Hands-On Creativity for Children

Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children presents Bait Al Khazaf, a dedicated space for pottery and ceramics. Designed to inspire young artists, the workshops include pottery-making, painting, and performing arts. Children can shape clay on a wheel, decorate candles, and design costumes while learning from theatre experts. The Centre for Musical Arts leads music sessions, and families can participate in a collaborative mural.

Ceramic Art Exhibition

Curated by Kamal Al Zoubi, Head of the Pottery Department at Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children, Bait Al Khazaf features works by 55 Emirati and UAE-based ceramicists. Highlights include:

• Communication and Connection by Emirati artist Shamsa Juma, reflecting her search for perfection.
• Ibahar (Sailing) by Abdulla Al Hammadi, inspired by pearl diving.
• Calligraphy Mural by Pakistani artist Adeel Umar.
• Cultural Diffusion by Australian artist Alex Rawson, exploring cross-cultural exchange.
• Oryx the Survivor by Sudanese artist Amani Badur, symbolizing resilience.

The People of Determination Exhibition showcases inspiring works by artists with disabilities, highlighting their creativity and perseverance.

Literature and Visual Arts

Dubai Public Library’s School of Life initiative offers workshops such as:

• Ruq’ah Calligraphy by Mohammed Al Tamimi.
• Doors and Wooden Carvings by Dr Saeed Abdullah Al Wail, exploring Emirati craftsmanship.
• Sikka Folktales by Magdy ElKafrawy, bringing local stories to life on canvas.

Theatre and Folktales

The World Stage Design House (House 203) hosts theatre workshops, including:

• Puppet Workshop by Jacqui George, where children create shadow puppets.
• Lighting Workshop by Youmna Aboelella, teaching stage lighting techniques.
• Costume Design by Salma Lakharouti, using recycled materials.

At Masterpieces House – House of Folklore Tales (House 355), students from the Ministry of Education’s 2024 summer camp present artworks inspired by Kharareef (local folktales), blending tradition with modern creativity.

Festival Partners

The Sikka Art & Design Festival is organized in collaboration with Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police, Dubai Civil Defence, and the Emirates Council for Rural Development.

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The ‘House of Saffron’

This year’s edition introduces the ‘House of Saffron’ (House 416), a dedicated space highlighting seven saffron-inspired works. Among them, Fatima Alsuwaidi’s An Exploration Through Poetry and Traditions examines the cultural significance of saffron, while Saffron’s Prints by Mariam Bayat explores its relationship with nature. Omar Al Othman’s documentary Saffron in UAE delves into its heritage through interviews with a perfumer, a saffron vendor, and a poet.

A collective from One Third Studio—Amna Bin Bishr, Duna Al Ajlan, and Dania Al Ajlan—presents a saffron-inspired tableware collection. Meanwhile, Roudhah Al Mazrouei’s Terrain captures a UAE village landscape, and Roudha Bu Abdulla’s Saffron-Infused Emirati Dishes illustrates six traditional recipes featuring saffron. Taqwa Alnaqbi showcases Preserved Saffron, further emphasizing the spice’s cultural role.

Culinary and Musical Experiences

Visitors can enjoy saffron-inspired dishes from nine renowned chefs, including Maitha Warshaw, Arwa Lootah, and Halima Bahlooq, at the ‘Supper Club,’ where tableware and furniture reflect the warmth of the saffron flower. Additionally, 51 food stalls, such as Farmers, Midori, and Wakame, will offer a variety of cuisines.

The festival also includes over 100 live music performances featuring artists like Maryam Omran Sajwani, Rashid Waleed Al Marzouqi, and Kamal Musallam. Notable bands such as The One-Man Band, Nafas, and The Fizz Group will take the stage. Six orchestral performances will feature the Firdaus Orchestra led by A.R. Rahman, alongside ensembles like the Emirates Youth Symphony Orchestra and the UAE Philharmonic Orchestra by ToDA.

Art Installations and Cultural Highlights

Sikka showcases Dubai’s history through Wind Canvas, a project featuring three collaborative works inspired by maritime trade. Artists Khawla Darwish and Rashid Al Mulla created the first sail, drawing from Dubai’s Fish Roundabout, while Ghada Mehdi and German Fernandez envisioned a journey of memories. Hessa Al Awadhi and Maryam Al Ramsi crafted the third sail, merging digital and traditional art to reflect Al Shindagha’s commercial legacy.

