About the exhibition
Stamps have long served as tools for nation-building and as a means of honouring significant historical moments. In their miniature forms, each imprinted stamp offers a visual narrative, capturing and defining what a nation stands for.
Imprinted Narratives: Stories of a Nation through Postal Stamps presented four distinct stories told through the stamps of the Emirates, each unique yet bound by a shared purpose and spirit of celebration. Embedded in these stamps is a chronicle of the nation’s dedication of resources, investment, and human effort toward excellence in education, science, environmental stewardship, and global partnerships.
Through these scenes, viewers were invited to witness the foundational steps and progress that define the Emirates’ path to achievement, woven together with a narrative of unity and pride.
Rashed Almulla is the Founder of MABNAI and an independent urban researcher specialising in urban history and planning. Based in Dubai, Almulla employs multiple mediums focusing on the built environment through exhibitions, symposiums and research contributions. He directed the Future of Gulf Housing Symposium (’23) and curated Spaces that Remain exhibition (2022-2023) at Bayt AlMamzar. Almulla holds an MSc in Regional and Urban Planning from the London School of Economics.
Thematics
Outer Space and Beyond!
Some might assume that the UAE’s drive to explore and venture into outer space is a recent interest. However, a look into postal history reveals otherwise: since 1965, the Emirates have celebrated humanity’s expeditions into space through commemorative stamps. These early tributes laid the groundwork for the country’s commitment to space exploration many years later.
On the World Stage
The United Arab Emirates has always strived to position itself as an interlinked and globally connected nation. Before unification, individual Emirates issued stamps commemorating global events and even participated in some, like Abu Dhabi’s involvement in the Osaka World Expo 1970. These stamps reflected an awareness of global significance, aimed to educate locals on international affairs, and demonstrated a commitment to global engagement.
Our Land, a Treasure
The UAE has long prioritised environment and sustainability, deeply rooted in Sheikh Zayed’s vision of greening the desert, planting trees, and exploring innovative conservation methods. This commitment is also reflected in the nation’s stamps, which serve as symbols of its dedication to environmental preservation and public awareness. This collection highlights efforts surrounding flora, fauna, environmental policies, national priorities, and key sustainability events.
Celebration of a Union
The United Arab Emirates tells a remarkable story of unity among seven emirates. Pictorial stamps capture elements of this journey, showcasing leaders, iconic landmarks, and symbols of a modern society dedicated to serving its citizens and youth. Each year, stamps also feature drawings by children, often chosen through school competitions, underscoring the UAE’s commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering national pride on a global stage. This initiative reflects the enduring link between national priorities and future generations.
Exhibitions
