The paths of these two stars have intersected on several occasions due to their association with the luxury brand Bulgari
entertainment2 hours ago
The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced the inclusion of two key elements of UAE national heritage on the United Nations Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization’s (Unesco) Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The traditional Aflaj system of water channels used for farm irrigation in Al Ain has been submitted as a UAE element of intangible cultural heritage, while the camel races have been submitted jointly with the Sultanate of Oman.
These submissions are a culmination of the joint efforts made by the Ministry of Culture and Youth and DCT Abu Dhabi to showcase the UAE’s rich cultural heritage internationally and to preserve traditions for future generations.
The inclusion of these two examples of cultural heritage on the Representative List will be awarded to the UAE at the 15th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Unesco, held virtually at its headquarters in Paris from December 14-19.
To date, the UAE has successfully registered 11 cultural activities and traditions on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity through joint national, regional, and international submissions, strengthening the country’s position as an active member in the Committee.
Made to highlight intangible heritage, the list helps to demonstrate the diversity of cultural heritage and raise awareness about its importance, while helping ensure recognition of these national traditions and emphasising societies’ expertise.
The first of the latest inclusions on the list, Aflaj, highlights the significance, knowledge and skills relating to the construction and maintenance of the UAE’s traditional irrigation network system, which aimed to ensure a fair distribution of water. The second inclusion, camel races, focuses on the art of racing and is deemed a festive social practice embodying Arab heritage.
Commenting on the importance of preserving heritage, Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: “The inclusion of Aflaj and Camel Races on UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity is a great achievement that reinforces our country’s position as an incubator of rich heritage and national pride. The DCT Abu Dhabi is honoured to support the great efforts behind these campaigns, as part of our extensive work to preserve the cultural traditions and practices of the emirate and the UAE as a whole.”
Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Acting Undersecretary of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, commented: “Abu Dhabi's incomparable appeal as a destination is backed by a wide array of traditional cultural practices that enrich our lives. Our precious intangible heritage is an essential element of our appeal for both our visitors and residents alike. Including Aflaj and Camel Races in the Unesco Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity List is a shared achievement that we cherish on a national and human level.”
Aligning with the directives of the country’s wise leadership in preserving the national heritage and safeguarding culture for future generations, the UAE is working to include Arabic calligraphy, camel footwear, and Harees (beaten wheat and meat) in the next edition of the Unesco Representative List.
reporters@khaleejtimes.com
The paths of these two stars have intersected on several occasions due to their association with the luxury brand Bulgari
entertainment2 hours ago
The students' demands range from a ceasefire in Israel's war with Hamas to calls for universities to stop investing in Israeli enterprises
world2 hours ago
Despite Kohli's flowing form ahead of the T20 World Cup in June, pundits have raised concerns over his strike-rate
cricket2 hours ago
Saudi Arabia has begun to explore extracting lithium from sea water
business3 hours ago
Speaking after meeting Lebanese leaders, French foreign minister says there had been "a lot of progress" over the French proposals
mena3 hours ago
The three-shot winner from Japan says he is aiming to become a member of the PGA Tour in the future
sports3 hours ago
Big-hitting Nienaber falters at the finish to settle for secondwhile former Abu Dhabi resident David Horsey takes the third spot at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club
sports3 hours ago
The UAE is India's second-largest export destination after the US
economy3 hours ago