The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has officially launched an ambitious new program dedicated to the preservation and protection of the UAE’s cultural and national heritage. The initiative, titled “The Guardians of Identity,” marks a significant step in the capital’s long-term strategy to ensure that traditional Emirati customs, historical sites, and intangible legacies remain vibrant for future generations.
The program is designed to create a bridge between the nation’s rapid modernization and its ancestral roots, focusing on both the physical restoration of ancient landmarks and the documentation of oral histories.
A Multi-Dimensional Approach to Preservation
Unlike previous conservation efforts, “The Guardians of Identity” utilizes a hybrid model that combines grassroots community engagement with state-of-the-art technology. DCT Abu Dhabi plans to deploy advanced 3D scanning and digital archiving to create a “Virtual Heritage Vault,” ensuring that every architectural detail of the emirate’s historic forts and traditional buildings is preserved in a digital format.
Core pillars of the new program include:
• The Living Museum Project: Transforming historical neighborhoods into interactive zones where traditional crafts, such as Al-Sadu weaving and Al-Talli embroidery, are taught by local masters to the youth.
• Architectural Restoration: A dedicated fund to restore over 20 sites of historical significance across Al Ain and the Al Dhafra region using traditional, sustainable materials.
• Oral History Archive: An intensive field project to record the stories and poetry of Emirati elders, preserving the linguistic nuances of the region’s heritage.
Empowering the Next Generation
A central focus of the launch is the involvement of the younger generation. DCT Abu Dhabi has partnered with local universities to introduce “Heritage Fellowships,” encouraging students to specialize in archaeology, museum curation, and cultural management.
“Our heritage is not a relic of the past; it is the compass that guides our future,” a senior representative from DCT Abu Dhabi stated during the launch. “This program is an invitation to every citizen and resident to participate in the active protection of our shared identity.”
Strengthening Global Ties
The program also aims to elevate Abu Dhabi’s status on the world stage as a leader in cultural diplomacy. By aligning with UNESCO standards for the protection of intangible heritage, the initiative seeks to add more Emirati customs to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Looking Ahead
The first phase of the program is set to begin this month with a series of community workshops and site assessments. Residents can expect to see increased activity at historical locations, as well as a new series of cultural festivals designed to celebrate the “Living Heritage” of the UAE.
As Abu Dhabi continues to evolve as a global cultural hub, this new program serves as a firm commitment to maintaining the authenticity and soul of the Emirati experience amidst a changing world.
