### Dubai Culture’s Impact at the 32nd Arabian Travel Market
The significance of culture and heritage is a cornerstone of any vibrant society, and the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has demonstrated its commitment to this notion at the recently concluded 32nd Arabian Travel Market (ATM 2025). Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, this year’s event focused on “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity.” Through active participation, Dubai Culture aims not only to shine a light on Emirati heritage but also to position Dubai as a premier destination for cultural tourism.
### Showcasing Heritage at the Dubai Government Pavilion
Dubai Culture’s presence was prominently housed within the Dubai Government Pavilion, where it showcased some of the emirate’s most cherished heritage sites. A focal point was the Al Shindagha Museum, recognized as the largest heritage museum in the UAE. This cultural landmark offers a unique glimpse into the origins of Dubai and its rich history, providing visitors with an engaging collection of artefacts, oral histories, and historical photographs. The museum’s layout features 22 pavilions that depict the traditional lifestyle of Dubai from the mid-19th century up to the 1970s, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a comprehensive narrative of Emirati life and customs.
### The Etihad Museum: A Chronicle of Unity
In addition to the Al Shindagha Museum, Dubai Culture highlighted the Etihad Museum, a national landmark teeming with the spirit of the UAE’s founding. This museum stands out as a contemporary space that archives the crucial documents and exhibits related to the country’s formation and constitution. Visitors are taken on a historical journey exploring the remarkable achievements of the Founding Fathers. Through its interactive displays and educational programs, the museum strategically charts the events leading up to the UAE’s declaration in 1971, focusing significantly on the transformative years between 1968 and 1974.
### Artistic Expression at Arabian Travel Market
In an effort to further enhance the cultural dialogue at ATM, Dubai Culture curated a compelling art exhibition within the VIP Majlis of the trade market. This exhibition featured a diverse selection of works by prominent Emirati artists who eloquently explored themes central to Emirati heritage. Among the standout pieces was the sculpture “Future” by artist Mattar Bin Lahej. This thought-provoking work delves into the intricate relationship between presence and absence, emphasizing how one can often give meaning to the other.
### Exploring Cultural Narratives Through Art
The exhibition also showcased the works of artist Nawal Alblooshi, including “Rashid Bauhaus,” characterized by its incorporation of vibrant hues and strong lines reflective of the Bauhaus School’s aesthetic, all while intertwining traditional Arab artistic elements. Alongside this, her piece “Rashid Pattern” elegantly draws inspiration from the architectural spirit of Burj Rashid, highlighting its significance both in form and place within the city’s landscape.
Artist Faisal Abdulqader presented his works “Reflections of Legacy,” an homage to the iconic silhouette of the Burj Al Arab, and “In the Old Neighbourhood,” which vividly captures the essence of Dubai’s historic areas. These pieces collectively narrate the city’s evolution, weaving a rich tapestry of memories and cultural narratives.
### Documenting Dubai’s Architectural Heritage
Further enriching the exhibition, artist Alia Al Shamisi showcased “Forgotten Architecture,” a poignant piece commissioned for the special issue of Brownbook magazine on art and architecture back in 2009. This work meticulously documents the unique architectural styles that have marked Dubai, blending past with present in a tribute to the city’s memorable buildings.
Artist Khalid Al Banna contributed to the exhibition with his installation “Gargour,” which draws inspiration from traditional fishing traps. This piece symbolizes the confluence of heritage and modernity, illustrating the ongoing evolution of the UAE’s cultural landscape. The exhibition also featured a collaborative work titled “Burj Rashid Collection,” created by artists Saeed Alketbi and Majedah Alawadhi from Ajzal Studio, providing a visual interpretation of the Burj Rashid’s façade through an artistic lens.
### Conclusion
Dubai Culture’s participation in ATM 2025 not only underscores the importance of heritage and the arts in today’s rapidly changing world, but it also reinforces Dubai’s position as a hub for cultural tourism. Through engaging exhibits and artistic dialogues, the event successfully highlighted the emirate’s rich cultural tapestry, inviting visitors to explore, appreciate, and connect with the essence of Emirati heritage.
