Ibn Majid’s maritime genius on display at HoW’s exhibition

One of the key exhibits is A Memorandum for Historians on the Innocence of Ibn Majid by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. The scholarly work draws on a rare manuscript of Vasco da Gama’s 1497 voyage, located in Porto’s public library, to refute claims that Ibn Majid assisted the Portuguese in reaching India. Featuring a Portuguese text translation and in-depth analysis, the 87-page document offers vital insights that reshape historical narratives and vindicate the legendary Arab navigator.

The second document on display is a manuscript titled A Collection of Treatises on Marine Science, authored by Ibn Majid himself and housed at the King Faisal Centre for Research and Islamic Studies in Saudi Arabia. This manuscript features a series of scientific treatises showcasing Ibn Majid’s advanced knowledge of navigation, ship movement, and cartography, including his innovations in the use of the compass and astrolabe.

Born in Julfar (now Ras Al Khaimah) into a family of expert seafarers, Ibn Majid spent over 40 years navigating the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, and Red Sea, documenting his expertise in treatises, poetry, and prose. His innovations in navigation cemented his legacy in Arab and Islamic maritime history. His works became key references for global seafaring, shaping safe maritime routes and influencing European, especially Portuguese, navigators during the Renaissance.