The museum presents a comprehensive study of the culture, encompassing economic, social, and architectural life in Sicily during the period of Islamic rule. The Muhammed ibn Rashid al-Ma'ktum Foundation launched the encyclopedia "Islamic Civilization in Sicily", prepared by Dr. Salma al-Hadra al-Jiosi, known for her creative activity in the literary field over more than half a century.
The encyclopedia, published in English, has become a reference for researchers and historians worldwide writing about Sicily, its history, and its connections to the Arab and Islamic worlds. It includes more than 33 studies, fixing various historical epochs of Arab Muslims on the Mediterranean island. 32 researchers participated in creating the encyclopedia, among them 15 Italians, as well as scholars from Arab and Western countries.
The executive director of the foundation, Jamal bin Huweirb, emphasized that the encyclopedia represents a complete cultural study, encompassing economic, social, and architectural life in Sicily during the period of Islamic rule (831–1091 AD). Information about medieval Sicily to this day reflects the Arab and Islamic heritage, whether in architecture, language, cuisine, or rural agriculture, which presents a living testimony of the continuous interactions between Arab and European cultures.
Emphasizing the importance of supporting cultural cooperation, Jamal bin Huweirb dedicated the encyclopedia in memory of the poetess and researcher Salma al-Hadra al-Jiosi, who passed away in 2023 after more than 18 years of work on the project. The director of the Administration of Education and Arabic Linguistics in Abu Dhabi, Dr. Khalil al-Sheikh, highlighted that the book should be studied in higher educational institutions and universities of the United Arab Emirates and other Arab countries for the acquaintance of students with the cultural aspect.
The encyclopedia covers various themes, including the Italian language and its influence on Arabic, showcasing Islamic architecture in towns and settlements, literature, science, music, and other literary genres characteristic of the period of Arab rule in Sicily, leaving a significant mark in various works and achievements of European culture.