The month of May 2024, saw the city of Al Ain host an incredible musical extravaganza, the Young Hands and Voices Concert (6th Edition), where junior musicians from around the UAE came together to perform their hearts out to an eager crowd. This segment of the Al Ain Music Festival is a much-anticipated event amongst the community of Al Ain. 

Over the years, this concert’s popularity quickly expanded beyond the local community, attracting attendees and participants from across the UAE, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Ras Al Khaimah. Yaremi explained that the selection process for the concert is based on auditions where the performer submits a video for consideration. “This year we had a recorded number of over 100 audition submissions and 50 performances were selected for the final event from Uptown International School, Bloom World Academy, Diyafah International School, Safa Community School, Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, Gems Our own English High School, Repton School Abu Dhabi, Dubai College, Brighton College Al Ain, and the hosting school, Al Ain British Academy” she recalls. 

The program showcased a diverse range of musical genres, moving beyond classical music to include musical theatre, pop, and choral pieces. A hard-working team of teachers were part of the event: Yaima Cruz Castillo, Dunia Gonzalez Romeo, Cleydis Tena Figeroa,  Rosa Maria Aguila Mendoza, Maridalia Fernandez, Aylin Aguila, Idorka Bracho, Ilya Netkach, Chiara De Paula and Sarah Martinez Rebollo, work tirelessly to bring this concert to fruition, supporting their pupils every step of the way. 

Yaima Castillo, one of the teachers who have participated since the first edition explained that she looks forward to this concert every year. “I prepare my students for the auditions and root for them to take part because these opportunities are unique and unforgettable”. This is the consensus among the amazing music teachers who give up their weekend to be part of this event. Dunia Gonzalez another music teacher who has committed to participate every year said “I took part for the first time when I was teaching here in Al Ain, and then I moved to Uptown International School in Dubai.  I made sure that my students in Dubai took part in this concert as well, as I see the value of these events and how exciting these opportunities are for young performers.”

The Young Hands and Voices Concert was born in 2016 out of the desire of Yaremi Ledesma Alvarez, a music teacher from Cuba, to create a dedicated space for young performers in Al Ain. After graduating from Cuba’s Music and Art School system, she was used to performing in theatres, auditoriums, music festivals and events outside the school during her forming years. Yaremi explained that “This is where the true performing skills are forged, the confidence is nurtured and where the music student discovers their performance identity in front of the audience.” After relocating to the UAE in 2005 and working within the school music system, she noticed that musical activities were predominantly confined to schools. Recitals and end-of-year concerts took place, but there was a lack of opportunities for children to perform publicly, even during the Al Ain Music Festival (AAMF). Recognising this gap, she initiated the first Young Hands and Voices Concert in 2016 at the Al Qattara Art Centre. 

The Young Hands and Voices Concert quickly became a staple of the AAMF, continuing annually and growing in popularity until the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the tradition for 2 years.  The concert venues have varied over the years: in 2017, it was held at the Al Ain British Academy Auditorium; in 2018, at La Dolce Vita; in 2019, at Danat Resort; in 2023, at Zayed Central Library; and in 2024, it returned to the Al Ain British Academy. The Young Hands and Voices Concert has consistently been the most attended event of the AAMF, celebrating and nurturing young musical talent in the community. Yaremi also acknowledged the important contributions by La Dolce Vita as the AAMF organiser to make these events possible. Music centers like LDV play a vital role in supporting the growth of young talent.

The event was another successful night of music led by children and their dedicated music teachers, highlighting the broad talents of young performers from all over the nation. Looking back to the concert and talking about the future ones, Yaremi says: “My wish for the young performer’s community is that they follow their passion in music and arts and take these opportunities to grow their confidence and refine their craft. Every minute spent learning an instrument or nurturing a singing voice is all worth it in the end” 

Quotes from parent/ students

“My daughter who is 4 years old had a chance to perform, we did not mind the drive to Al Ain to take part because this is the type of opportunity that is inspirational for a young musician to be part of” expressed Rosa Maria, mother of Victoria, the youngest performer at the concert at only 4 years old. 