Festival-goers can also experience Creatives on Wheels, a shadow puppetry performance by Boubaker Boukhari, Lina Younes, and Samer Arzouni. The story, inspired by Dubai Creek, follows a crocodile and a bird in a tale of unity, performed in Arabic with live music.

Supporting Local Creativity

Sikka Art 2025 features more than 50 retail stores, including From The Arabs, which preserves cultural heritage through fragrances, and Tropicfeel, a sustainable fashion brand. Other notable stores include Atuyah Studios, Creams Botanics, and Yello for Sustainable Abayas, the region’s first circular, zero-waste abaya brand.

The Ahlan W Sahlan Creative Studio will present innovative designs from brands like Clique, Elain Knit, and The Noor Creative. The festival runs until 9 February and is supported by Dubai Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police, Dubai Civil Defence, and the Emirates Council for Rural Development.

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Celebrating creativity and heritage in the UAE desert from 4 to 12 January 2025.

Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has officially announced the dates for the fourth edition of the Al Marmoom: Film in the Desert festival. Scheduled to take place from 4 to 12 January 2025 at the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, this year’s festival will operate under the theme “Where Stories Come to Life.”

The event underscores Dubai Culture’s commitment to advancing Dubai’s cultural vision by fostering an environment that inspires filmmakers, highlights diverse stories, and cements the emirate’s position as a global cultural hub.

A Platform for Creativity and Sustainability

The festival will feature a diverse programme aimed at promoting sustainability in the film industry. It will serve as a collaborative platform for film professionals, offering a space to share experiences and knowledge. Key highlights include an array of activities such as film screenings, live performances, workshops, panel discussions, public art exhibits, immersive experiences, and competitions.

“This initiative not only enriches the creative ecosystem but also bridges the gap between local heritage and modern storytelling,” said a Dubai Culture representative.

Iconic Design Inspired by the Al Ghaf Tree

This year’s festival layout draws inspiration from the UAE’s national tree, the Al Ghaf, a symbol of resilience and heritage. The design features a central trunk-like pathway leading to branches showcasing creative works. Vibrant murals, digital art, and projections will highlight emerging talents, offering a rich and immersive experience for attendees.

Spotlighting Filmmakers and Emirati Traditions

As part of the festival, the Al Marmoom Short-Film Competition will showcase works from Emirati, GCC, Arab, and international filmmakers. The competition includes categories for documentaries, animation, live-action films, and AI-generated films.

The festival will also dedicate space to celebrating Emirati heritage, with displays of traditional crafts, cultural performances, and artistic works inspired by the UAE’s cinematic history. Visitors can immerse themselves in these exhibits, reflecting the Authority’s commitment to preserving and sharing the emirate’s legacy.

Mark Your Calendar

The 4th Al Marmoom: Film in the Desert promises to be an engaging blend of creativity, culture, and innovation. Visitors of all ages can enjoy its enriching programme, which includes homegrown F&B concepts and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Event Details:

• What: Al Marmoom: Film in the Desert Festival
• When: 4–12 January 2025
• Where: Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai, UAE

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Over the past year, museum curator Fatema Al Hammadi has embarked on a journey across the UAE to collect these first-hand accounts. Her research took her from the oasis of Al Ain to the rugged mountains of Fujairah and the remote coastal villages of Ras Al Khaimah. Throughout this journey, she uncovered the deep roots of the UAE’s development in the resilience and leadership of Emirati women.

“I am not talking about the recent past, but ancient history as well,” Fatema explains, in anticipation of Emirati Women’s Day. “We noticed how the Emirati woman has always been an active participant in the community. In the simplest terms, it was our mothers who really took care of our communities.

“When our forefathers left home for months at a time for pearl diving or maritime trade trips, it was the mothers who took care of the homes. They raised the family and, in some cases, were the family doctor, using the surrounding herbs as medicine. Today, we see Emirati women excelling at every level in the UAE and globally, but that essence of leadership is rooted in our history.”

Through these interviews, Fatema has also been able to shed light on the social and cultural dynamics of historical Emirati communities. “A lot of that is determined by geographical locations,” she says. “When we talk about the UAE’s heritage, it’s not just one thing.

