The Noor Ali Rashid Archives stands as a testament to a visionary legacy, preserving the artistry and historical significance of Noor Ali Rashid’s work.
This archive, born out of a personal commitment in 2008, is not merely a collection of images but a carefully curated chronicle of the UAE’s transformation - a rich, visual history capturing the resilience, ambition, and triumphs of a nation.
about the archives
Over sixty years, Noor Ali Rashid documented pivotal moments, from the early days of Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s growth to landmark events that shaped the UAE’s rise on the world stage. His photographs bring to life the dedication of the UAE’s leaders and the spirit of its people. From inaugural ceremonies to private gatherings, Noor Ali’s lens revealed a deeply human side to moments that would otherwise exist only in memory. These images now offer a timeless glimpse into the heritage of the UAE and the enduring legacy of its leaders, resonating with all who see them.
Preserving this remarkable collection has been an enormous undertaking. With over 1,000,000 photographs and a growing digital archive of 350,000 images, the Noor Ali Rashid Archives is the largest single-photographer archive in the region, and possibly in the world. Ten years have been devoted to collecting, restoring, digitizing, and cataloging each piece, ensuring that every story Noor Ali captured remains intact. His early involvement brought invaluable insights into each shot, from the emotions of the moment to the stories behind the scenes. Today, the archives preserve not only the photographs but also stories they hold.
Looking to the future, the Archives aspires to build the Noor Ali Rashid Foundation. This foundation will continue to honor Noor Ali’s vision by nurturing a new generation of Emirati photographers, inspiring them to tell stories through the lens of authenticity and respect.
His work will continue to illuminate the UAE’s story, fostering a deeper understanding of where we have come from and the aspirations that drive us forward. Through this archive, Noor Ali Rashid’s dedication to preserving history lives on, his timeless gift to the nation and a legacy for generations to come.
- His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahyan
Cabinet Member and Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence Former Minister of Culture & Knowledge Development
“We are a nation grateful that Noor Ali Rashid chose to follow his passion for photography with integrity and sensitivity. His images are an irreplaceable treasure that we will enjoy and cherish forever.”
