AUS students honor the Emirati cultural heritage at the 52nd UAE Union Day
Sharjah, November 23, 2023
American University of Sharjah (AUS) celebrated the 52nd UAE Union Day, marking the occasion with a display of cultural richness and student talent in a special event held on campus, organized by the Office of Student Affairs and the Emirati Cultural Club.
Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS, inaugurated the event. Accompanied by His Excellency Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Culture, Sheikha Bodour toured an art gallery that offered a glimpse into the UAE heritage. The Art Gallery showcased a diverse collection of 18 artworks created by AUS students, capturing the essence of the UAE. The pieces range from captivating photography featuring Khorfakkan, Sharjah, Burj Khalifa and traditional Emirati festivities to meticulously crafted sketches and paintings. The gallery also featured five graphite works by AUS alumna Hiyam Al Zaroni and two paintings by the talented artist Arwa. Adding a touch of uniqueness and vitality, the gallery also boasted three Emirati-themed setups designed by Dkan UAE within its space.
She also visited various student businesses and vendor stands at the event, where she engaged with young entrepreneurs, acknowledging their innovative contributions to the event and the broader cultural landscape of the UAE.
“On this Union Day, as we pay tribute to the UAE’s Founding Fathers and highlight the nation’s great achievements throughout the 52 years since it’s been founded, we put special emphasis on our Emirati students’ and alumni’s talents through activities and performances. Our alumni are performing on stage, student business startups are featured in the traditional shops and the works of our student and alumni talents in art will be displayed in the art gallery. I am truly proud of our students’ accomplishments as they progress alongside the nation,” said Haifa Ismail, Director of Student Leadership and Engagement at AUS.
The event also featured Emirati music, a stirring rendition of the national anthem by the Sharjah Police Band and poetic tributes to Emirati culture.
A special musical collaboration featured AUS students Khalifa Albah and Omar Alali, who delivered a soulful performance of an Emirati song, blending piano and guitar melodies. The audience was further treated to a live performance by AUS alumnus and singer Rashid Alnuaimi. The highlight of the musical performances was the Emirati band Alshaer, whose performance showcased the traditional Razf and Yola artistry, followed by the Liwa Band weaving through the audience with traditional Emirati performances.
“This celebration is a testament to the strong cultural bonds and creative spirit at AUS. It was inspiring to see the community come together to commemorate our nation’s history and achievements,” said Yousef Mansour Algargawi, President of the Emirati Cultural Club.
The event sponsors included Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) as event strategic partner, Procter and Gamble in the capacity of gold sponsor and Emirates airlines contributing as the raffle sponsor.
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Attached Images:
1-6 Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS, during her inauguration of the AUS event in celebration of the 52nd UAE Union Day