Destiny Thor, a recurrent performer in this event since she was only 7 years old, sang a beautiful rendition of “Somewhere over the Rainbow”. When asked about her experience at the concert over the past year, she said “Although it is a challenge to step in front of a crowded auditorium to sing, the experience is very rewarding. It is exciting to perform in front of an audience and meet other performers from different schools”

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In a momentous occasion for the Hindu community in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi welcomed a staggering 65,000 pilgrims and visitors on the first Sunday since its public opening. 

The faithful came in busloads and carloads with over 40,000 visiting in the morning and a further 25,000 during the evening. Despite the sizeable crowds, the visitors, grouped in batches of 2,000, queued patiently and progressed orderly into the Mandir campus. People felt blessed upon receiving darshan of the murtis as a great sense of peace and devotion marked the day.

Sumant Rai from Abu Dhabi exclaimed, “Never have I seen such amazing order in the midst of thousands of people. I was worried I would have to wait for hours and not be able to do darshan peacefully, but we had amazing darshan and were extremely satisfied. Hats off to all the BAPS volunteers and Mandir staff.”

Pravina Shah from London gave her experience of her first visit to the BAPS Hindu Mandir, stating, “I have a disability and the care given by the staff despite thousands of visitors was remarkable. I could see the crowds of people being ushered peacefully from one zone to the next.”

Balchandra from Kerala shared, “I thought I would be lost in the sea of people, but I was so surprised with how well the visit was managed. I was able to peacefully enjoy darshan. Can’t wait until my next visit.”

Visitors were able to enjoy darshan of the beautiful Mandir and offer their prayers collectively. The enthusiasm to take part in the religious rituals of the abhishek and the arti left many people feeling emotional as they experienced peace and tranquillity. Many were also in awe of the mandir’s intricate architecture. The vibrant colours of clothing worn by visitors created a sea of hues, adding to the festive atmosphere. Eagerly anticipating their visit, people travelled from far and wide, having expectations surpassed by the joy and serenity they experienced.

Neha and Pankaj, who have lived in Dubai for 40 years, exclaimed, “We have been waiting for this moment, and the Mandir has exceeded all our expectations! It’s a true marvel. We feel blessed because now we have a place to come and offer our prayers and feel the spirituality.”

Piyush from Portland, USA, said, “The opening of this Mandir is a testament to the UAE’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. It’s a beautiful representation of unity among different communities.”

Luis from Mexico remarked, “The architecture and intricate details in the stones are amazing. I really appreciate getting to see the cultural heritage of India. People, come join!”

Brahmaviharidas Swami, reflecting on the historic significance of the opening Sunday for the public, stated, “We are deeply grateful to the leaders of the UAE and the local authorities for the new bus services and their all-round support in making this day a reality. We would also like to thank the pilgrims who were so patient and so understanding during their visit. This Mandir will serve as a beacon of spirituality and a hub of harmony, bringing together people of all backgrounds and beliefs.”

The UAE government’s dedication to accessibility and inclusivity was further highlighted by the introduction of a new bus route (203) from Abu Dhabi to the Mandir, facilitating weekend visits and emphasising the country’s commitment to fostering cultural diversity and inclusivity.

The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi not only marks a significant milestone in promoting spiritual and cultural unity, but also stands as a testament to the UAE’s forward-thinking approach to diversity and inclusion. As the doors of the Mandir remain open, it continues to welcome all who seek peace, spirituality, and a sense of community.

To know more visit:  https://www.baps.org/Publications/Audios/Audio-Book/Hinduism-FAQs-1490.aspx

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The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Miral, Abu Dhabi’s leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences, have announced 65% completion of the overall development of the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi. Located within Saadiyat Cultural District, the museum is set to be the largest of its kind in the region, once construction is completed by the end of 2025.

Upon completion, the museum will take visitors on a 13.8-billion-year journey through time and space – from the earliest origins of our universe, exploring the abundance of life on Earth today, and looking into the future. Structural works of the 35,000 sqm museum is largely complete with a current focus on the installation of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP), building fit-out, and exhibition works.​ The museum was topped out by H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi and Miral, H.E. Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi and Mohamed Abdallah Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, which was followed by a visit of the development to check construction progress.

H.E. Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: “The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi will play a key role in advancing science and inspiring environmental stewardship in our children while furthering Abu Dhabi as a global centre for research and collaboration. By cultivating a generation passionate about the natural sciences, we seek to enrich lives through education and scientific discovery, in turn encouraging people to actively care for the planet’s future.  Set to inspire visitors of all ages by unlocking billions of years of knowledge about our planet, this progress update is an indication of concrete steps towards curating a thought-provoking perspective of the future and igniting a passion for the natural world.”

Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, said: “The progress we are witnessing in the development of the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi marks an important milestone in our journey to contribute to the evolution of the Emirate’s cultural landscape. Working in close partnership with DCT Abu Dhabi, we have a shared vision for the development of this iconic landmark.  Once complete, the Museum will play an integral role in enhancing access and engagement with the natural sciences while supporting the Emirate’s tourism ecosystem and economic diversification.”

The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi will present the history of our universe and the story of life on Earth, as well as provide a glimpse into a more sustainable future. In addition to global natural history, this narrative will be framed through an Arabian lens for the first time, with the fauna, flora, and geological history of the region, a prominent part of the visitors’ journey.

Exceptional specimens and significant artefacts unlock some of the most important stories of our natural world. These specimens and stories will be enhanced by immersive displays, built on a foundation of research and scientific analysis. 

The museum is carefully curated by a dedicated team of specialists, world-leading scholars and natural science experts. 

The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi will also serve as a research and educational institution, supporting scientific knowledge and creating a think tank for future innovation and emerging technologies. A dedicated research facility will undertake innovative scientific studies in zoology, palaeontology, marine biology, molecular research and earth sciences.

The museum will join the diverse cultural institutions and museums that comprise Saadiyat Cultural District, which features Louvre Abu Dhabi; Manarat Al Saadiyat cultural centre; and Berklee Abu Dhabi. The district will soon welcome Zayed National Museum, the national museum of the United Arab Emirates, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, focusing on Modern and Contemporary art; and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, where art and architecture blend with cutting-edge technology and science.

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The Abrahamic Family House welcomed its first worshippers to the mosque, the church and the synagogue over the weekend.

The inaugural Friday prayer was held at His Eminence Ahmed El-Tayeb Mosque on 17 February, marking the first time the community was welcomed inside one of the three houses of worship to practice faith. 

On Sunday, 19 February, the Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue held its first service, which began with the hanging of the Mezuzah followed by Mincha, the afternoon prayer. 

The same day, a service was held at His Holiness Francis Church, presided over by His Eminence Cardinal Michael Fitzgerald, featuring prayers and hymns sung by a choir. The service concluded with a message from Bishop Paolo Martinelli, the Apostolic Vicar for Southern Arabia. 

The Abrahamic Family House was inaugurated last week by H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, and Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence on 16 February 2023. 

Located on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, the Abrahamic Family House is now welcoming worshippers, with access to the forum and guided tours available to visitors from 1 March 2023. Regular service and prayer timings for the respective places of worship can be found on the Abrahamic Family House website. 

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The Mohammed Bin Rashid Library welcomes visitors into a unique cultural experience, taking them on a journey through different civilisations and offering them the opportunity to view a unique collection of rare and ancient books, atlases, and manuscripts, some of them dating back to the 13th century, as part of the Treasures of the Library Exhibition.

Including first prints of various books on journeys to the Arabian Peninsula and descriptions of the Middle East, the Exhibition also holds a highly valuable collection of European and Ottoman maps of the Arabian Peninsula between 15th-19th centuries, including a coloured and gilded Ptolemy map printed in 1482. Additionally, the Exhibition boasts a unique selection of atlases, including a rare atlas about stars, a sea atlas, and one about horses and falcons.

Atlas Maior & Shakespeare’s works

A key rare document in the Exhibition is Frederik de Wit’s the composite Atlas Maior, printed in Amsterdam, the Netherlands between 1680-1686. Bringing together various maps from the Dutch Golden Age, the Atlas with its vibrant colours depicts that era of prosperous arts, sciences, and exploration across the worlds of land and sea. This version of the Atlas was also the last to be published by Joan Blaeu.

The first edition of Atlas Maior, printed in 1662, is widely celebrated as the most renowned achievement of Johannes Blaeu, famous cartographer in the 17th century. Separately, the 11th volume alone of the Atlas includes 593 maps and gilded, individually-engraved plates.

Due to its high quality print and outstanding type of scripting and bookbinding at the time, Atlas Maior is widely considered as one of the greatest and most amazing atlases ever made. Even the Dutch Republic used to present the Atlas as an official gift to kings and other diplomatic engagements in the 17th century.

