On 16 and 17 September at Manarat Al Saadiyat, the event will delve into the rich heritage and collective memory of Gulf communities that have been intricately linked to the sea
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, 12 September 2024: The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced that the 12th edition of the GCC Heritage and Oral History Conference will take place at Manarat Al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi on 16 and 17 September. Held under the theme “Shared Gulf Maritime Heritage”, the event will reflect on the deep connection of the Gulf communities with the sea, which has served as a vital source of sustenance, livelihood, and inspiration throughout history.
The conference will build a narrative of Gulf communities’ relationship with the sea, presenting a comprehensive picture drawn by divers, pearl merchants, sailors, shipbuilders, and Gulf astronomy and navigation creators. Participants, including specialists and researchers in the field of Gulf maritime heritage, will review shared performing arts, traditions, and practices related to pearl diving and trade.
The GCC Heritage and Oral History Conference highlights DCT Abu Dhabi’s dedication to safeguarding the shared heritage and oral history of the Gulf Arab states. The sessions and themes will enhance the visibility and discovery of practitioners in maritime performing arts, enhancing their efforts and linking shared Gulf legacy with the journey of maritime heritage and sustainable Gulf development.
The conference will engage universities in the GCC states, as well as Gulf associations and institutions specialised in maritime performing arts, to highlight traditional crafts including shipbuilding, fishing gear manufacturing, diving, food industries related to marine resources, and preservation methods.
During the sessions, there will be discussions on maritime trade relations between the Gulf states and other countries, maritime trade routes, and import and export materials in the region. In addition to spotlighting the science of astronomy and its importance and uses in maritime navigation, the conference will also feature live performances of maritime performing arts, including the art of “Al-Nahma” (traditional maritime singing).
The annual GCC Heritage and Oral History Conference highlights aspects of the shared oral heritage of the Gulf Cooperation Council states and safeguard this legacy. The conference focuses on the culture and traditions of Gulf communities, especially the common aspects in traditional crafts, social practices, performing arts, and literature. By connecting current and future generations with the heritage of their ancestors, the conference ensures this heritage remains a driving force behind cultural development initiatives and comprehensive sustainability that achieves the aspirations of Gulf societies for a promising tomorrow of development.
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About the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi:
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors and its creative industries, fuelling economic progress and helping to achieve Abu Dhabi’s wider global ambitions.
By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate’s position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate’s potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies and systems to support the culture and tourism industries.
DCT Abu Dhabi’s vision is defined by the emirate’s people, heritage and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought.
For more information about the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the destination, please visit: dct.gov.ae and visitabudhabi.ae
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