UAE Resident Sells Wife’s Gold to Preserve Arab History Through Rare Books
Mohamed Sadeq, an Egyptian collector in the UAE, sold his wife’s gold twice to acquire books documenting Arab history.
Mohamed Sadeq, an Egyptian collector residing in the UAE, has dedicated himself to preserving the history of the Arab world by collecting rare books and publications. He has gone so far as to sell his wife’s gold twice in order to expand his archive, which chronicles the histories of the UAE and other Arab nations.
Participating for the fourth consecutive year at the Sharjah International Book Fair, Sadeq represents the Arab Heritage Archive Foundation. He describes his work not merely as a business but as a responsibility inherited from his family, which he is now passing on to his son.
For Sadeq, preserving old publications is essential to maintaining evidence of how people lived, what they read, and how their societies evolved. His collection includes materials from across the Arab world and beyond, featuring publications from countries such as Egypt, Jordan, Oman, Sudan, Algeria, Tunisia, as well as from France and Britain.
Among the archive’s highlights are documents covering the Emirates before the UAE’s formation and materials tracing the nation’s development afterward. Sadeq emphasizes the importance of following a country’s story through diverse sources, languages, and viewpoints, stating that "the archive speaks."
His recent acquisitions focus on documenting the role of women in the Emirates over approximately seven decades, showcasing the historical presence of Emirati women in workplaces, leadership roles, and government positions. This collection allows readers to understand the individuals and efforts behind the country’s social transformations.
Beyond historical and political records, Sadeq notes the emotional connection found in children’s magazines such as Majid, Sindbad, Mickey, and Samir. These publications often evoke nostalgia among parents who bring their children to the book fair, creating a bridge between generations through shared cultural memories.
Sadeq also highlights the significance of Arabic language editions of children’s literature, especially those printed with vowel markings that helped young readers learn to read and engage with their culture.
He teaches his son the trade with an emphasis on understanding the material, identifying gaps in the collection, and listening to those seeking specific items. Despite the familiarity of his book fair stand, Sadeq continuously searches for new and original items, distinguishing authentic publications from reproductions.
He regards his work as a mission rather than just a commercial activity, underscoring the cultural importance of preserving Arab heritage through these historical documents.
What this means for you
- The Sharjah International Book Fair includes rare Arab publications that residents can explore to connect with regional history.
- Collectors and history enthusiasts in the UAE can find original Arabic children’s magazines that support cultural and language learning.
- Preserving and sharing Arab heritage is encouraged as a cultural responsibility, with opportunities to engage through events like the book fair.