Dubai: Indian expatriate and philatelist Imtiaz Qureshi has built a one-of-a-kind stamp collection that redefines the boundaries of design and material. With over 10,000 stamps gathered from more than 100 countries, Qureshi’s collection is a living archive of creativity and heritage.
His stamps go far beyond paper. Some are made from wood, silk, lace, metal, or even gold and diamonds. Others engage the senses through scents of coffee or chocolate. Qureshi’s favourites include a Bhutanese stamp embedded with a real seed, a Swiss lace stamp, a UAE stamp crafted with gold foil, and a diamond-studded edition from Dubai marking the UAE’s 50th anniversary.
Qureshi views each stamp as a storyteller capturing moments of history, culture, and technology. He says philately connects him to the evolution of human progress, from early postal systems to modern innovations in design. For him, collecting is not a hobby but a mission to preserve global narratives in miniature form.
He regularly exhibits his collection at cultural events and local forums across the UAE. His aim is to inspire young collectors and revive interest in philately, especially among students who are growing up in the digital era.
Qureshi’s journey reflects the spirit of patience, curiosity, and respect for craftsmanship. His stamps celebrate both cultural diversity and creative innovation, proving that even a small piece of paper—or lace, or gold—can carry the weight of history and imagination.
