Dr. ABDULLA MAJED AL ALI

Conference Presentations

His Excellency Dr. Abdulla Majed Al Ali, Director General of the National Archives and Library of the United Arab Emirates, has participated as a speaker in many prestigious international conferences and forums.

He defended the future of knowledge institutions and the integration of artificial intelligence into archival sciences, and stressed the importance of preserving cultural heritage in the digital age.

Vision & Strategic Leadership

As Director General of the National Archives and Library of the Emirates, he has the honor of leading initiatives that enhance access to knowledge, integrate artificial intelligence-based solutions, and place libraries and archives at the forefront of technological innovation. His work is guided by a clear vision for the future of knowledge organizations, focusing on the following points:

Strengthening International Collaboration

He believes that knowledge does not recognize borders. He is committed to building strong global partnerships that promote cross-cultural knowledge exchange, research collaboration, and policy innovation in the field of library science. By promoting international cooperation, we together strive to advance archival science, modernize public access to information, and create knowledge systems that are inclusive and accessible to all.

Digital Transformation & AI Integration

Libraries and archives must adapt to the digital age while maintaining their fundamental purpose—preserving, protecting, and providing access to knowledge. I am a strong advocate for the use of artificial intelligence, big data, and advanced digital preservation techniques to enhance the management and accessibility of information.

• Implementing AI-driven research tools to modernize knowledge retrieval and digitization.
• Strengthening cybersecurity and digital governance frameworks in libraries and archival institutions.
• Ensuring historical records and national archives remain accessible through advanced digitization efforts and open-access knowledge initiatives.

A Vision Ready for the Future

I am driven by the belief that libraries and archives are not just institutions of the past—they are key players in shaping the future. My commitment is to ensure that knowledge remains accessible, protected, and continually evolving in an ever-changing world. Through innovation, collaboration, and leadership, I strive to create a global knowledge ecosystem that empowers individuals, preserves cultural identity, and drives intellectual progress for generations to come.

Shaping the Future of Library Leadership

It is with great honor and a profound sense of responsibility that I announce my candidacy for the election of President Elect of IFLA. I do so with a strong sense of the history of this remarkable organization, and with a tremendous ambition for its future. I am currently the Director-General of the National Library and Archives of the UAE (2021 – present), and I am pleased to have the full support of my institution and my government to undertake the duties and functions of this peak office for IFLA.

Vision for IFLA

For almost 100 years, IFLA has been the creative force for progress and innovation in the world of libraries. Since its inception, it has played a pivotal role in modernizing the public function of libraries, ensuring that they remain relevant and indispensable institutions within our communities. The continuous evolution of the librarian profession owes much to the dedication, expertise and creativity of IFLA’s members and volunteers; this has enabled us to anticipate and adapt to the myriad societal changes that have unfolded over the past century.

Challenges Ahead

As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, libraries face unprecedented challenges. We are witnessing a changing attitude of many societies toward knowledge; whereby it is being acquired in a more casual, transactional way, reflecting the ‘platformalisation’ of information that delivers short-form videos or micro-learning offerings. On another front, the world is awakening to the importance of First Nations knowledge, which is still largely unwritten. We are at the beginning of a global AI phenomenon that promises to empower humanity, and yet carries serious risks of misinformation and an increasing digital divide.

My Commitment

In presenting my candidacy for President Elect, I commit to the following:

• I will work to ensure all voices across our community are heard and respected.
• I commit to diversity, equity, and inclusion within our profession and our institutions.
• I will prioritize the development of programs and partnerships that enhance the impact of libraries in underserved communities.
• I will maintain a focus on the development of our profession, maintaining our leading edge in the areas of technical literacy, standards, and professional standing within the wider information sector.
• I will ensure that as an organization we maintain the highest standards of governance, embracing principles of integrity, transparency, and participation while assuring the sustainability of our organization and its operations.

Conclusion

I believe that with my professional experience, combined with my commitment for the success of our global community, and with the institutional support of the NLA UAE, I am well qualified to assume the role of President IFLA. I sincerely hope I can receive your support and trust, and I would be pleased to hear from any member who may wish to discuss any aspect of my candidacy as you consider your vote.