Through a generous initiative by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the Center for Arabic Studies was established at the University of Coimbra in Portugal. This center documents the history of teaching the Arabic language for the first time at this prestigious academic institution and opens a window for dialogue with literature, art, and creativity in the Arab world.

This initiative by His Highness aims to provide the Arabic culture with a broad space for interaction, openness, and dialogue, as it represents an essential pillar that has enriched the shared human heritage. It also offers non-Arabic speakers an opportunity to delve deeper into the profound value of Arab culture, with its rich civilizational legacy and promising prospects for the future.

In a related context, His Highness announced the project to digitize the Joanina Library, which will allow researchers and the public to access more than 30,000 rare books and manuscripts. This initiative comes as part of His Highness’s efforts to elevate the status of knowledge and make it accessible as a beacon to enlighten current and future generations on the path of building civilization.

Moreover, His Highness, the Ruler of Sharjah, presented the “Barbosa Manuscript” to the Joanina Library. It is the complete version that His Highness relied upon in editing and translating his book “A Momentous Journey” The event was described as a strategic step that strengthens cultural dialogue between the Arab and Portuguese civilizations.