Dubai: Coinciding with World Heritage Day, Dubai is organising a Heritage Week to celebrate UAE culture under the theme ‘Dubai: Live Your Heritage'.
The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, under the patronage of Shaikh Majid Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture, will organise a series of programmes and activities on Emirati heritage from April 17 to 21.
Building on World Heritage Day to be celebrated on Monday, Heritage Week will offer a unique opportunity for residents and visitors to experience facets of Emirati heritage. In line with the founding theme of the World Heritage Day to celebrate one's national monuments and cultural sites, Heritage Week activities will be held at key cultural destinations of Dubai in addition to activities at other prominent locations across the city.
The activities will provide insights on the history and traditions of the UAE and serve as an educational window on the country's heritage.
Way of life
Some of the activities are free, and will offer rich insights into the cultural fabric of the country, its customs, traditions and way of life of the Emirati people.
Saeed Al Naboudah, Acting Director-General, Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, said: "Understanding our rich heritage is crucial to further appreciating the Emirati identity, and central to strengthening our cultural outlook.
"In today's fast-paced life, it is important that we sit back, reconnect with our roots and draw from the strengths of one's cultural heritage." He said residents and visitors will get a glimpse into traditions and customs.
In addition to featuring an open air market with traditional Emirati trinkets and artefacts, documentary films will be screened at Al Bastakiya. The films will depict the various aspects of the country's rich cultural heritage.
Schedule
The Heritage Week will be held from April 17 to 21. The historic Al Bastakiya will be one of the key event destinations in addition to the Dubai Public Library.
Programmes will also be held at the Dubai Culture and Scientific Association, Hatta National Arts and Cultural Association, Dubai International Airport, Dubai Mall and Dubai Women's Association.
