Dubai takes a dive into the past

Written by Emirati Juma Khalifa Ahmed Bin Thalith Al Humairi, the book is a detailed, pictorial glossary of the local diving terms and words. It took him six years to write and he hopes it will maintain a link between today's generation and their heritage. Plans are underway to use the encyclopaedia as educational material within the national curriculum, and so seventy-nine public schools will be receiving copies of the book.

Various social groups and environmental bodies have welcomed this book as a step in the right direction to spread awareness of this age-old tradition.

Dr Abdulla Al Karam, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Director-General at the KHDA, said, "KHDA is proud to be associated with the release of EDA's encyclopaedia. The book is bound to be of interest to everyone and not just students. We hope to work continuously to raise awareness of our heritage and the traditions of our ancestors."

He added: "KHDA welcomes any organisation that would like to enhance the knowledge and education of the community in aspects of the country's history, culture & heritage."

Teachers in Dubai's public schools helped the author with his research for the encyclopaedia. HE Fatma Al Marri, CEO of the Dubai Schools Agency, said:

"Teaching this encyclopaedia as part of the curriculum is a positive method to reinforce the sense of national identity. It is a vehicle for the younger generation to connect with their roots and learn from the hardships of their ancestors."

Judging from his travels in other GCC countries, the author Juma Khalifa Ahmed Bin Thalith Al Humairi, said:

"I feel the encyclopaedia will bring together the interests of all the seafaring Arab nations. We share a love for the sea and this book will help us understand each other better. I appreciate that it is being used as an academic tool to educate the children about their past. A lesson in history helps to foster a better understanding of the present and hopefully leads to a brighter future."