Qasr Al Hosn Festival reflects themes of allegiance

HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister visited Qasr Al Hosn Festival, which runs until March 9th. The event marks the 250th anniversary of the construction of Qasr Al Hosn. Sheikh Abdullah attended the folklore shows, which highlighted the dominant local traditions and customs of the UAE and are usually performed during the National Day and Eid celebrations. The UAE Foreign Minister also toured the heritage shows being featured at the festival. They reflect the UAE narrative history from tribal society to young nation state, demonstrating the ancient norms and ways of life of the forefathers who lived in the desert, urban, agricultural and marine environments. The shows embody the uniqueness, originality and determination of the forefathers to survive and succeed in harsh climates and make a better living for themselves and their families. Sheikh Abdullah expressed his satisfaction about the exhibition noting that it reflected the allegiance, sense of belonging and pride of the UAE's national identity. He was briefed about the heritage and handicrafts items being featured at the festival, especially the boat building, sailing boats, fishing equipment, hunting activities, falcon hunting and saluki dog breeding. He was also briefed about the jewellery and ornamental work, including Emirati women's traditional attire and henna made by Emirati women. The festival presents a historic portrait of the Qasr Al Hosn through the living memories of the population, photographs and other artefacts. "Qasr Al Hosn's heritage treasures reflect the themes of belonging and allegiance to the historic leaders, who set the foundations of this country. The Qasr Al Hosn Festival aims to honour those leaders," said Sheikh Abdullah. He stressed the important role of media to continually revive this heritage and increase awareness amongst Emiratis about their heritage and identity. Sheikh Abdullah further underlined that protecting heritage is good for the UAE economy, boosting tourism activities, as well as preserving culture and national identity in an increasingly globalised world.