Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Jarwan: Books and Libraries

Abstract

This item presents an interview-based profile of Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Jarwan, highlighting his personal and cultural journey and his relationship with books and libraries in the United Arab Emirates. The interview traces his early life, educational and social formation, and his early connection with reading, scholarly gatherings, and travel, before moving to a discussion of his private library, its development, and its holdings in religion, literature, history, and audiovisual materials. It also shows the library’s cultural role as an open space for readers and those interested in books and knowledge.

The interview further records Al-Jarwan’s views on private libraries in the UAE and provides examples of notable private libraries in Sharjah, Dubai, and Ras Al Khaimah. It also discusses his publications, which document aspects of local social and cultural life, including marriage, work, youth, reading, and religious values. The piece therefore combines documentary and cultural dimensions and presents an Emirati profile strongly associated with books through collecting, writing, and service to heritage and public awareness.