Dubai Culture launches first edition of Hatta Cultural Nights

In line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has announced the launch of the first edition of ‘Hatta Cultural Nights’. The cultural programme will feature festive events and activities that are designed to introduce the community to the cultural fabric of the Emirate and highlight the richness and values it embodies.

The event will be held at Wadi Hatta Park in the city of Hatta and will coincide with the 25th edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) on December 26, and will continue until 11th January 2020, from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm - Sunday to Thursday, and from 4:00 pm to 12:00 am - Friday and Saturday.

This launch reflects the vision of Dubai Culture to safeguard the authentic national identity and glorious cultural heritage of the Emirate and make people familiar with it. With a particular focus on Emirati handicrafts and folklore, the programme will seek to uphold the traditions and pass them on to the coming generations. Hatta Cultural Nights will hold a variety of cultural and entertainment activities that will underpin the splendor of Emirati heritage and culture, and work as a magnet for tourists from the UAE and neighboring countries.

Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture, said, “There is a deep cultural and heritage value to this initiative, which is being held for the first time. It is a distinctive demonstration that reflects the spirit of oneness and diversity that Dubai as an Emirate exemplifies. It upholds our vision of highlighting the richness that people from various countries living here impart to the overall cultural identity of the Emirate. This is also reflective of the value of tolerance that UAE has adopted since its establishment. It provides visitors an opportunity to explore Dubai’s traditional side and this in turn helps us reinforce Dubai's position as an epicenter of culture, an incubator of creativity, and a thriving hub of talent.”

Badri added, “Hatta Cultural Nights as an initiative seeks to shed light on the Emirati heritage and underline its contribution in shaping the present and the future of the Emirate. It also aligns with the plans to develop Hatta into a cultural and tourism destination and Dubai Plan 2021 that intends to make Dubai a preferred place to live, work, and visit.” 

Hatta Cultural Nights will feature folkloric paintings, folk songs, and folk dances, which will be presented by artists from not only the UAE but across the world in an effort to build constructive cultural bridges between people of various countries. 

Fine art exhibitions will showcase artwork created by the people of determination, along with the market that will feature a unique collection of homemade brands, traditional Emirati food, and sweets from Emirati cuisine. Majalis for Senior Emiratis (male & female) will also participate to share their experiences in culture and heritage with the future generation. 

There will also be a Gallery of Antique Doors, wherein different sections will tell a story that symbolises an era in the Emirate's ancient history. There will also be poetry evenings along with fun Emirati folk games, and workshops for children including activities like face painting, henna painting, heritage competitions, and more. The overarching goal is to promote happiness and positivity among visitors and the community. 

It is noteworthy that the Hatta Cultural Nights is being held in cooperation with Dubai Municipality, the Community Development Authority, and Sheikha Maitha Bint Rashid Al Maktoum Center for People of Determination.