Additionally, the Treasures of the Library exhibits the complete works of William Shakespeare, the most celebrated English playwright and one of the greatest writers worldwide, whose plays still resonate on theatres all over the world, such as Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, and Othello. Featured in the exhibition, the first edition of Shakespeare’s edited works, including 36 of his plays, was originally printed in London, 1632.

Description de l’Egypte (Description of Egypt)

The Treasures of the Library Exhibition showcases the first original edition of Description de l’Egypte (Description of Egypt) series, published by the Commission of Arts and Sciences in Egypt. Printed between 1809-1828, the encyclopaedic register of Egyptian history and archaeology was created and collected during the invasion of Egypt by Napoleon Bonaparte.

The encyclopaedic volumes included numerous depictions of ancient and modern Egypt, as well as reports on topics such as language, agriculture, music, and natural history. Afterwards, a team of over 2,000 artists and inscribers were told to complete the masterpiece, enriching and diversifying its content. Admirably, the series’ first edition was housed in a custom-made mahogany cabinet, inspired by the style of Charles Morel, the renowned closet-maker from Paris.

As an 18th century encyclopaedic record of Egyptian archaeology, natural history, and politics, the Description of Egypt was researched and produced during Napoleon Bonaparte’s military invasion of Egypt between 1798-1801.

At the time, the encyclopaedia was created by a team comprising hundreds of scholars, artists, sculptors, and other related specialists accompanying the military expedition. In France, Description of Egypt was made in 34 volumes, the first came out in 1809, with continued production until releasing the last volume in 1829. Thus, this masterpiece remains a highly-significant milestone across the history of French publication, as well as a valuable record of 18th-century Egypt.

Ottoman Quran & the Lotus Sutra

A large-size, Ottoman-era version of the Holy Quran adorns the Exhibition, written by Mr. Ali Al Nahif using Naskh font, and printed in 1257 hijri, 1841-1842 AD. Both sides of the cover are embellished with floral designs circling Surah Al-Fatiha and the first part of Surah Al-Baqarah. Around the designs are multi-coloured leaves with gilded ridges. Styled in Ejaza font, names of Surahs (chapters) are written in white ink on a golden background, while the rest of the Quran uses black ink, and it is still maintained in its original, high-quality gilded leather cover.

Additionally, the space exhibits the unique manuscript of Chapter 23 from the Lotus Sutra, titled “The Former Deeds of Medicine King Bodhisattva”, printed in Kyoto, 1636, which was written with golden ink on indigo-coloured paper, embellished with golden and silver floral designs.

This precious item was originally a part of a 28-scroll collection commissioned by Emperor Go-Mizunoo, ruling Japan between 1611-1629, or his daughter Meishō (1629-1643). Originally, the collection was made to celebrate the 21st anniversary of the death of shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu (1616).

Adorned with the crest of the Tokugawa family, which ruled Japan and held the Shogun title between 1603-1867, the Lotus Sutra scroll was first offered to the Toshogu Shrine in Nikkō city in honour Shogun Ieyasu.

A Pencil Case Decorated with Emerald and Rubies

Central to the museum is a 30.6 cm x 11.7 cm golden pencil case decorated with emerald and rubies, made in the Deccan sultanates, Central India, in the late 10th century hijri/ 16th century AD, and designed to be mounted on the waist mantle. Symbolising different ranks, these pencil cases used to be presented to leading court officials and ministers.

The case is made with gold and decorated with diamonds, rubies, and emeralds. However, the inkwell itself is a masterpiece, with its polygon dome designed in the form of a lotus and inspired from the Deccan sultanates’ architecture. The bottom side, as well, is decorated with a Whisper Bird, which is a holy and mythical water bird symbolising Wisdom and Higher Spirit, then the edge of the case is attached to two polygon pen carriers, whose tips can be opened.

A Library of Libraries

In addition to its various facilities, theatres, and sectors, Mohammed Bin Rashid Library comprises 9 different libraries. It also includes the Treasures of the Library Exhibition, a wonder of culture and human history and a rich museum showcasing a unique collection of rare and ancient books, Atlases, and manuscripts, dating back even to the 13th century.

