Sharjah Archives showcases digital preservation at SIBF 2025

Preserving memory
Sheikh Mohammed bin Faiz Al Qasimi, Director of Research and Documentation at Sharjah Archives, stressed the institution’s commitment to realising the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, in documenting the emirate’s history and preserving its national memory. Since its establishment, the Archives have modernised their structure and workflows to meet contemporary standards in documentation and archiving. Its Research and Documentation Department produces around 40 knowledge-based publications on significant moments in the history of Sharjah and the UAE. Two new releases, containing rare documents and historical information, were launched during the fair. Plans are underway to develop a comprehensive digital archive, accessible to researchers via specialised electronic platforms, reinforcing Sharjah as a reliable centre for historical and documentary research in the region.

Smart archiving and AI integration
Ahmed Salman, documentation and studies expert, discussed the importance of modern technologies in archiving and preservation. He highlighted the integration of advanced AI tools, ensuring secure data handling and specialised workflows tailored to the Archives’ needs. The department aims to collect all materials related to Sharjah and UAE history, participating in conferences, visiting museums, and consulting international archival centres. The goal is to provide accurate, trustworthy sources digitally to researchers for scientific studies.

Oral history preservation
Ahmed Al Zarif, oral history specialist, explained that while oral history is an old concept, its modern scientific methodology developed after World War II through rigorous collection and verification of narratives. Oral history captures events as experienced by participants, particularly elderly narrators recounting pivotal community events. Challenges include conducting careful field interviews and ensuring comfortable conditions for narrators, as the quality of information depends on their confidence and sense of security. The process begins with detailed background research on the interviewee, followed by audio recording, transcription, and preservation. Advanced AI tools assist in transcription, but accuracy for local Emirati dialects or heritage place names is around 60%, necessitating human review. The ultimate objective is to digitally preserve oral heritage and make it easily accessible and reliable for researchers.