Culture

The collaboration also aims to organize a series of educational and training programs to promote authentic Emirati heritage and values. This MoU aligns with the commitment of both parties to preserve and instill national identity in the community and contribute to spreading concepts and foundations supporting national loyalty and citizenship values in society. The MoU reflects the keenness of Dubai Culture and Watani Al Emarat Foundation to achieve Dubai’s visions and aspirations by exchanging best practices and institutional experiences. It also emphasizes the activation of communication and collaboration channels, confirming their strategic partnership and integrated efforts to raise the quality of life and instill a culture of national loyalty in future generations. Muna Faisal Algurg, CEO of the Culture & Heritage Sector at Dubai Culture, affirmed that the partnership with Watani Al Emarat Foundation reflects the Authority’s efforts to consolidate national identity in the hearts of future generations, preserve heritage, and expand the presence of Emirati culture worldwide as well as Dubai Culture’s commitment to the ‘Principles of the 50’ that promote the values of cultural respect and national identity through openness and tolerance, stating: “Through its diverse projects and initiatives, Dubai Culture is dedicated to deepening social cohesion and highlighting society’s cultural and humanistic aspects, strengthening the sense of belonging to the homeland. We are also actively enhancing the global presence of Emirati heritage and raising public awareness, which falls within our cultural responsibility, a cornerstone of the sectoral priorities within our strategic roadmap.” HE Dherar Belhoul Al Falasi, Executive Director of Watani Al Emarat Foundation, said: “We are delighted to announce our agreement with Dubai Culture, marking a significant step towards enhancing mutual cooperation and establishing channels for the exchange of knowledge and expertise. This collaboration aligns seamlessly with our shared vision and concerted efforts to preserve our national identity, improve awareness of Emirati heritage and culture and foster values of belonging and positive citizenship within our society. This partnership serves as a comprehensive framework for our joint initiatives, encompassing the organisation of events, activities, research programs and training aimed at raising awareness on the authentic aspects of Emirati culture. Our primary goal is to deepen the connection of successive generations with our national heritage. At Watani Al Emarat Foundation, we eagerly anticipate the continued development of this collaboration with Dubai Culture and other prominent national institutions. We firmly believe in the collective power of efforts and institutional cooperation to fortify our dedication to national identity and foster community participation.”

The World Cities Culture Summit is an annual three-day gathering for member cities of the World Cities Culture Forum. It serves as a platform for the exchange of groundbreaking ideas and best practices in cultural policymaking. Through collaboration with city partners, the summit engages in comprehensive research endeavors, establishing a robust foundation of evidence to underscore the multifaceted influence of culture on global cities and the lives of their residents. Comprising over 40 cities worldwide, the World Cities Culture Forum stands as the most significant international network shaping arts and culture policies. Its objective is to emphasize culture as a pivotal force driving societal and economic growth, highlighting the role of culture in cities and the creation of sustainable urban centers. Honorable Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Member of the Dubai Council, expressed that hosting this summit further solidifies the emirate’s position as a global cultural destination. This aligns with Dubai’s commitment to building a knowledge- and innovation-based sustainable creative economy. She added, “Hosting the 2024 World Cities Culture Summit is a testament to the visionary aspirations of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to transform Dubai into a global center for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent.” Sheikh Latifa emphasized the summit’s significance as an international platform that brings together cultural experiences, creative innovations, and scholarly research to envision the future of cities through culture and creativity. Additionally, the summit aims to consolidate efforts to enhance the quality of life across communities and better equip them to navigate future changes. Hala Badri, director-general of Dubai Culture, highlighted that Dubai’s hosting of the World Cities Culture Summit fosters the establishment and development of a global network of relationships, encouraging new cultural partnerships that enhance Dubai’s leadership and global standing. Badri stated, “Hosting the World Cities Culture Summit reflects the visionary approach of Dubai’s wise leadership and contributes to driving the city’s cultural and developmental journey. The summit represents an international platform highlighting Dubai’s efforts to preserve cultural and human heritage and create new opportunities for creative talent to engage with international networks.” Founded in 2012 by the Mayor of London to coincide with the London Olympic Games, the World Cities Culture Forum started as a network of eight global cities. Over the last decade, it has grown to include 40 global cities spanning six continents, collectively representing 172 million people. Dubai joined the forum in 2020, with representation by Dubai Culture, making Dubai and Abu Dhabi the only Arab cities within the forum.

Collection contains 149 remarkable examples of Sheikh Zayed’s personal poems   “Diwan”, a collection of poems of UAE Founded Sheikh Zayed, serves as a testament to the relentless dedication and commitment to nurturing and preserving the rich tapestry of the UAE’s cultural heritage. In a significant cultural endeavor, the Cultural Programs and Heritage Festivals Committee of Abu Dhabi has proudly introduced a book authored by the UAE’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, as part of the Abu Dhabi Poetry Festival. This captivating literary creation, aptly titled “Diwan,” encompasses a collection of 149 remarkable examples of Sheikh Zayed’s personal poems and his eloquent responses to distinguished poets of his time. These poetic masterpieces traverse a wide spectrum of themes, delving into the realms of brotherhood, patriotism, and the intricate fabric of social life that intricately weaved Sheikh Zayed’s persona. The launch of “Diwan” serves as a testament to the relentless dedication and commitment to nurturing and preserving the rich tapestry of the UAE’s cultural heritage. This literary treasure trove is a poignant reminder of the values, wisdom, and poetic prowess of the visionary leader, Sheikh Zayed, whose legacy continues to inspire and shape the nation.