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Library aims to spark a passion for knowledge throughout UAE society, especially youth, in addition to the conservation and promotion of Arabic literature, culture, and heritage by supporting and promoting reading, research, creativity, and entrepreneurship. The Library offers free access to a unique collection of books and other knowledge resources, as well as providing high-quality information services and launching leading cultural events.

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Spectators will enjoy a masterful display of stunning visuals, music and performances, as some of the world’s most creative minds, internationally renowned artists and emerging talents come together in a dazzling, ground-breaking performance that will be shared with audiences around the world*.

Among those slated to perform are world-famous tenor Andrea Bocelli; Grammy nominated, Golden Globe-winning actress, singer and songwriter Andra Day; Platinum selling British singer-songwriter Ellie Goulding; international mega-star pianist Lang Lang; and four-time Grammy winner Angelique Kidjo. 

Highlighting the creative diversity and talent of the region, the glittering line-up also includes the ‘Artist of Arabs’ Mohamed Abdo, much-loved Emirati singing sensation ‘Fananat Al Arab’ Ahlam Alshamsi; Emirati Artist and Expo 2020 Dubai Ambassador Hussain Al Jassmi, a trendsetter on the Khaleeji music scene in the Middle East and Internationally; rising UAE singer-songwriter Almas; and Grammy-nominated Lebanese-American singer Mayssa Karaa.

Drawing inspiration directly from Expo’s theme of ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’, the Opening Ceremony will take spectators on an incredible journey across its subthemes of Opportunity, Mobility and Sustainability, showcasing the deep-rooted values of the UAE and the vision and purpose of the Expo, while welcoming the mega-event’s 192 participating countries in spectacular fashion.  

Tareq Ghosheh, Chief Event and Entertainment Officer, Expo 2020 Dubai said: “As the global spotlight shines on the UAE, this incredible, unforgettable evening will celebrate the collaborative, creative and optimistic spirit of Expo 2020, demonstrating our commitment to hosting a mega-event that will delight the world. 

“Combining some of the most sought-after names in the world of music, live events and entertainment with the awe-inspiring, world-first technologies of the iconic Al Wasl Plaza, this is the ‘big bang’ that sets the scene for 182 days of visually striking and emotionally inspiring experiences, as we invite visitors from across the planet to join the making of a new world.”

Behind the scenes, preparations have brought together creative minds from different geographies, industries and backgrounds, including a talented in-house team of Emirati and international creatives, with event organisers not only commissioning, but also actively co-curating and co-producing the collaborative spectacle. The wider team is led by Scott Givens, executive producer and CEO of FiveCurrents, whose credits include 62 iconic ceremonies, including the most Olympic Ceremonies ever, and includes Franco Dragone, acclaimed artistic director of ground-breaking productions such as La Perle and Cirque du Soleil, and Jared Sweet, award-winning creative director behind ceremonies spanning six countries.

Available to watch on Expo TV, Virtual Expo and broadcast to a global audience of millions across multiple channels, the Opening Ceremony will showcase the stunning Al Wasl Plaza, including the largest immersive sound installation in the world and the world’s largest blended video projection installation. The first event of its kind to take place ‘in the round’, the audience will be at the centre of the show as it unfolds, with the revolving stage, stunning surrounds and immersive technologies coming to life around them.

The Opening Ceremony will also serve as an important opportunity to demonstrate Expo’s commitment to the health, safety and well-being of its staff, participants and visitors as it brings the global community together for one of the first times since the onset of the pandemic. 

Running from 1 October 2021 to 31 March 2022, Expo 2020 will feature the best of art, music, architecture, technology and culture from around the world. From an adrenalin-boosting sporting programme, to the jaw-dropping outdoor night-time light festival Kaleidoscope, to gathering the world’s brightest minds for the Programme for People and Planet, there is something for visitors of all ages and interests – and one visit will not be enough.

The largest event to be held in the MEASA region, Expo 2020 will enable millions of people to experience the world in one place, explore new frontiers and embrace opportunities for tomorrow. 

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Right across from the Al Ain Rotana hotel, you can find the newly restored home of the late Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan. This historic house was built in 1958 was the home of the father-in-law of the lat HH Shaikh Zayed Al Nahyan, founding father of the United Arab Emirate. During his time, the late Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan kept traditions alive by opening his home to the community. This communal approach made his house a landmark in Al Ain. Now, after being carefully restored by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa is open to the public and ready to continue its legacy as a community space for all.

