Abu Dhabi: For those who are not aware of the UAE's long and rich history, the Cultural Heritage Gallery of UAE at the Zayed Centre for Studies and Research will give visitors an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the country's hidden treasures.
"It took three months to put everything together because we not only had to plan the layout of the exhibition but also had to transport various artefacts from museums all around the UAE," Juma Al Darmaki, manager of the Zayed Centre for Studies and Research, said.
"Over 50 per cent of the items on display are being exhibited for the first time," he said.
"One reason why we wanted to hold this exhibition is because we wanted to show the historical heritage of the UAE," he added.
Misconception
"There is a misconception that the UAE is only 35 years old because [of] the celebrations that mark the unification of the seven emirates. In fact, the UAE as a country is much older and that is shown in the displayed artefacts, some of which are over 250,000 years old," he added.
The exhibition, which has been organised by the Emirates Heritage Club with the support of Unesco's office in Abu Dhabi and the regional Unesco office in Qatar, is being held under the patronage of Shaikh Sultan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President's Representative and President of the Emirates Heritage Club. The event was inaugurated by his sons, Shaikh Hazza and Shaikh Khalid on Tuesday.
"We decided to inaugurate this exhibition on the occasion of International Museum Day [on May 18] to not only highlight what we have to offer but to join our fellow museums around the world that are celebrating their role in preserving history," Al Darmaki said.
About the event
- What: Cultural Heritage Gallery of UAE
- Where: Zayed Centre for Studies and Research
- When: From May 18 - August 18
- Timings: Saturday - Thursday, 8am - 1pm and 4pm - 8pm
- Telephone: 02-665 9555
