A Glimpse into History: General Obaid Al Ketbi’s Extraordinary Collection at Adihex 2026
The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (Adihex) 2026 is currently hosting a fascinating exhibition titled "Museum 1185," which showcases a curated selection of artifacts from the private collection of General Obaid Al Ketbi. Boasting over 15,000 items from across the globe, the collection provides a unique lens through which to view the General's multifaceted career, spanning military service, diplomatic roles, and humanitarian efforts. The centerpiece of the exhibit is the number "1185," his original military identification tag from 1976, which symbolizes both his professional roots and the nation's steadfast support for its people.
Beyond military hardware, the exhibit offers a eclectic mix of personal mementos, each telling a distinct human story. Visitors can find everything from a bulky, vintage briefcase mobile phone and a WWII-era field telephone to a giant Guinness World Record-holding sports medal and an official hat gifted by an Australian officer following a humorous delay caused by kangaroos. Perhaps most intriguing is the inclusion of a rare sword from "The Lord of the Rings" film trilogy, which Al Ketbi meticulously acquired after negotiations in New Zealand. By presenting these diverse objects, the display serves as a chronological tapestry, successfully documenting the evolution of both an individual’s life and the history of the UAE.