Paris Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi hosts Golden Age of Arab and Islamic Science exhibition

The announcement came during a press conference held at the university headquarters on Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi. The exhibition will shed light on a selection of scientific and intellectual accomplishments that Islamic civilisations became famous for; accomplishments that went on to have a huge impact on civilisations across the world, including the study of the sky, the earth, humanity, and the arts and sciences. The exhibition, being held for the first time in the UAE, reveals fascinating insights into an era of ground-breaking discoveries and innovations by Arab and Muslim thought-leaders in the scientific arena. The period between the 8th and 15th centuries was characterised by numerous intellectual breakthroughs that still have enormous significance in modern science. The exhibition is expected to attract the academic elite, particularly the scientific fraternity, as well as high profile representatives of diplomatic missions. Over 200 artefacts and manuscripts will bring this productive era to life, and visitors will be transported back in time through audio-visual interactions and advanced computer-generated simulations of what life was like. Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Director-General of Abu Dhabi Education Council, ADEC, and Vice President of the Management Council of Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, elaborated, “This scientific and cultural showcase proves that the Arab world has a proud heritage of intellectual and humanitarian contributions to mankind. These profound innovations still resonate in the academic communities of the entire world. I call on all students from all schools and universities in the UAE to come and rediscover the pioneering accomplishments of our ancestors, so that we can reclaim our rightful position as the global pacesetter and pathfinder in the academic sphere, while inspiring the rest of the world to follow in our footsteps.” Commenting on the exhibition, Prof. Eric Fouache, Vice-Chancellor of Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, explained, “We are nurturing a greater level of awareness and appreciation for the remarkable contributions made by Arab and Muslim thinkers who set the foundations for modern science and art. By hosting this exhibition, we will re-awaken the same unquenchable thirst for knowledge in the minds of modern students that led to these revolutionary breakthroughs.” He added, ” The Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi is bridging between civilizations by showcasing the connection between ancient and modern thinkers. This will enrich the world’s understanding of contemporary challenges by re-examining the wealth of knowledge that we inherited from the constellation of early scientists.” A series of scientific lectures, seminars and workshops have been organised to supplement the insights gained from the exhibition, raising awareness and interest among students. The lectures will be delivered by a line-up of internationally acclaimed researchers, academics and prominent industry personalities from the UAE, France, Lebanon and the US, among others. According to Dr. Fatima Al-Shamsi, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Administrative Affairs for Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, “Hosting this exhibition for the very first time in the UAE is a clear indication of this country’s ability to host high profile events of global significance. At Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, we are immensely proud to embrace a scientific and cultural event of this magnitude and importance, particularly since the scientific advancements being showcased have had a major impact on scholars at the world’s leading universities. We have no doubt that this exploration and rediscovery of Islamic innovations will positively impact the world of academia, igniting a rethink and a shift of attitudes about the role of Arabs and Muslims in scientific and cultural advancement.