“There is a rich maritime heritage because of the communities that lived by the sea, and there is also a land heritage because of those who lived in the mountains. These environments are very different and have limited resources, so these stories showed me how our past communities were able to endure by adapting and thriving.”

The Zayed National Museum will also emphasize the unifying efforts of UAE Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, in forming the federation in 1971.

“We have a shared language, heritage and history – and that’s what our father, Sheikh Zayed, was able to achieve,” Fatema says. “He united us all. Going on these expeditions really reinforced that for me because no matter where I went, we all followed the same values that Sheikh Zayed taught us.”

Amna Al Hammadi, the museum’s audience engagement lead, is focused on outreach efforts to involve Emirati senior citizens and people of determination. She highlights that Emirati voices, which have been largely inaccessible until now, will play a significant role in shaping the museum’s curatorial direction.

“This is also personal to me as we have mothers here in the museum who have children of determination, and we always want to make sure they are involved in everything,” Amna shares. “I believe that museums and cultural institutions can play a more proactive role in engaging with this important community, as well as the elderly.

“Too often, these responsibilities are left to schools or other organisations, which view a trip to a museum as just a checklist item. We want to change that by personally engaging with them and creating experiences tailored for them, as the museum also belongs to them.”

Amna also notes that a permanent programme for people of determination is in the planning stages, developed with input from families, educators, and curators. “I want people to know that there will be a programme or event specifically for them at the museum so they can plan accordingly,” she says. “And these programmes will be for the whole family, meaning that parents can be there with their children to experience the museum together.”

Engaging with Emirati senior citizens is another priority for Amna, who acknowledges the rarity of such exchanges within international museums. “It’s special for a national museum to discuss events with visitors who actually experienced them,” Amna says. “That’s why I consider our Emirati senior citizens the most fortunate of all because they truly understand what happened and their insights need to be nourished and cherished.”

The involvement of Fatema and Amna in the Zayed National Museum’s opening is a deeply personal journey for both. For Fatema, it represents the fulfillment of a lifelong quest to understand her homeland’s history.

“I’ve always been curious about our history since I was a child,” Fatema recalls. “I remember going with my mother to visit the elderly in our community and I loved hearing their stories about Sheikh Zayed. I even remember seeing him pass by our neighbourhoods when he visited Al Dhafra.

“All these stories about true leadership and how this once-desert land became green inspired me to learn more about Emirati history. So coming here after finishing university just feels like a blessing.”

Amna, a journalism and communication graduate, believes the Zayed National Museum is a story worth telling in its own right. “A lot of the time, the UAE is known for achieving global standards and exceeding them,” she says. “When it comes to museums, I hope we can now set benchmarks for their role in the community.

“We want to show that you can bring in people who might not traditionally visit cultural institutions. We need to fully integrate them into the cultural fabric, and this involves not only creating programmes but also ensuring that the museum’s offerings are accessible to all, regardless of their background or circumstances.”

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Faezeh Mohammed Hassan is renowned for her plein-air painting technique, a style that emphasizes working outdoors to capture natural light and color. Her works are celebrated for their dynamic portrayal of the UAE’s landscapes, infused with bright, warm hues that reflect the country’s unique atmosphere. Drawing inspiration from the works of realist German painters such as Gustave Bauernfeind, Ludwig Deutsch, and Rudolf Hellgrewe, Hassan masterfully blends elements of realism and Orientalist art to create pieces that are both visually striking and culturally resonant.

The exhibition will take place in the elegant lobby of the Four Seasons, where visitors can immerse themselves in Hassan’s artistic interpretation of Emirati heritage.

Among the standout pieces is a tribute to Ousha bint Khalifa Al Suwaidi, the iconic Emirati poet affectionately known as Ousha Al Sha’er (Ousha the Poet) and Fatat Al-Arab (Girl of the Arabs). Ousha’s groundbreaking contributions to Nabati poetry have left a lasting legacy in the Arab literary world, making her a symbol of strength and creativity for women in the region. Hassan’s homage to Ousha captures not only her poetic genius but also her role as a trailblazer who broke through the barriers of a male-dominated field.

Complementing the exhibition, the Four Seasons will offer an Afternoon Tea experience, featuring pastries and treats inspired by Hassan’s artworks. This unique culinary offering is designed to provide guests with a deeper connection to the themes explored in the exhibition, allowing them to savor the flavors of Emirati culture while admiring the artistry on display.

