The Union Museum in Dubai Tells the Story of an Unforgettable Historical Moment

Exceptional experiences and artistic and entertainment performances inspired by local heritage are offered by the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority to visitors of its venues, celebrating the 54th National Day, which this year is held under the slogan "United."

This is part of the authority's support for the national #Zayed and Rashid campaign, organized by Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Media Office of the Government of Dubai, for the second consecutive year, as part of Dubai's celebrations of National Month.

Through a series of events organized from November 28 to December 3, at the Union Museum, Al Safa Art and Design Library, Al Shindagha Museum, Al Jalila Cultural Center for Children, the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, and Hatta Heritage Village, Dubai Culture aims to narrate the story of the union, highlight the values of teamwork, introduce the creativity of the Emirati people, and shed light on the authentic local customs, traditions, and culture, as well as the cultural diversity that characterizes the country, which aligns with the authority's responsibilities and efforts to establish national identity and enhance the presence of Emirati heritage on the global map.

In celebration of this occasion, the authority launched the song "Bokhalid and Borashed," written by poet Hassan Al Obaidli, composed by artist Sherifa Ahmed, and musically arranged by Zaid Adel, performed by the UAE Coral Group. The song reflects feelings of pride and appreciation for His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, may God protect him, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, may God protect him, and the pioneering achievements they have accomplished that contributed to enhancing the UAE's position on the international stage, establishing its presence at the forefront of global indicators in various sectors.

Over three days, from December 1 to 3, the Union Museum will be adorned with the colors of the UAE flag, opening its internal corridors and external courtyards to various segments of society to experience the moment of the union announcement 54 years ago, through interaction with a series of innovative stations that offer cultural experiences combining tradition and innovation. The events will include performances and artistic installations inspired by local values and culture, including a "Virtual Reality" station that will take visitors on a journey to explore the UAE's most prominent landmarks, tour future cities, and learn about the country's achievements in space, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and more.

The celebration agenda includes a series of workshops teaching visitors methods of agriculture and decorating plant and flower pots, alongside popular artistic performances presented by specialized teams in traditional military and Ayala dances and Rababah playing, among other heritage arts.

The Al Shindagha Museum, the largest heritage museum in the UAE, will gather families during the "Union Day" period, taking them on special paths where they will stop at multiple creative stations to learn about the details of local heritage through a variety of interactive workshops held next to "Dar Al Maktoum," including workshops on "Burqa loan and weaving Sadu," "making the Qaraqoor and Zafana Al Da'oon," and "silver crafting" presented by experts from the Heritage Center for Traditional Handicrafts.

The museum will also organize a workshop on "Perfumer," where participants will learn about the uses of natural ingredients and traditional remedies, while the "Perfume Making" workshop will take visitors on a journey to explore the secrets of traditional perfume making. The program also includes a "Talli Craft" workshop and a "Cup Coloring" workshop, in addition to a series of popular artistic performances that highlight the aesthetics of the "Nehma" art, Ayala, Yola, and others.

The Al Safa Art and Design Library will host, over the next two days, the "Dubai Calligraphy Beyond the Canvas" evening organized by the authority in collaboration with the Emirates Writers and Authors Union, featuring poet Sheikha Al-Mutairi, artist Shamsa Al-Jasmi, and calligrapher Ali Al-Hamadi, while Safia Al-Shahi will manage the evening, allowing visitors to explore the aesthetics of "Dubai Calligraphy" and its artistic uses, along with viewing a collection of rare pens and inkpots that will be displayed in a special exhibition held alongside the event.

The library will also host a range of artistic and interactive activities inspired by Emirati heritage, including musical performances, handicrafts, painting, open art spaces, as well as a photography corner, henna corner, and a children's council, in addition to various cultural and entertainment segments. The library will also organize a "Creativity Market" aimed at providing an opportunity for talented individuals and local brands to showcase their products inspired by local heritage.

The historic Al Fahidi neighborhood and Hatta Heritage Village will open their doors to visitors to enjoy a range of artistic and heritage performances organized by "Dubai Culture," in partnership with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai, on December 2 and 3. The Al Jalila Cultural Center for Children will present, tomorrow, a package of innovative activities, including the "Most Beautiful National Costume" competition, interactive falconry shows, henna art, in addition to traditional games and popular artistic performances presented by military and Ayala teams.