His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi marked a significant cultural milestone in Lisbon by signing the Portuguese edition of his acclaimed historical work, The Portuguese in the Sea of Oman. The event highlighted the deep and enduring historical ties between the Arabian Peninsula and Portugal, reaffirming Sharjah’s commitment to scholarship, cultural dialogue, and historical preservation.
Held in Lisbon, the signing drew academics, diplomats, publishers, and cultural figures, reflecting broad interest in the shared maritime history explored in the book. The Portuguese edition makes the work accessible to new audiences, offering a meticulously researched account of centuries of encounters, trade, conflict, and cooperation between Portuguese explorers and the peoples of the Gulf and the Sea of Oman.
Originally published after years of archival research, the book challenges simplified colonial narratives by presenting historical records from regional and European sources. It documents how these interactions shaped political, economic, and cultural developments across the Arabian Peninsula, leaving legacies that continue to influence the region today.
Observers noted that the signing carries symbolic weight, taking place in Portugal at a time of renewed cultural exchange between the Arab world and Europe. The event underscores the role of historical scholarship in building mutual understanding and correcting historical misconceptions through evidence-based research.
Sheikh Dr Sultan, a renowned historian and author, has long emphasized the importance of making primary-source research widely available across languages. The Portuguese edition aligns with Sharjah’s broader cultural mission to promote intellectual exchange and ensure that regional history is told with accuracy and depth.
Cultural leaders attending the event praised the work for fostering dialogue between nations connected by maritime history. As the book reaches Portuguese-speaking readers, it is expected to contribute meaningfully to academic discourse and public understanding of the shared histories linking Oman, the Gulf, and Portugal.
