Eight Researchers Awarded Grants from Zayed National Museum Research Fund

The Zayed National Museum has awarded research grants to eight scholars from the UAE, Italy, India, and the United States as part of its annual Research Fund initiative.

The Research Fund, with an annual budget of Dh1 million, is one of the region’s most significant funding programs dedicated to supporting studies on the UAE’s culture, history, and heritage. This year, the selected projects explore diverse topics, including organic residue analysis, native tree studies, modern architecture, pottery usage, and digital preservation of rock inscriptions.

Promoting Cultural and Historical Research

The selection panel reviewed 79 applications from researchers worldwide before selecting the final eight recipients. The initiative aligns with the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, emphasizing the importance of preserving and understanding the UAE’s rich heritage.

Mohammad Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, highlighted the museum’s commitment to heritage preservation. “Through the Zayed National Museum Research Fund grants, we reaffirm our dedication to safeguarding our past while inspiring future generations,” he stated.

Dr. Peter Magee, Director of the Zayed National Museum, emphasized that these research projects will enhance knowledge, foster community engagement, and utilize scientific methods to deepen understanding of the UAE’s history.

Meet the Grant Recipients

• Dr. Fatima Al Mazrouei (UAE) – Head of Historical Archives at the National Library and Archives, researching "The History of Formal Education in Abu Dhabi: A Study of Qasr Al Hosn Documents (1957–66)."

• Fatima Al Shehhi & Hessa Al Shehhi (UAE) – Researchers at the Department of Antiquities and Museums, Ras Al Khaimah, studying pottery remains and their historical significance.

• Marwan Al Falasi (UAE) – Compiling an encyclopedia on the UAE’s native trees, analyzing ancient and seasonal flora.

• Dr. Khaled Al Awadhi (UAE) – Investigating modern architecture in the UAE and its place on the global architectural landscape.

• Dr. Michele Degli Esposti (Italy) – Studying ancient tower structures and burial practices in Southeastern Arabia.

• Dr. Akshita Suryanarayan (India) – Conducting organic residue analysis to understand long-term pottery usage in the region.

• Dr. Yasser Elsheshtawy (US) – Researching the historical development of Emirati national housing projects.

• Dr. William Zimmerle (US) – Exploring rock inscriptions in Southern and Eastern Arabia, focusing on their artistic and cultural significance.

Advancing UAE’s Cultural and Scientific Legacy

The Zayed National Museum, currently under construction in Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Cultural District, is envisioned as a center for historical research and cultural preservation. By funding scholarly work, the museum aims to contribute to the UAE’s intellectual and historical legacy while promoting academic exchange on an international level.