The National Library and Archives receives senior citizens whom it holds in high esteem

In collaboration with the Department of Community Development in Abu Dhabi, the National Library and Archives organized a visit for the senior citizens and residents and volunteers to its headquarters within the context of the Generations Journey program. Historical photos of the some of the UAE’s leaders with senior citizens were presented, and a dialogue session was held between senior citizens and the youths. The visitors toured Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Hall.
This visit was organized pursuant to the NLA’s role in enhancing social responsibility and in appreciation of senior citizens and their notable contributions to the building and development of our homeland as well as due to the importance of the Generations Journey program, which aims to connect the youths with the elderly and accordingly enriching the youths’ experiences.
During the visit, A lecture was delivered by Hend Al Zaabi, Educational Programs Specialist at the NLA. She said: “The late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan established a nation based on happiness and citizen welfare. He took care of the young and adults, especially the elderly who received his respect, love and kindness and were provided with decent life.”
Hend Al Zaabi reported that H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, referred to the UAE elderly as senior citizens in recognition of their experience, giving and dedication to the UAE.
She highlighted the UAE government’s interest in senior citizens, including the provision of health care, social services, initiatives and other services.
The senior citizens had the opportunity to bring back their memories of education, pearl diving, agriculture and fishing. They pointed out that these environment-based professions were their source of living, and they reflect the Emirati people’s determination to face challenges. 
Later, visitors made a tour of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Hall, which highlights the past, documents the present and predicts the future. It contains the latest innovative technologies and presentation methods in order to present visitors with a knowledge capsule that enhances belonging to homeland and loyalty to the wise leadership, fosters national identity among generations and fascinates visitors with the UAE’s development and prosperity.