Preserved in Ras Al Khaimah, rare passports from the 1950s offer a unique glimpse into the Gulf's transformative era. These documents, issued during the region's early modernisation, serve as a bridge to the past, reflecting the evolving dynamics of mobility and identity.
A Glimpse Into the Past
Before the 1950s, Gulf travel was informal and undocumented. The discovery of oil and the economic boom in neighboring nations like Kuwait and Bahrain created new opportunities, leading to the issuance of official passports by the Trucial States in 1957. These passports were more than travel papers; they symbolized connectivity and progress, marking a significant shift in regional history.
"These passports are time capsules," says Mohammed Alkhawja, a senior document specialist. "They tell deeply personal stories and reflect an era of transformation."
Personal Details and Migration Patterns
Unlike modern passports, the older documents contained detailed physical descriptors, including eye and hair color, and noted distinguishing features such as visual impairments. For example, the term karim aleaynayn (weak-sighted) was used. Birthplaces often revealed historical migration patterns, highlighting the diverse origins of Gulf residents.
Preservation and Display
Efforts to preserve these passports began in 2011, resulting in the collection of 5,700 documents. Eighteen were exhibited during the RAK Heritage Days, showcasing light red, dark green, and dark red passports from different administrative periods, as well as light blue documents for non-citizens.
Restoration challenges due to the fragile condition of the documents are being addressed with support from institutions like the Sharjah Institute for Heritage. Photographer Mohamed Abdullah Al-Nimr Al-Hassawi played a key role in documenting this history, producing passport photos that are now part of this legacy.
Chronicling Gulf History
Dr. Hamad Bin Seray’s extensive research, spanning four years and over 1,200 pages, delves into nearly 6,000 passports and 10,000 travel forms. His work preserves the narratives of early Gulf travelers, enriching the region's historical archives.
These passports are not merely relics but a testament to the Gulf’s rich heritage and the personal stories of those who shaped its modern identity.
