Dubai: 7th January, 2007: The Emirates Diving Association (EDA) has released a 140 page publication on the rich heritage of pearl diving in the region. The glossy, soft bound edition, published with the support of Dubai Properties, offers glimpses of the historical significance of pearl diving and the maritime legacy of the Gulf.

Titled "Pearl Diving", the book includes a compilation of interviews with old pearl divers and UAE nationals on their experiences of diving in the UAE. The data, supported by authentic photographs, was collected by Jumaa Bin Thalith, coordinator of the EDA Heritage Department.

Essa Al Ghurair, Vice Chairman, Emirates Diving Association said: "Pearl diving was an important part of the economy of the Arabian Gulf before the current oil boom. Local pearl divers went to great risks to collect oysters from the ocean floor, but the rewards were worth it. The income received from the pearl industry helped support many Dubai families. This book will shed light on a very interesting and important period in Dubai's history."

For hundreds of years, the finest pearls in the world were found in the waters of the Arabian Gulf. The ancient pearling industry provided the only real income for the people of the UAE. In response to the increased demand for pearls, many more families settled permanently in the coastal villages, which began to grow in importance and influence, particularly Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Hashim Al Dabal, Head of Dubai Properties said: "Pearl diving is a part of the UAE's heritage. Associations such as the EDA help to preserve our culture; its initiatives give visitors an insight about our ancestors, and the UAE's maritime traditions.

"With the publication of this book, more people can gain a better understanding and appreciation of this cultural aspect of life in the UAE in the olden days."

EDA contributes to the preservation of the tradition in the UAE by organizing the old seasonal pearl diving trips. Mr. Faraj Butti Al Muhairbi, EDA's chairman continues to pearl dive on EDA's traditional dhow, accompanied by young UAE Nationals and EDA members and guests, visiting the UAE pearl dive sites.

In 2006, Dubai Properties added diversity to the real estate market with the launch of the Culture Village. Blending Middle Eastern history with the rich heritage of Dubai, the AED 50 Billion development will feature museums on the culture and traditions of the UAE, including pearl diving, and also house a dockyard displaying the building of traditional dhows.

-Ends-

About Dubai Properties
Dubai Properties is a member of Dubai Holding and operates with the express aim of conceiving unique communities that add value for the customer and contribute towards the growth of Dubai. The portfolio of projects handled by Dubai Properties is diverse and represents the highest quality of real estate in the region. Dubai Properties offers mixed-use master developments catering to diverse lifestyles including Jumeirah Beach Residence, Business Bay, The Villa, Culture Village, Tijara Town, and Mudon. Dubai Properties also offers premium retail opportunities with The Walk at JBR and Bay Avenue at Business Bay.

About Emirates Diving Association
The main aim of the Emirates Diving Association (EDA) is to conserve, protect and restore the U.A.E. marine resources by understanding and promoting the marine environment and environmental diving. On an international level, EDA has managed to gain a great deal of success and recognition. EDA is the representative of the American Organization "The Ocean Conservancy" in the UAE. EDA is also one of the UAE coordinators of the Australian International NGO "Clean Up the World", an international annual clean up campaign where more than one hundred countries participate to clean up the world. EDA is also a member of the Arab Diving Federation (ADF). The Environment Department of EDA also collaborates with United Nations Environment Programme-UNEP.          

For further information, please contact:
Linda Abdulhay
JiWin
Tel: +971 4 3613333
Fax: + 971 4 3688001
Mob: +971 50 4824185
E-mail: Linda.abdulhay@jiwin.ae

Ibrahim N. Al-Zu'bi
Director of Environment Dept
Emirates Diving Association
Tel: +971 4 3939390
Mob: +971 50 7748844
Email: edadiver@emirates.net.ae

© Press Release 2007