's HyDuqm hydrogen project eyes FID in 2027
MUSCAT: Hydrogen Duqm LLC (HyDuqm), one of nine large-scale green hydrogen and ammonia projects currently in early development in Oman, anticipates a Final Investment Decision (FID) in 2027, with production slated to commence in 2030. HyDuqm represents a joint venture set up by six leading global companies comprising POSCO Holdings, Samsung Engineering Company Limited, Korea East-West Power Company Limited, Korea Southern Power Company Limited, MESCAT Middle East DMCC (a subsidiary of ENGIE from France), and FutureTech Energy Ventures Limited (FTEV) - the clean energy arm of Thai energy conglomerate PTTEP. In 2023, the JV partners won a concession from Hydrom, the master-planner of Oman's green hydrogen (GH2) economy, to develop a GH2 project in Block Z1-02 in Al Wusta Governorate. The project targets an annual capacity of 1.2 million tonnes of green ammonia, focusing on clean energy production from green hydrogen. According to PTTEP subsidiary FTEV, the partners of HyDuqm are currently 'in the process of assessing wind and solar energy potential (Renewable Resource Assessment) and conducting a feasibility study to evaluate the investment value and profitability of the project prior starting engineering design'. Significantly, FTEV's role as a JV partner in HyDuqm is the latest addition to parent organization PTTEP's expanding presence in Oman's energy industry. 'This investment supports the growth of new businesses aligning with the Company's business plan and provides an opportunity to apply knowledge and experience in green hydrogen production in Thailand, in line with future energy policies,' PTTEP noted in its recently issued 2024 Annual Report. 'PTTEP completed the installation of wind and solar potential measurement stations and has begun collecting data to support the project operations. The ongoing feasibility study phase includes geographical, geotechnical, and hydrological assessments, as well as a Preliminary Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (Pre-ESIA),' it further stated. The feasibility study, according to the Thai state-owned energy giant, will also help determine the amount of required capital expenditure and economic return before proceeding to the engineering design phase in 2025. The Annual Report also shed light on the performance of PTTEP's portfolio of investments in the upstream and midstream segments of Oman's oil and gas sector. One of its largest investments is in Block 61 in central Oman, which accounts for around a third of Oman's gas production. PTTEP owns a 20 per cent interest in the BP-operated concession. In 2024, natural gas and condensate production averaged 1,511 MMSCFD (approximately 267,746 barrels of oil equivalent per day - BOED) and 56,087 bpd respectively. Production from Block 6 – the largest producing oil asset in central Oman – averaged 66,490 bpd of crude oil in 2024. PTTEP Group holds a 2 per cent participating interest in this project, with Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) as the operator. In south Oman, PTTEP Group holds a 1 per cent participating interest in Block 53 (also known as the Mukhaizna field) with Occidental as the operator. In 2024, the average crude oil production was 75,227 bpd. Recently, Oman's Ministry of Energy and Minerals signed an agreement to extend the Block 53 Exploration and Production Sharing Agreement (EPSA) with Occidental and its partners until 2050. Rounding off its upstream assets is Block 12, a large onshore natural gas exploration block in central Oman. PTTEP Group holds a 20 per cent participating interest in the project, with TotalEnergies as the operator. In 2024, two exploration wells were completed, while geological and geophysical studies are currently underway. PTTEP subsidiary PTTEP Oman E&P Corporation (POC), formerly Partex Oman Corporation, also has a 2 percent stake in Oman LNG LLC and an indirect 0.7 per cent stake in Qalhat LNG. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
