All about the Mohammed bin Rashid Library in Dubai
Inaugurated in June 2022, the Mohammed bin Rashid Library is a worthy addition to the long list of ‘must-visit’ destinations in Dubai. The ambitious project was launched in 2016 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. It stands today as a cultural landmark in Dubai that will attract renowned professionals, researchers, historians, linguists, poets and book lovers from around the world.
In this article, we go in-depth on everything the breathtaking Mohammed bin Rashid Library has to offer.
ABOUT THE MOHAMMED BIN RASHID LIBRARY DUBAI
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai inaugurated the Mohammed bin Rashid Library in June 2022. This latest marvel is also the biggest library in Dubai. The amazing bookstand-shaped building is located in Al Jaddaf.
The library is eco-friendly, with solar panels mounted on the roof that fulfils around 10% of its energy requirements. The external facade of the building helps insulate the interiors and regulate the environment. The shape of the building plays a role too – minimising water consumption by up to 50%.
The moment you step inside the library, you are welcomed by massive floor to ceiling shelves, decked with books as far as you can see. The library sets the mood right from the start – quiet and peaceful – a place where you can consume and absorb the knowledge you seek.
ARCHITECTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The library’s architecture imitates ‘the Rehal’ or ‘Rehl’ which is a Turkish word for a foldable wooden book rest used by Muslims to place the holy book. The concept of ‘Rehl’ is to show respect for books as the Rehl is mostly used for placing the Holy Quran during recitation.
This recitation is believed to elevate a person’s spiritual ranks. The library’s architectural design is an homage to the same idea and looks to epitomise how the society can take advantage of the library through gaining knowledge.
WHAT’S INSIDE THE SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID LIBRARY AL JADDAF
MILLIONS OF BOOKS
Spread over seven floors, there are nine specialised libraries in the facility:
- The General Library
- The Emirates Library
- The Young Adults Library
- The Special Collection Library
- The Children’s Library
- The Media and Arts Library
- The Maps and Atlases Library
- The Periodical Library
- The Business Library
Each of these libraries houses a collection of over 1.1 million digital and printed books in multiple languages, including Arabic.
There are also 1 million audiobooks, more than six million dissertations, 75,000 videos, 73,000 music scores and over 5,000 historical journals (print/digital) stored in a 325-year archive. You can also expect 500 rare collectables and 35,000 print/digital newspapers from all across the globe.
A LIBRARY CAFE
The library houses an 800 sq. m. cafe spanning two floors. The cafe is a light, cosy and airy space that offers impressive views of the library gardens and Dubai Creek.
AMPHITHEATRE
Located on the creek side of the library complex, the amphitheatre is an outdoor venue designed to host live events. The events held there will range from cultural and music to spoken word performances.
THE LANGUAGES GARDEN
The languages garden features 60 pillars engraved with the quotes of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The quotes — in a variety of languages — cover a fascinating array of subjects such as leadership, knowledge and celebration of the written word.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE LIBRARY IN THE COMING YEARS?
The library is expected to feature these additions:
- A digital book retrieval system
- Self-service kiosks
- Smart robots to assist visitors
- A book digitisation laboratory
- Automated storage
MOHAMMED BIN RASHID LIBRARY CONTACT
- Location: Al Jaddaf, Dubai
- Contact: +971-4-317-5606
- Mohammed bin Rashid Library Website: www.mbrsg.ae/home/library.aspx
FAQs
IS MOHAMMED BIN RASHID LIBRARY OPEN?
Yes, the library is open to the public. However, certain sections of the library are still unavailable to the public and will be inaugurated at a later date.
WHEN WAS THE LIBRARY INAUGURATED?
The library was inaugurated by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE in June 2022.
IS THERE A FEE TO ENTER THE LIBRARY?
No, there is no entry fee.
IS THERE A DRESS CODE FOR THE LIBRARY?
Since the library is a place to seek knowledge, visitors are expected to dress modestly. It’s best to wear something that properly covers your shoulders and legs.
ARE CHILDREN ALLOWED TO ENTER THE LIBRARY?
No, children below five years old are not allowed to enter the premises of the library. But children older than the age of five can access the library. To accommodate these kids, there is even an indoor slide and a fine selection of books. Children of determination interested to visit the library are also welcome. There are braille books and sensory pods for them.
DOES THE LIBRARY OFFER A MEMBERSHIP?
The library is expected to launch a paid membership scheme soon. Its details haven’t been announced yet.
WHAT ARE THE LIBRARY’S TIMINGS?
The library operates from 09:00 am to 09:00 pm six days a week. You can visit the library from Monday to Saturday. It is closed on Sunday.
CAN I GET A FREE PARKING AT THE LIBRARY?
Yes, the library has an underground parking area where you can park your car for free. The area also has slots for electric vehicles.
CAN I REACH THERE BY METRO OR BUS?
Yes, Creek Metro station on the Green Line is nearest to the library. Alternatively, you can travel via the C04 bus to the Creek Metro Station and follow the signs for the library posted at the exit of the main road.
That brings an end to our guide on Mohammed bin Rashid Library. The library is a cornerstone of educational exploration and creative discourse in the UAE.
Aside from the library, Dubai has many other attractions that will interest bibliophiles. For instance, there are these other public libraries in Dubai. Whilst those who fancy a quick snack or a cup of coffee with a good book will love these library cafes in Dubai.
Those looking for a peaceful place to work in the busy city can consider heading to these work-friendly cafes in Dubai that ensure a comfortable environment with free Wi-Fi.
