A Short History of the Umayyads: Understanding Islam’s First Empire Beyond the Myths

Step beyond the headlines of history and uncover the remarkable story of one of Islam's most influential yet often misunderstood dynasties. A Short History of the Umayyads: Understanding Islam's First Empire Beyond the Myths presents a balanced, insightful, and engaging exploration of the Umayyad Caliphate—an empire that shaped the political, intellectual, and cultural foundations of the Muslim world for generations.

Stretching from the Atlantic shores of modern-day France to the distant frontiers of China, the Umayyad Empire became one of the largest and most powerful civilisations in history. Yet behind its extraordinary achievements lies a complex legacy of political change, military expansion, architectural brilliance, and defining moments that continue to influence the Ummah today.

This educational Islamic book takes readers beyond simplistic narratives, offering a nuanced understanding of the Banū Umayya, their visionary leadership, remarkable accomplishments, and the controversies that surrounded their rule. Rather than relying on myths or assumptions, it invites readers to appreciate the historical realities that helped shape Islamic civilisation.

Perfect for students of Islamic studies, history enthusiasts, and anyone seeking authentic Islamic knowledge, this book provides valuable context for understanding the development of Muslim governance, society, and civilisation after the era of the Rightly Guided Caliphs. Whether you are beginning your journey in Islamic learning or already possess a strong foundation, this work offers fresh perspectives and deeper appreciation for a pivotal chapter in Islamic history.

Why You'll Love This Book

• Explores the fascinating history of the Umayyad Caliphate with clarity and balance.
• Separates historical fact from common misconceptions.
• Provides valuable insight into the development of early Islamic civilisation.
• Examines the political, military, and cultural achievements of Islam's first hereditary dynasty.
• Ideal for students, researchers, and readers passionate about Islamic history.
• Supports faith and knowledge by encouraging informed understanding of the Muslim world's rich heritage.
• An excellent addition to every collection of premium Islamic books UK.
• Makes a thoughtful gift for Muslims, students, and anyone interested in Islamic civilisation.

Who Should Read This Book?

This Islamic book is ideal for:

• Students of Islamic studies and world history.
• Readers seeking authentic Islamic knowledge rooted in historical scholarship.
• Anyone interested in Islamic learning and the evolution of Muslim civilisation.
• Teachers, researchers, and educators.
• Those looking to build a comprehensive Islamic library with bestselling Islamic books covering history, leadership, and civilisation.

Why This Book Matters

Understanding the Umayyads is essential to understanding the history of Islam itself. Their rule witnessed the transformation of a rapidly expanding faith into a sophisticated global civilisation whose influence can still be seen today in governance, architecture, scholarship, language, and culture.

This compelling work encourages readers to engage thoughtfully with Islamic history, moving beyond stereotypes to appreciate the achievements, challenges, and lasting legacy of one of the most significant dynasties in the Muslim world. It is an enriching resource for anyone committed to Islamic guidance, lifelong Islamic learning, and strengthening their appreciation of the rich heritage preserved through the Quran and Sunnah.

Whether purchased for personal study, educational purposes, or as a meaningful gift for Muslims, A Short History of the Umayyads is a valuable addition to any Islamic library and an inspiring read for anyone seeking greater faith and knowledge.

About The Author 

Issa Meyer

‘Issa Meyer is a French Muslim writer and popular historian specializing in Islamic history and civilization, with a particular focus on al-Andalus and the Maghreb. A convert to Islam since 2013, living between the United Kingdom and Morocco, he is dedicated to making the rich heritage of the Muslim world accessible to all readers through clear, engaging, and narrative-driven storytelling.

Educated at the University of Strasbourg, he has authored twelve works of popular Islamic history in French, including one historical novel and sagas exploring key eras of the Islamic past. Five of his historical works have already been translated into English:

• The Story of the Andalusis
• Women of Islam
• A Short History of the Islamic Maghreb
• A Short History of Islamic West Africa
• A Short History of Islamic Syria

In addition to his own writings, ‘Issa Meyer has translated numerous significant English-language works into French, including Yasir Qadhi’s The Sīrah of the Prophet, Agha Ibrahim Akram’s studies on the early Muslim conquests, Alija Izetbegović’s Islam Between East and West, Sir Thomas Arnold’s The Preaching of Islam, Anwar Chejne’s Ibn Hazm and André Dirlik’s ‘Abd al-Hamīd ibn Bādīs as well as other scholarly and historical works.

