In the realm of heritage research, few figures shine as brightly as Dr. Falih Hanzahl. Fondly referring to him as “Uncle Falih,” I am one of the fortunate students who gained knowledge from the esteemed scholar and historian. His life and work underscore that delving into heritage is not merely about collecting information; it is an excavation of the nation’s memory and a dialogue with the hidden tales of its people and places. Dr. Falih has been a pioneer in researching, documenting, and preserving the oral heritage of the United Arab Emirates.
A Well-Deserved Recognition
Recently, it was a great pleasure to witness Dr. Falih being honoured by His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, the Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, during the celebratory event “The UAE Loves Iraq.” This recognition brought joy to his students and admirers who truly appreciate the value of his contributions to the history and heritage of the UAE.
A Lifelong Commitment to Heritage
Dr. Falih is well-known for his significant publication, “Glossary of Emirati Words,” from which we drew extensively when preparing our collaborative work “The Words of the People of the Emirates and Their Roots.” His scholarly repertoire also includes a comprehensive dictionary of colloquial expressions in the UAE, a lexicon of diving and pearl-related terms in the Arabian Gulf, as well as a collection of proverbs, sayings, and idioms rooted in Emirati culture. His latest work, “The Three Towers of Wisdom,” further enriches our literary landscape.
Upon his arrival in the UAE, Dr. Falih began his career with a well-drilling company. Yet, his quest for knowledge led him to delve deeper into another treasure: the collective memory of the Emirati people. He lived intimately with the Bedouins, listened to their storytellers, collected vocabulary, and documented the nuances of social and cultural life. This dedication has established him as one of the foremost researchers committed to preserving a vital aspect of our heritage.
A Scholar Like No Other
Today, when I sit with Dr. Falih, I see an industrious young man who, despite surpassing the age of ninety, retains a sharp memory and an unwavering passion for research and writing. The challenges of age do not quell his love for knowledge or diminish his belief that writing is a form of life. He exemplifies that a true researcher never retires from their passion.
Visiting him each morning brings me joy as I greet him, inquire about his health, and seek insight from his wisdom. In his presence, we do not merely converse with a specialised researcher; we engage with an encyclopaedic intellect capable of bridging the past with the present and envisioning the future through a profound understanding of people and their circumstances.
An Enduring Legacy
Dr. Falih Hanzahl holds a special place in his heart for the UAE, the land that embraced him and his family, reciprocating his affection and respect. His recent accolade is a testament to a nation that recognises its scholars and honours those who dedicate their lives to service.
Preserving heritage is both a cultural and humane responsibility, beginning with listening to storytellers and culminating in the authentic transmission of knowledge to future generations, free from distortion or misrepresentation. Thank you, Uncle Falih, for not only safeguarding words but also for preserving the history and stories of the people. May you enjoy many more years enriched by your unrelenting curiosity, allowing you to remain an enduring mentor from whom we continue to learn. You embody the archetype of a researcher who loves the UAE; the nation has lovingly etched your contributions into its collective memory and into the hearts of its people.