Under the patronage of the Acting Dean of the College of Arts, Prof. Abdul Mohsen Al-Tabtabaei, the Cultural Committee of the Department of History and Archaeology at the College of Arts organized a lecture titled “Saif Marzouq Al-Shamlan and the Book of Pearl Diving in Kuwait and the Arabian Gulf”, presented by Dr. Hamad Al-Qahtani. 

Dr. Hamad Al-Qahtani spoke about the biography of the Kuwaiti historian and researcher Saif Marzouq Al-Shamlan, who is considered one of the most prominent historians to have documented the history of pearl diving in the region. He highlighted Al-Shamlan’s most notable work the book Pearl Diving in its two volumes, describing it as a detailed account of this rich maritime heritage and its economic and social importance in the history of Kuwait and the Arabian Gulf. 

Dr. Al-Qahtani also discussed pearls and their types, diving techniques and tools, as well as specific concepts related to pearl diving and its markets, such as the Bahrain Market and the Paris Market, along with types of diving and trading ships. He mentioned the diseases and dangers divers faced and emphasized how Al-Shamlan’s book serves as a key reference in this field. 

In conclusion, they opened the discussion with several questions were raised to deepen understanding of the topic and to stress the importance of shedding light on maritime history as a fundamental part of national identity. 

Attendees affirmed the significance of this lecture in preserving Kuwait’s heritage and enhancing knowledge and awareness of Kuwaiti history.