I’ve recently visited the newly opened Mohammed Bin Rashid Library, and want to share some of my photos in this post. If you know nothing about this eye-catching 7-story structure built in the shape of traditional wooden lectern used to hold the Quran, it means you’ve never been to Al Jaddaf area in Dubai. Let’s explore the location!
Al Jaddaf is a mixed-use area with residential buildings, hotels, waterfront promenades, harbours and cultural centers that overlooks Dubai Creek waters. Firstly I noticed the construction of this unique library a couple of years ago during my shopping at Dubai Festival City Mall, and since this moment I couldn’t wait to see it inside.
The Library has no entry fee for visitors. However, it’s recommended to book your visit in advance through its official website. If you want to borrow a book and read it at home, you are required to be a registered member. I’m not quite sure about membership terms and conditions, but they may ask you for a small deposit. Without a membership you can freely read books inside the Library as well as use reading spaces with comfortable sittings and tables with a nice calm atmosphere. Study rooms and reading spaces have power points to charge a laptop, and you will also have an access to printers and photocopiers.
Keep in mind that you are required to wear appropriate and modest clothes to visit the Library. I heard that men in shorts and women in too short dresses were not allowed to enter the building. Children below 5 years are also not allowed to enter.
What will you find inside? Ten main library collections: The General Library, Young Adult Library, Children's Library, Information Centre, Map and Atlas Library, Media and Arts Library, Business Library, Emirates Library, Periodicals Library and a Special Collections Library. There are also conference and meeting rooms, auditorium with 550 seats, exhibitions and a cafe where you can drink coffee with sandwiches and desserts.
I failed to visit the Treasures of the Library Exhibition on the 7th floor as I had no pre-booking. It has a collection of ancient manuscripts and rare editions, I will definitely come back to look at them. But I had a chance to explore a temporary photography exhibition featuring the UAE in different times. It was so fascinating for me as a photographer to look at these photos that reflect cultural and historical values.
The Library uses the latest technologies including artificial intelligence, automated storage, electronic book retrieval system, self-service stations and virtual reality technologies. I even saw a robot inside the Children's Library! I’m a Dubai expat for so many years, but I still can’t believe that the future is already here. I found the information that the building receives 10% of its energy from solar panels. They also reduced water consumption by 50%, and water from air conditioners is re-used to irrigate green spaces.
I really enjoyed my first visit to the Library, and I’m about to book my second one. Hope you liked my photos I captured during this visit.
