A cultural leap in the Eastern region

H.E. Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage revealed that a number of cultural projects are being carried out by the Authority in Al Ain. He stressed that maintaining the equilibrium between our traditions and modernity is one of the main challenges that face the cultural scene.

H.E. mentioned that Al Ain will witness the launching of Art Centre that comprises art workshop, studios for artists, a hall for teaching Arabic calligraphy, photography and exhibitions halls for both professional and amateur artists.

He said that all members of the community will be active and influential in the cultural scene. Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage will provide the appropriate premises to host cultural activities and logistic support to make a crucial change in the intellectual scene in Al Ain.

H.E. revealed also the plans of establishing a Music Hall in the Cultural Compound which will be launched in Al Quatara Oasis. This comes in the framework of reviving the cultural tourist role of Al Ain. The traditional handicrafts market will be renovated. This goes in line with the Authority's strategy of preserving the cultural and heritage of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. These handicrafts are considered aesthetic symbols and artistic masterpieces of historical values.

Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage is planning to launch a Data Centre in Al Jahili Fort. It will include a photography exhibition that depicts the history of Al Ain. Moreover, it will provide information about the heritage, cultural sites, government offices and cultural activities in the city.

H.E. Mohamad Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Director General of Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage, said that temporary locations are allotted to host various cultural and heritage activities in Al Ain. Meanwhile, an appropriate place is under construction. Some historical buildings are also under renovation to host cultural activities. Security measures, parking lots and stores are taking care of.

He mentioned that the art workshop aims to activate many targets. It will host visiting artists and organize art courses to encourage creative talents in the city.

He added that visiting artists and cultural activities such as evenings of poetry reading will definitely promote cultural tourism. Al Jahili Fort will be a significant cultural centre. On the other hand, renovation of old houses such as Hadi Al Darmaki's house and Al Jahili Mosuque have already been completed. They have all been done in accord with international standards set by the UNESCO and cooperation with experts in the field. Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage is planning to rehabilitate Al Ain National Museum and Al Ain Palace Museum to activate this cultural and heritage role. The first phase of the study will be accomplished next September.

In addition to all that, Al Ain Classical Music Festival will be promoted and enhanced to host the best Arabic and Western orchestras and musicians who will perform for a whole week at various historical sites of the city.