Abu Dhabi: A wicker basket hangs in a pavilion and a traditional lullaby plays in the background. Nearby, there are colourful portraits of young Emirati girls engrossed in a book dressed in traditional clothes. These scenes are part of the Mother of the Nation Pavilion that honours Emirati women’s ambition and dedication towards building the community.
The Mother of the Nation Pavilion, at the centre of the Mother of the Nation Festival that is being held at the Abu Dhabi Corniche, highlights the significant role of Her Highness Shaikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood in furthering women’s empowerment. It also pays tribute to the hard work of mothers and families in preserving the values and traditions inherent in Emirati culture while embracing a multitude of challenges.
At the pavilion, inspirational verses and quotes by Shaikha Fatima are transcribed on a portrait, describing how she perceives Emirati women as strong and confident members of society. According to Shaikha Fatima, Emirati women are adept at overcoming difficult circumstances and capable of combatting illiteracy and ignorance while fulfilling their domestic duties. A wall-mounted hologram displays black-and-white footage of Emirati women weaving and selling fish in the market. A corridor of photographs also shows the military achievements of Emirati women through the ages.
Nadine Yousuf, 29, art director, Egyptian, and her friend Karen Fadi, 26, operation manager, Lebanese, were intrigued by the work displayed at the Mother of the Nation Pavilion.
“I’m very impressed by artwork and method of narration and storytelling of Emirati women’s historical achievements. It’s done in a simple, classy and elegant manner. Also, the words of the lullaby to pacify kids amazed me,” said Yousuf.
“It’s amazing how Emirati women have always been a key pillar in building their nation throughout history, and the stories here tell us what it was like in the past, and how women of the past had a robust stamina,” Fadi said.
Karima Ahmad, 39, engineer, Egyptian, was visiting the festival for the second year in a row.
“I was here last year with some friends, and we really enjoyed it; so, I decided to come back again this year and check out the new festivities. I really enjoyed the interactive majlis talks on happiness, society and women empowerment. The speakers offered a very captivating and inspirational dialogue, especially the session on ending small chit-chats,” said Ahmad.
The festival which opened its doors to the public on Sunday will run till April 4, offering visitors diverse world class dance and music performances besides energetic stunt shows and entertainment by the beach. The event also features fire blowers, jugglers, urban magicians, PixelPyros — a digital firework display, a Bu Tinah Sea Adventure — a magical adventure with colourful shipwrecked dhows, interactive chef challenges, and a dhow painting installation.
Visitors can also experience the global premiere of the Miyah Pavilion (World of Water), where they will embark on an interactive installation illustrating the importance of global water conservation.
Pokemon fans are in for a special treat, with the video game-themed Pokemon Symphonic Evolutions concert.
The festival also offers a line-up of performances by Abu Dhabi Big Band, Lords of Lightning, Ensijam — 17 Piece Arabic Orchestra, Bubbles on the Beach and a Giant Light Puppet.
