Cultural momentum in any country is commonly perceived as an indication of economic prosperity, and political and social stability. In modern cities, sustaining cultural life is considered one of the major challenges today. To some extent, some even feel working in the field of culture in modern cities is a struggle. That is a fact, and those who work in the field are very well aware of this reality.

The UAE today is enjoying cultural momentum throughout the year. This comes as no surprise as a result of the prosperity and stability of the country, which has achieved social peace and security that is felt by citizens and residents alike. In order to truly learn about the depth of these diverse cultural activities, the notable cultural momentum in the UAE requires careful and close observation. Cultural life in the UAE began with a balanced approach, paving the way for future qualitative shifts in the field of culture at the local and regional level.

Cultural activities and programmes continue to take place throughout the year. Every week there is some form of cultural activity or event, whether it is literary, artistic or just a seminar, conference, book fair, theatre or music concert. There are also permanent or ongoing events, such as museums or heritage performances and shows, and art shows hosted with contributions from Arab and foreign artists, writers and intellectuals.

Not a single person today or in the recent past can say that these programmes and activities are only found in some of the emirates, because these events span the entire UAE, albeit with a difference in frequency. The most prominent cities in the field of culture and arts are Sharjah, Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

However, does this cultural momentum, accompanied by these cultural and artistic extravaganzas, lack something that can make them more effective and widespread?

In terms of radio, for example, Sharjah led the way. In 1962, the first radio station in the UAE called ‘Voice of the Coast’ was set up in Sharjah. The radio station continued to operate until 1970, and then it was eventually replaced in 1972 by Dubai Radio, which operated on the same frequency. Sharjah Radio was eventually relaunched and in 2000, UAE Radio was also launched in the emirate. In the 1960s in Ajman, Rashid Abdullah Bin Humdah, an Emirati, set up a radio station in his home.

In September, Ajman’s Al Rabia radio station was established in 2001. Dubai Radio was set up in 1971, while Dubai FM was established in 2011. Ras Al Khaimah Radio was launched in 1972. Umm Al Quwain Radio was set up in 1978, and later a Holy Quran radio station was set up in the emirate. Fujairah FM was established in 2006, and later, it was the turn of the Zayed Holy Quran radio station.

As for Abu Dhabi, the first radio station, Voice of the UAE, was launched in 1969 and became the nation’s official station in 1971. Later, Quran Kareem Radio was established, Emarat FM was set up in 1995, then Star FM in 2009, and Abu Dhabi Classic FM in 2009.

As for the UAE’s cultural momentum, one asks: what can be done to enable this semi-continuous cultural and artistic phenomenon to reach a wider range of people on a local, regional and international level?

It is a question that often repeats itself among a number of enthusiasts and intellectuals, and even those who are operating in the field of culture. It is quite unfair that such intensive and notable efforts are being exerted on high budgets, and not many people are aware of such cultural activities and their results. These activities are, without exception, a matter of interest for all. If the local and regional reach is developed, it will make people more aware, and perhaps to a certain extent, more productive.

Nations in the Arab world and the region, as well as developed countries, have preceded us by implementing tangible and effective solutions. Such solutions include setting up TV and radio stations just for culture and arts. The stations’ programmes include news, analyses and interviews, as well as live coverage of activities, exhibitions, conferences and musical performances. The availability of content in this field means that it would be easy to operate such stations. So the question is: When will there be a culture and arts TV station? Let’s hope the answer is: Soon.

Mohammad Hassan Al Harbi is a writer and journalist.