Wednesday, Apr 19, 2017

Abu Dhabi: A packed event of cultural activities is being organised in Al Ain in celebration of World Heritage Day on Thursday and Friday.

The event, organised by Tourism and Culture Authority Abu Dhabi (TCA Abu Dhabi) and Al Ain Palace Museum at the museum, aims to give visitors unique insight into the rich Emirati heritage and will feature a variety of entertaining and educational programmes that are suitable for all age groups. Activities include traditional dances, educational workshops, panel discussions and food truck stations.

Traditional handicrafts, which will be on show, hold a certain value in Arab heritage as they reflect the cultural and social diversity of an individual and the community. These practices are linked to local customs, traditions and values, and could be differentiated by variant social events and cultures, whether from the UAE or any other Arab region,.

Folklore shows are aimed to make visitors feel a sense of home and a close connection to their heritage and culture.

The International Council of Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) is leading the World Heritage Day celebrations under the theme “Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Tourism” within the framework of the 17 sustainable development goals of the 2030 Sustainable Development Plan adopted by world leaders in September 2015 at a historic UN Summit held at United Nations Headquarters in New York, USA.

The UAE was one of the first countries to support the Sustainable Development Plan.

The Al Ain Palace Museum holds a great value to the UAE as it is located on the western edge of Al Ain Oasis. The palace was previously home to the founder of the UAE, Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and a centre for political and social activities.

For more information, please visit http://visitabudhabi.ae/

What: World Heritage Day celebrations

Where: Al Ain Palace Museum

Date & time: April 20 and 21, 5pm to 10pm

Staff Report

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