Today, visitors to Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa can find an exhibition on the Life and Legacy of the late Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan. This permanent exhibition is open seven days a week and free for all visitors. The exhibition gives an overview of the historic home,  architectural details of the house, and other cultural sites of Al Ain.  As you walk through this interactive, bilingual audio and visual exhibition, you can enjoy a fascinating look into the daily life of the late Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan and learn about his interests like the management of palm trees and falconry. Visitors can also listen to the oral histories of elderly Al Ain residents about their experiences of living and working in Al Ain in the past.

The Community Center

After the renovations, several of the rooms in the House are now set up to function as community space.  Some of the rooms have been transformed into small meeting rooms, classrooms, a large studio, and a multi-purpose space. These spaces are ideal for hosting your next meeting, team-building session, bespoke art session with friends, movie night, or social gathering. Please contact the Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa staff for details on equipment & facilities available in each community room, rental costs, room bookings, and any other questions you may have.

Phone: 03 711 8335

contactus@baitmohammedbinkhalifa.ae

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 8 PM (Saturday to Thursday) and 2 PM – 10 PM (Friday)

Location: Across from Al Ain Rotana, Zayed Bin Sultan St – Al Mu›tarid – Abu Dhabi

Website: https://baitmohammedbinkhalifa.ae/

RFLCT Creative Arts Center

A visit to Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa is not complete until you stop by to explore the rest of the site. To one side of the courtyard, you will notice a newly added building structure with a café and an Art Center. 

When you walk into RFLCT Creative Art Center you are sure to find original artwork on display by prominent and up-and-coming local artists. At RFLCT they offer an impressive selection of creative art workshops for kids and adults. Their experienced instructors can deliver sessions in Arabic and English and they are keen to make your art experience as creative and relaxing as possible. All workshops take place at the RFLCT studio or in one of the community rooms at the House. 

Here are some of the workshops available in Al Ain*:

• Mixed Media Art
• Resin Art
• Acrylic Pouring 
• Collage Art
• Oil Painting
• Acrylic Painting
• Soft Pastel Color Painting
• Coffee and Saffron Painting
• Embroidery Workshop
• Arabic Calligraphy
• String Art
• Henna Art 
• Drawing for kids
• Fabric Painting
• Decoupage Art
• Art Medication
• iPhone Photography
• Basics of Digital Art
• Ceramic Flower Sculpture
• Terrarium Planting
• Bath Bomb Workshop
• Flower Arrangement
• Crochet for Beginners
• Guitar & Oud Lessons

* RFLCT Abu Dhabi Branch catalogue may vary

To find out about workshop dates, timing and prices or any new workshop request you may have, please contact RFLCT Creative Arts Center Al Ain:

WhatsApp: +97150 181 5454  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rflct.arts/?hl=en

Notes Café

Notes cafe is well situated beside the House, facing the courtyard with a nice view of Mohammed bin Khalifa’s house. There is also outside seating, a pleasant option for the winter months. They serve all-day breakfast and more, including cold drinks, a great selection of coffee, sandwiches, salads, along with main entrées and delicious desserts. 

Daily 8 am – 11pm (03 753 1517).

If you are planning a visit, please note, as with any public place in Abu Dhabi, Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa heritage complex requires Green status on your Al Hosn App to enter the site.

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Walking through the Palace of the Nation, visitors can view a unique collection of diplomatic gifts that echo the diversity and cultures of many of the world’s nations. Each gift is carefully chosen and considers the culture, religion and personal taste of the person receiving it, and reveals valuable information about the cultures and economies they represent. 

Many of the gifts on display at Qasr Al Watan are inspired by the purpose of a state or diplomatic visit. Here is a quick sneak peek into some of the distinctive gifts visitors can enjoy at the Palace:

Falcons

A symbol of strength and national heritage, the falcon is one of the most important animals associated with the identity of the UAE. In the past, it was an important form of hunting, while today it is one of the most honored sports in the country and is associated with the Arab values of courage, honor and nobility. For instance, falcon masks are used when hunting to cover the eyes of the falcon to calm it down during travel. 

The masks seen here have been gifted by Germany, a renowned manufacturer for falconry equipment. 