Blending rigorous research with accessible prose, his mission is to help readers rediscover the depth, diversity, and brilliance of the Muslim world’s past while making Islamic history engaging and approachable for all.

Robi Dalimonte

Robi Dalimonte is a young Indonesian cartoonist and visual storyteller whose vibrant, expressive style brings history to life for younger audiences. As the lead illustrator for the Zaman Kids series, he combines creativity with careful attention to cultural and historical detail, helping introduce children to the rich heritage of the Muslim world through engaging and accessible artwork.

Passionate about visual education and inspired by Islamic history, Robi’s illustrations aim to spark curiosity, imagination, and a deeper connection to the past in every young reader.

About The Publisher 

Zaman Books 

Discover the world of Zaman Books – a leading publisher dedicated to unlocking authentic Islamic history and timeless scholarship – exclusively at The Islam Shop.

At The Islam Shop Ltd, we take pride in curating only the highest-quality Islamic literature from trusted publishers like Zaman Books. Every title we stock is carefully selected to uphold the highest standards of Islamic scholarship, accuracy, and spiritual integrity. Whether you seek profound educational resources, deeply religious texts rooted in classical scholarship, or inspirational works that nourish the soul, Zaman Books delivers literature that enlightens minds and strengthens faith.

Why Zaman Books Stands Out

Zaman Books was founded on a clear mission: to make Islamic history clear, accessible, and open to everyone. Their beautifully produced books bring to life the rich legacy of Muslim civilisation – from the saga of Islamic Sicily and the golden age of al-Andalus to the majestic Ottoman Empire and the inspiring stories of Women of Islam.

With dedicated series such as The Essentials (for adults seeking scholarly depth) and Zaman Kids (created with care, love, and devotion to give children authentic heroes and role models), Zaman Books offers something for every member of the family. Their translations of classical works, such as Ibn Hazm’s The Book of the Healing of Souls, combine rigorous academic excellence with engaging, readable prose that connects readers directly to the beauty of Islamic tradition.

Authentic Islamic Books You Can Trust

When you shop Zaman Books at The Islam Shop, you benefit from our strict curation process. We only partner with publishers who share our commitment to authenticity and excellence. No compromises. Every book in our dedicated Zaman Books category is chosen because it meets the highest standards of Islamic scholarship while remaining relevant and inspiring for today’s readers.

From educational resources that deepen your knowledge of Muslim history to religious and inspirational titles that nurture iman and character, this collection is designed to help you and your family grow closer to Allah and the rich heritage of Islam.

Deepen Your Connection with Islam Today

Ready to explore a carefully curated library that truly honours Islamic scholarship?

Browse our full Zaman Books collection now at The Islam Shop and experience the transformative power of authentic Islamic literature. Whether you’re a parent looking for wholesome stories for your children, a student of knowledge, or simply someone seeking inspiration, you’ll find books here that educate, uplift, and strengthen your bond with Islam.

Shop Zaman Books at The Islam Shop – Where authentic Islamic history meets scholarly excellence.

Keywords: Zaman Books, authentic Islamic books, Islamic history books, Islamic books for kids, buy Islamic books UK, scholarly Islamic literature, The Islam Shop publishers

Start your journey into timeless Islamic knowledge today. Browse the full range in our dedicated Zaman Books category

Additional Product Information

• Author: Issa Meyer
• Publisher: Zaman Books
• Publication Date: 2026
• Edition: First Edition
• Format: Print 
• Binding: Paperback
• Pages: 216
• Dimensions: 12.5 × 19.6 cm
• Language: English
• Genre: Islamic History
• Category: Islamic Studies • History & Biography • Islamic Civilisation
• ISBN-13: 
• Suitable Age: 16+ (Young Adult & Adult Readers)
• Grade / Level: Secondary School (Advanced), College, University & General Adult Readers
• Country of Publication: United Kingdom (Zaman Press)

Share