This event is more than just an art exhibit; it is a celebration of the powerful impact Emirati women have had on their culture and society. Through the lens of Faezeh Mohammed Hassan’s art, visitors will gain insight into the lives, traditions, and legacies of the women who have shaped the UAE’s past and continue to influence its future.

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Weaving: The Art of Al-Sadu

The Tradition

Al-Sadu is a traditional form of weaving practiced by Bedouin women in the UAE. This intricate craft involves creating geometric patterns on fabric using wool and cotton. Historically, Al-Sadu was essential for making tents, rugs, and clothing, reflecting the nomadic lifestyle of the Bedouins.

Keeping the Tradition Alive

Modern artisans are reviving Al-Sadu by incorporating its designs into contemporary fashion and home décor. Workshops and cultural programs, often supported by organizations like the UAE’s Ministry of Culture, are helping to preserve this art form. These initiatives not only teach the traditional techniques but also encourage innovation to make Al-Sadu relevant in today’s market.

Pottery: The Craft of Al-Fukhari

The Tradition

Pottery in the UAE dates back thousands of years, with Al-Fukhari being one of the most enduring forms. Traditionally, Emirati potters created functional items such as water jugs, storage jars, and cooking pots using locally sourced clay. These items were often decorated with simple, yet elegant, geometric patterns.

Keeping the Tradition Alive

Today, Emirati potters are blending ancient techniques with modern aesthetics. Artisans are creating pieces that serve both functional and decorative purposes, often showcased in galleries and cultural festivals. Educational programs and pottery studios are also instrumental in teaching the younger generation the skills needed to continue this ancient craft.

Jewelry Making: The Art of Al-Sarm

The Tradition

Jewelry making, or Al-Sarm, has been a significant part of Emirati culture, symbolizing social status and wealth. Traditional Emirati jewelry is characterized by intricate designs and the use of precious metals and gemstones. Pieces such as bangles, necklaces, and rings often feature motifs inspired by nature and Islamic art.

Keeping the Tradition Alive

Artisans are preserving the legacy of Al-Sarm by creating jewelry that combines traditional designs with contemporary trends. Many designers are gaining international recognition for their work, which pays homage to Emirati heritage while appealing to modern tastes. Additionally, exhibitions and jewelry-making classes help sustain interest and skill in this traditional craft.

Supporting the traditional Emirati Artisans

Cultural Institutions and Initiatives

Numerous cultural institutions and initiatives in the UAE are dedicated to preserving traditional crafts. The Sharjah Institute for Heritage, for instance, plays a crucial role in documenting and promoting these art forms. Festivals like the Al Ain Cultural Festival provide platforms for artisans to showcase their work, fostering a greater appreciation for Emirati heritage.

The Role of Modern Technology

Technology is also aiding in the preservation and evolution of traditional crafts. Digital platforms enable artisans to reach a global audience, while online tutorials and virtual workshops make learning these crafts more accessible. This blend of tradition and technology ensures that these ancient art forms can thrive in the modern world.

Conclusion

Traditional Emirati crafts like weaving, pottery, and jewelry making are vital aspects of the UAE’s cultural heritage. Through the dedication of modern artisans and the support of cultural institutions, these crafts continue to flourish. By embracing both tradition and innovation, the UAE is ensuring that its rich cultural legacy is preserved for future generations.

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The initiative’s agenda includes six lectures to be delivered by a selection of cultural experts, who will address various topics, including Emirati etiquette and the nation’s role in promoting values of tolerance. It also sheds light on the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s life story, as well as the importance of scientific research and the NLA’s part in maintaining it.

The programme commences on 16 May with the ‘Heritage and Emirati Values’ lecture, which will explore the profound impact of Emirati decorum on national identity, highlighting its vital role in reinforcing community values and supporting state policies designed to cultivate a generation steeped in authenticity. The lecture will also examine the principal aspects of Emirati etiquette, its influence on shaping the character of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and its contributions to the founding of the UAE.

The programme will also feature ‘Scientific Research Methods’ on 3 July, and the ‘Emirati Women’s Day’ lecture scheduled for 28 August to celebrate the significant achievements and notable advancements made by Emirati women over the years. On 20 September, an introductory lecture will underscore the pivotal role of the National Library and Archives in safeguarding the state’s documentary heritage, as well as detailing its vision, mission, and the services it offers to researchers and the broader public. ‘Gems from Zayed’s Sayings’ on 1 November will delve into the life of the late Sheikh Zayed, his instrumental role in the establishment of the union, his impact on the local community, and the traits of his compassionate, philanthropic personality. Finally, the ‘Tolerance in the Emirati Community’ lecture on 15 November will discuss the UAE’s leadership in promoting values of tolerance, peace, pluralism, and inclusivity.