Weapons

Traditional weapons play an important role in the communication of the history and heritage of the United Arab Emirates. Alongside their practical use for hunting and protection, local swords, daggers and rifles have social and cultural significance and can communicate identity and status. These weapons are often gifted as a sign of respect. 

Visitors can find a ceremonial dagger that was gifted by the Sultanate of Oman and a golden sword gifted by Saudi Arabia.

Animals

Many countries have national animals which communicate the heritage, identity and values of a nation. While the United Arab Emirates has many indigenous animals that are protected and admired, it is the falcon and Arabian oryx that are often used as official symbols. 

The objects on display at Qasr Al Watan represent the national animals of many other countries. Given as gifts by visiting dignitaries, their presence here celebrates the friendship and connection between the UAE and the world. 

Craftsmanship

The United Arab Emirates continuously works to protect its heritage by making sure that the skills and knowledge connected with various types of artisanry are passed down to future generations. Visitors will notice that decorative arts are a common choice of diplomatic gifts and showcase the traditional artisans of a country.

For example, the Ukrainian Amber on display at Qasr Al Watan has a long history of being a source of happiness, vitality, and protection against evil. Famously known as the gemstone of eternal youth. 

While the Gold Wreath, gifted by Greece, has seen similar gifts to it be offered to the Greek God Apollo. With delicate carving that reflects the craftmanship during the Hellenistic period, Gold Wreaths with ivy leaves and berries constitute excellent examples of the workmanship of goldsmiths in Hellenistic times.  

Emblems

Symbols rich in cultural meaning are often used in diplomacy. Every country has emblematic places, icons, or features that represent their national pride. Due to their cultural importance or their symbolic meaning, they epitomize the identity of a nation. On display is a Model of Petra, gifted by Jordan, and an etching emblem from the Vatican City State to name a few. 

Sacred Symbols: Gifts of Friendship, Mutual Respect and Tolerance

Other items gifted represent the culture of the country or a specific religion. The gifts are not intended to be elaborate but represent a gesture of friendship, mutual respect and tolerance.

Over the centuries the Holy Qur’an has been highly valued as a diplomatic gift due to its importance as the religious text of Islam. The incorporation of different types of binding, material and ornamentation add an artistic dimension to it. 

Due to the importance of Islam in the region, religious manuscripts have been a symbol of diplomacy. Various artistic elements are added with the inclusion of binding, material, and ornamentation. 

In the religion or Holy Quran display case, a black cover can be seen embroidered in gold. The golden embroidery is a verse from the Holy Quran and the black cover itself is part of the dressing of the Kaaba which is the holiest place for Muslims; located in Mecca in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The dressing changes on a yearly basis and is called the Kiswa. What can be seen on display is a gift from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and is a small part of the larger dressing.

Carpets from Turkmenistan, ornamental vases from the Phoenician era, and gold wreath that trace back to ancient Macedonia are just of the few priceless possessions you can find at Qasr Al Watan. Visit Qasr Al Watan to see a distinctive assortment of diplomatic gifts received from heads of state and foreign dignitaries across the years. 

Qasr Al Watan is open Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 10:00AM to 6:00PM and 12:00PM to 7:30PM from Thursday to Saturday; for more information visit: www.QasrAlWatan.ae

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The Qasr Al Watan library has an impressive collection of 50,000 texts, and 16 million digital documents collected over 35 years, covering subjects such as history, geography and the social, economic and political development of the UAE. 

The Qasr Al Watan Library is a unique addition to the library network in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. With the aim of preserving the Arab world’s history and culture, it houses rare manuscripts, and an immense selection of ancient books and documents that illuminate the Arab region’s most remarkable influences on astronomy, science, art, literature and more. 

With its unique architectural style, and provision of digital and internet access and an integrated reading experience with resources in a variety of languages, the library is ideal for research, reading, and writing, and fosters a space where imagination and creativity come to life.

The library is part of the existing rich Abu Dhabi public library network and is open to all UAE nationals, residents and visitors, and can be visited in person or via a membership card that provides access to all services. To obtain a membership card, please visit: https://library.dctabudhabi.ae/   

The Library is open Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 AM to 8 PM, for more information: https://abudhabiculture.ae/en/experience/libraries/qasr-al-watan-library 

The post The Qasr Al Watan Library: a world of culture and knowledge appeared first on The Source Family Magazine.