As part of a series of creative and interactive cultural experiences that embody the authenticity of the Emirati identity, Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) participated in the 30th edition of the Dubai World Cup, recently held at the Meydan Racecourse. The participation was under a strategic partnership between Dubai Culture and the Dubai Racing Club, aimed at providing an innovative platform to raise awareness about the elements of local heritage and the importance of its preservation, and to introduce event visitors to the culture and authentic values of the Emirati society. Dubai Culture's participation included a series of creative performances and interactive cultural experiences that express the essence of the community and the authenticity of the Emirati identity, offering the public an opportunity to experience and interact with them in a vibrant atmosphere. This aligns with the authority's priorities aimed at preserving the local cultural heritage and cementing its presence on the global map. Salim Al-Burki, Director of the Corporate Communication and Marketing Department at Dubai Culture, stated that the authority's participation in the Dubai World Cup contributes to building bridges between peoples and cementing the presence of culture and arts as an effective driver in building sustainable development paths. He added: 'The Dubai World Cup represents a unique model for the integration of culture and sports, as it transcends being a sporting event to transform into a living space where elements of local heritage are manifested within a rich experience that embodies the national identity and expresses the richness of our heritage and its ability to interact in a renewed global context.' Al-Burki continued: 'The authority's participation in the event reflects its efforts to support the growth of cultural and creative industries, and to highlight the vitality of the local arts scene, by presenting our cultural heritage to the global audience with innovative methods and contemporary visions that meet the aspirations of generations, in addition to providing a quality platform that showcases the capabilities of local talents in innovation and achieving excellence, enabling them to express their creativity and contributing to enhancing their presence on the international cultural scene, which cements Dubai's position as a global hub for the creative economy.' During its participation in the event, Dubai Culture presented a series of cultural tracks and activities inspired by the Dubai World Cup slogan, the most prominent of which was the immersive digital visual experience 'Equestrian Heritage', inspired by the book 'My Poems in Love of Horses' by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, which celebrated the passion for equestrianism as an intrinsic component of Emirati culture. Under the 'Roots and Beginnings' station, Emirati designer Friyal Abdel Razzaq presented 'Namus', whose details were inspired by traditional attire and handicrafts, where its embroidery and innovative patterns narrate the story of Dubai's evolution and the major transformations it has undergone that made it a model for the cities of the future. The station also included an interactive experience that sheds light on the origins of equestrian culture in the UAE and illustrates the depth of the relationship between the desert environment, the life of Bedouins, and the purebred Arabian horse. The authority also showcased in the 'Exhibition and Achievements' section a rich archive that documents the most famous horses that participated in the races, the list of winners of past editions, and the exceptional moments witnessed by the Dubai World Cup, along with the key milestones that contributed to shaping the heritage of the Dubai Racing Club, in a visual sequence that reflects the elegance of this sport and its distinct excitement and high competitiveness. In the 'Three Foundation Thoroughbred Breeds' section, the origins of the breeds from which Thoroughbred horses descended were showcased, honoring the purebred horses and their role in cementing attributes of strength and speed, and the purity of blood that distinguished the champions of races across generations. Artist Amina Al Katbi presented her artwork 'Spirit Flow', inspired by the details of authentic local culture, while artist Fatima Sultan Al Kabbi contributed a series of unique artistic works and designs inspired by equestrian heritage and the movement of horses, which she transformed into visual symbols that blend authenticity with modernity, reflecting a futuristic design vision. The authority's participation also included showcasing traditional handicrafts, including Tili embroidery, weaving, palm frond weaving, pottery, as well as leather tanning, which formed an essential part of daily life in the past. Within the framework of supporting Emirati craftswomen and highlighting their efforts in preserving traditional crafts and ensuring their sustainability and transmission to future generations, the 'Latifi' store presented a range of products, handmade items, and cultural souvenirs that express the essence of the national identity. 'Equistore' presented a comprehensive equestrian experience designed with high craftsmanship, bringing together a selection of brands that showcase standards of performance, craftsmanship, and elegance. Guests of the Dubai World Cup were treated to distinctive cooking shows that reflect the richness of Emirati cuisine, supervised by Chef Hanan Al Dullai, as well as twin chefs Abdelrahman and Maya Al Hashemi, who presented traditional authentic dishes that embody the spirit of local hospitality and express the values of generosity rooted in Emirati culture.
