Dubai Culture narrates the tales of the nation on the UAE 52nd Union Day

Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) presents exceptional artistic performances and entertainment experiences inspired by local heritage for visitors and its affiliated sites in celebration of the UAE 52nd Union Day. This will take place from 2 to 4 December 2023 as part of its responsibilities to enhance the presence of heritage and strengthen national identity in the hearts of the community.

Through a series of celebrations organised by the Authority at Etihad Museum, Al Safa Art & Design Library, Al Shindagha Museum, Al Fahidi Historic Neighbourhood, and Hatta Heritage Village, Dubai Culture will narrate the stories of the nation, the inspiring Union journey, collective work, and showcase the creativity of the people of the UAE. It will highlight details of local culture, depicting beautiful images of the community, its customs, traditions, and the cultural diversity that characterises the country.

Over three days, Etihad Museum will be adorned with the colours of the UAE flag, opening its interior and exterior spaces to the public to relive the moment of the Union’s announcement 52 years ago. Visitors can interact with innovative stations offering a variety of cultural experiences inspired by the Emirates. The journey begins with the ’Dynamic Doodle’, which allows the children to paint the Dubai skyline and various city elements, showcasing the artistic spirit of the city and enabling young talent to express their creativity, while the ‘Scent-Sational Wonderland’ station pays tribute to Sharjah, where visitors can experience a collection of perfumes inspired by the cultural diversity of the country. ‘The Sound of Our Ancestors’ station reflects the authenticity of the heritage of Ras Al Khaimah, showcasing traditional folk arts.

Meanwhile, visitors to ‘Weaving Dreams’ will have the opportunity to pay homage to the vibrant textile traditions found in Fujairah’s souqs by participating in a textile station, while children can paint on rocks through the ‘Stones of Expression’ station that shows the beauty of nature in Ajman, while the ‘Falconry’ space is a dedicated falcon drawing station for kids to sketch and colour falcons. Young people can use mangrove shape templates to craft a lifelike paper-based mangrove environment through the eco-aware ‘Crafting Wonders of Mangrove Corner’.

At the same time, Etihad Museum visitors can explore the details of the installation artwork ‘Parametric Dunes’, inspired by the natural wonders of the Emirati desert, and the ‘Soaring Falcons’ piece symbolising strength and courage in local culture. The museum will also feature traditional Emirati cuisine, along with artistic performances and popular dances by specialised groups in martial arts, Ayala dance, and Rababa playing, among others.

In celebration of the UAE 52nd Union Day, Al Safa Art & Design Library will host diverse activities on December 3, shedding light on Emirati culture, handicrafts, traditional cuisine, henna art, and a traditional market that allows some local brands to showcase products inspired by local heritage. Maryam Al Obeidli, through her store, offers the opportunity to explore these aforementioned essences through unique stickers and handbags. ‘Tebra’ presents a diverse range of accessories, while ‘Stitch Art’ exhibits a selected collection of abayas and dresses. Cafe Peloton offers a variety of healthy meals and coffee to keep everyone refreshed.

Al Fahidi Historic Neighbourhood and Hatta Heritage Village will open their doors to visitors to enjoy a range of performances presented by popular folk groups. As for Al Shindagha Museum, the UAE’s largest heritage museum, it will bring family members together on Union Day to take them on unique paths where they walk in the footsteps of their ancestors. They will stop at numerous creative stations overflowing with love for the homeland, learning about the details and beauties of local maritime heritage and its impact on social life in Dubai. This will be done through a diverse array of events,performances, and interactive workshops exploring the relationship of the emirate’s residents with the sea. They will learn about traditional shipbuilding techniques, sails, ropes, making traditional fishing tools, discovering the secrets of making incense and henna, and more.