Speaker of the Federal National Council (FNC), Mohammed Ahmed Al Mur, on Thursday opened Sharjah 2013 Stamp Exhibition, organised by Emirates Philatelic Association as part of the celebrations of the 42nd anniversary of the UAE National day.

The 5-day event, now in its fourth year, brought together more than 50 leading stamp exhibitors, some 30 dealers who are displaying some of their most valuable collections.

The exhibition encompasses a wide-reaching range of philately themes spanning two centuries, displaying some of the world’s most extraordinary and elusive stamps at almost 128 exhibits. It chronicles milestones in the UAE’s four-decade history. Topics range from 19th century Egyptian postal stationary to the earliest days of postal aviation.

"Philately is a pursuit enjoyed all around the world, bringing collectors together to exchange not only stamps but also ideas. It offers a unique way to look at our history," said President of Emirates Philatelic Association, Abdulla Khouri.