DTCM-managed heritage sites educating visitors about Emirati traditions

The shows are part of its month-long Heritage programmes for the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF-2005).

The shows underway at the Dubai Museum depict the various handicrafts including embroidery, knitting and incense which were widely used in the olden days.

According to Ms. Ayesha Mubarak, Manager Dubai Museum, "The activities at the Dubai Museum are aimed at educating the visitors to the cultures and traditions of the UAE. We have different folklore groups of the UAE presenting local dances while visitors get a taste of the Arabian hospitality in the form of Arabic coffee and dates which are offered along with some gifts by the department."

The Hatta Heritage Village is showcasing the activities that revolve around the role played by the guardian of the Fort and the method of receiving instructions and orders from the Ruler of the emirate. Daily activities that were carried at the Fort are also on display.

Every Friday, the Hatta Village displays the art of 'Al Tanoor' the traditional method of cooking by using the traditional oven used in the olden days.

Every Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, well known traditional folklore groups of the UAE in addition to children present their shows. In addition, traditional competitions are also being held on these days for children who are distributed prizes and gifts.

Handicraft shows relating to blacksmith, engraving and traditional foods too are being presented with a number of women preparing traditional sweets and bread which are also being sold.

Children are also being taught handicrafts by elders at the Village while traditional materials for buildings in the olden days using primary materials like pebbles, clay and rope are being demonstrated by artisans.

An exhibition in conjunction with the Women's Association is also being held in Hatta, which contains several hand made items.

Mr. Khalid Ali bin Gharib, Manager Hatta Heritage Village, said: "The whole idea of the shows is to educate the residents and tourists about our various ancient handicrafts. The shows have been a great hit with the visitors who are keen to know about the ancient methods of handicrafts, cooking and stitching among others. We have tried to make the shows as interactive as possible so that visitors can get a first hand experience of the same."

Backed by an all-time record AED 4.2 million budget and AED 1 million prizes for public competitions, the DTCM is leaving no stone unturned to make the 2005 edition of the DSF memorable to visitors.

Philips, Patchi, Paris Gallery and IFFCO have extended their inspirational support to the DTCM for this year's DSF.