Exemplary design and craftsmanship on display at Endurance City

The event being organised by the Zayed International Prize for the Environment, the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and the World Deserts Foundation provides a platform for the display of exemplary design and craftsmanship of artisans from desert cultures and civilizations from 37 participating countries.

"We are enthusiastic about encouraging excellence, inspiring creativity, and preserving the traditions of cultures and civilizations of the desert regions," said Dr. Mohammed bin Fahad, Chairman of the Zayed Prize and Vice Chairman of the World Deserts Foundation.

"This event helps to encourage creative excellence among professional craftspeople and seeks to develop an understanding of excellence in craftsmanship among the public and to focus on traditional craft such as clay, wood and metal," Dr. bin Fahad remarked.

The handicraft industry in certain desert regions is considered among one of the key aspects of development, giving a strong sense of identity to the industry, raising the business awareness and self-esteem of small producers, and assuring the consumer that handicrafts reach high standards of quality and authenticity.

Speaking on behalf of the DTCM, Manager Events, Marwan Juma bin Beyat said, "During the desert festival, we are looking at methods to develop the handicraft industry into a more coordinated and progressive enterprise that will complement the needs of the tourism industry."

A series of soul-charging performances have been lined up, including interesting exhibitions and celebratory public spectacles in a variety of events featuring UAE and Arabian as well as international folklore artists in disciplines ranging from music, dance, theatre to visual arts and crafts.

A full program of workshops, seminars and conferences that will enable people to know more about desert life that represents a blend of simplicity and nature and the purity of spirit.