These lectures are part of a collaborative effort by Dubai Culture and the National Library and Archives, to activate community participation and strengthen the connection of future generations with Emirati heritage. They will be conducted in Arabic and broadcast free of charge to the community via Microsoft Teams, with live translation to sign language for People of Determination.

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Hatta Cultural Nights highlights the history, customs, music, and poetry of the Emirati people and will run from December 21, 2022, through January 1, 2023.

The event exhibits regional emotions and the culture of Hatta’s hilly surroundings. The Supreme Committee to Oversee the Development of Hatta is hosting it at the Hatta Heritage Village, which just underwent extensive restoration. A part of Dubai Culture’s support for the Dubai Destinations programme is this multi-cultural event.

The festival’s various activities, according to Mariam Al Tamimi, acting director of Dubai Culture’s Heritage Sites Department: “Hatta Cultural Nights spotlights the nature and rich history of Hatta, like customs, traditions, and cultural heritage, to strengthen its position on the map of cultural tourism.”

The audience will be able to experience performances by the local bands of “Alharbiya” and “Al Rababa,” as well as distinguishing folklore and artistic expression. The festival will feature various more traditional performances in addition to evenings of Arabic poetry delivered by a group of Emirati poets.

The event will partner with the Sheikha Maitha bint Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for People of Determination in Hatta to display artwork created by people with determination and host a local market for traditional handicrafts sold by neighborhood family businesses. Various children’s entertainment alternatives will also be available, including a section featuring traditional Emirati games.

Hatta Cultural Nights is a Dubai Culture initiative that seeks to empower the community, advance cultural tourism in the area, and highlight Hatta’s history, customs, and natural surroundings. In order to encourage the next generation to be original, creative, and proud of their Emirati heritage, Dubai is actively promoting culture.

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Under the partnership, Secret City Trails, a Lisbon-based start-up that specialises in designing fun games to inspire people to get out and explore their cities, will collaborate with Al Shindagha Museum’s team to create the Dubai Cultural Treasures Discovery Trails. It will be a coordinated and exciting interactive discovery experience that will have visitors solve puzzles, answer questions related to the site, and learn about unique stories about Emirati culture, following riddles from one secret place to another as they explore elements of the Historical Al Shindagha Neighbourhood they may have been unsuspectingly passing by or they had not explored yet.

Commenting on this project, Maryam Mudhaffar Ahli, Project Manager at the Museums Department at Dubai Culture, said: “At Dubai Culture, we are keen to engage with the public through exploring the rich cultural stories that Dubai holds among its neighbourhoods by stimulating the active participation of the general public and activating partnerships with the public and private sectors. As the Authority is the Official Culture Supporter of Expo 2020 Dubai, this initiative comes within the interactive events and activities that we have prepared to enrich the experience of Expo visitors in line with our vision to strengthen Dubai’s position as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent.”

Ahli added: “Helping the community, to explore and connect with Emirati cultural heritage, and creating engaging interactive learning experiences is paramount. Al Shindagha Museum plays an important role in documenting this cultural heritage and is of great significance due to the fact that it is located in Al Shindagha Historical Neighbourhood, one of Dubai’s main historical neighbourhoods that witnessed the stages of the emirate’s emergence and prosperity. Through our partnership with Secret City Trails and Dubai Tourism, we will offer an engaging experience that will allow museum visitors to explore the area, its houses, and galleries in a fun and unforgettable way, deepening the understanding of the rising generations of the past and its relationship to the contemporary Emirati identity.”

Ahli stressed that the fun walking trails are a safe exploratory activity, and precautions can be maintained at all times. Anyone can access the experience through their smartphones, without having to engage with any other device, and the experience can either be enjoyed in groups of up to five people or individually.

Based on its cultural mission, Dubai Culture celebrates the emirate’s rich heritage and past and is committed to preserving, protecting and passing it on to generations to come, ensuring it is available everywhere and for everyone and stimulating feelings of pride and national belonging in them.

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