The United Arab Emirates has successfully inscribed four new elements on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This cultural triumph was achieved during the 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, held in the Indian capital of New Delhi. The inscription of these elements marks a culmination of the State's efforts to preserve its cultural heritage and showcase it on the international stage.
The inscribed elements include the national file "Al-Ahalla" (the art of storytelling), as well as the joint Arabic files "Bishat" (men's cloak), "Zalfa al-Aroos" (bride's dance), and "Kohl" (traditional eyeliner). This highlights the depth of cultural ties linking the UAE to its Arab and Gulf surroundings.
In a particularly significant achievement for the country, the Committee approved the transfer of the "Sadu" (traditional weaving) element from the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding to the Representative List. This was made possible by meeting international standards and the results of long-term safeguarding programs that have protected this art from extinction and integrated it as a living part of cultural life.
This transfer is an international recognition of the success of the measures taken by the UAE to ensure the sustainability of this element and its transmission to future generations.
Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of Culture, stated: "The inscription of four new elements on the UNESCO lists is a significant step in the UAE's journey to protect our intangible cultural heritage. This reflects our commitment to enhancing the global presence of our cultural elements. The successful transfer of the 'Sadu' file to the Representative List also demonstrates the success of joint efforts between relevant authorities and society to ensure the continuity of this ancient art and its transmission to future generations."
He added: "We will continue to work on documenting and safeguarding our living heritage, which will enhance the national identity and contribute to establishing the UAE's position as a leading intellectual and cultural hub in the region and the world."
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, commented on this achievement: "This exceptional success reflects Abu Dhabi's unwavering commitment to safeguarding living cultural heritage and celebrating it as a cornerstone of our national identity. Through long-term programs, community partnerships, and festivals that integrate these traditions into the fabric of daily life, we have succeeded in ensuring that practices such as 'Al-Ahalla,' 'Bishat,' 'Zalfa al-Aroos,' and 'Kohl' remain an active part of our shared experience."
He added: "The successful transfer of the 'Sadu' file is a source of pride for every Emirati, as it highlights how the efforts of artisans with the necessary knowledge and skills, along with the younger generations who have inherited this expertise, contribute to the revitalization of this heritage element, transforming it into a vibrant expression that garners international appreciation."
He said: "As we continue to share Abu Dhabi's rich cultural narrative with the world, we will remain committed to empowering local communities, nurturing creativity, and ensuring our heritage is preserved, practiced, and confidently passed down to future generations as a source of pride for them."
It is recalled that these achievements strengthen the UAE's leading position in the Arab world in the field of safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. To date, 19 elements have been inscribed on the Representative List: Falconry, Sadu, Taghrooda, Ayala, Majlis, Arabic coffee, Al-Rifah, Palm, Aflaj, Camel racing, Arabic calligraphy, Hadd al-Ibil, Tili, Haris, Henna, Al-Ahalla, Bishat, Kohl, and Zalfa al-Aroos. One element, "Al-Azi," is inscribed on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding. Efforts to nominate more national and joint elements continue in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, the Ministry of Culture, the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALECSO), and relevant heritage bodies.
