Library Circles is a series of research, talks and experimental interventions by UAE practitioners in the Jameel Library and Jameel Arts Centre. The programme explores alternative research methodologies and representations with a focus on “thinking in public”.

For the Fall 2023 iteration of Library Circles, Jameel Library presents a research display by Rashed Almulla.

AlMulla investigates the history of stamp production in Dubai as a lens through which he studies its modernisation, urbanism and city branding mechanisms. The research draws from a past form of city branding deployed by Dubai. His research and collection cover periods pre-dating the UAE and the shifts post-union. Rashed relays and connects key historical moments in the history and development of the Dubai in the wider UAE context, including its trade and international outreach through a collection includes postage stamps, letters, currency and postcards.

This iteration of Library Circles will feature two public programmes, announcements to follow.

Rashed Almulla

Rashed Almulla is the Founder of MABNAI and an independent urban researcher specialising in urban history and planning. Based in Dubai, Almulla employs multiple mediums focusing on the built environment through exhibitions, symposiums and research contributions. He directed the Future of Gulf Housing Symposium (’23) and curated Spaces that Remain exhibition (2022-2023) at Bayt AlMamzar. Almulla holds an MSc in Regional and Urban Planning from the London School of Economics.