Dubai Culture Shines at Arabian Travel Market 2025

Dubai, UAE: The vibrant spirit of Dubai’s cultural heritage took center stage at the 32nd Arabian Travel Market (ATM 2025), celebrated at the Dubai World Trade Centre under the theme ‘Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity.’ With a vision to bolster Emirati heritage on the global platform, the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) made substantial strides in promoting the emirate’s rich cultural tapestry. This commitment not only elevates Dubai’s landmarks but also enhances its status as a prime destination for living, working, and visiting.

Showcasing Heritage at the Dubai Government Pavilion

Under the umbrella of the Dubai Government Pavilion, Dubai Culture unveiled a cornucopia of heritage sites that embody the heart and soul of the UAE. Chief among these was the Al Shindagha Museum, renowned as the largest heritage museum in the country. This cultural gem serves as a gateway to the past, housing a vast collection of artifacts, exhibits, oral histories, and archival photographs that narrate the evolution of Dubai and the UAE.

Visitors traversing its 22 pavilions discover a collection of over 80 historic houses, representing traditional lifestyles from the mid-19th century to the 1970s. Al Shindagha is not just a museum; it’s a repository of narratives, offering an immersive experience that illuminates the authentic cultural practices that shaped the emirate. The meticulous documentation of Dubai’s cultural identity serves as a profound reminder of the region’s heritage.

A Spotlight on the Etihad Museum

Adding another layer of depth to its showcase, Dubai Culture highlighted the Etihad Museum, a beacon for national pride and historical reflection. This iconic landmark houses an impressive archive of documents and exhibits dedicated to the founding of the UAE and its constitution. Visitors are invited to embark on a captivating journey, exploring the story of the nation’s formation and celebrating the remarkable contributions of the Founding Fathers.

The museum stands as a narrative platform, meticulously chronicling events leading up to the UAE’s declaration in 1971, with a focus on the years 1968 to 1974. Through its interactive exhibits and engaging educational programs, the Etihad Museum not only informs but also inspires, fostering a deeper understanding of the UAE’s rich history.

Art as a Reflection of Emirati Heritage

Adding to the cultural vibrancy at ATM 2025, Dubai Culture curated an art exhibition at the VIP Majlis, spotlighting a diverse range of works by prominent Emirati artists, each exploring themes reflective of Emirati heritage.

One of the exhibition’s standout pieces was ‘Future’ by artist Mattar Bin Lahej. This captivating sculpture delves into the relationship between presence and absence, prompting viewers to reflect on how what is missing can sometimes define what is there.

Moreover, artist Nawal Alblooshi presented two striking works: ‘Rashid Bauhaus,’ which melds Bauhaus principles with Arab artistic traditions through vibrant tones and lines, and ‘Rashid Pattern,’ a visual homage to Burj Rashid, celebrating its architectural significance within Dubai.

Diverse Perspectives from Emerging Artists

Emerging talents also graced the exhibition, sharing their unique perspectives on Dubai’s evolution. Artist Faisal Abdulqader showcased his piece ‘Reflections of Legacy,’ inspired by the Burj Al Arab’s iconic silhouette. His painting ‘In the Old Neighbourhood’ captures the nostalgia of Dubai’s historic quarters, painting a picture of the city’s past.

Alia Al Shamisi contributed ‘Forgotten Architecture,’ a poignant documentation of Dubai’s memorable buildings. Originally commissioned for Brownbook magazine, this piece explores the intersection of art and architecture, providing a glimpse into Dubai’s architectural narrative.

Khalid Al Banna’s installation ‘Gargour,’ inspired by traditional fishing traps, beautifully symbolizes the blend of heritage and modernity. This piece serves as a reflection of the evolving cultural landscape of the UAE, while the collaborative ‘Burj Rashid Collection’ by artists Saeed Alketbi and Majedah Alawadhi offers a fresh artistic interpretation of the Burj Rashid façade, emphasizing the importance of architectural heritage.

Cultivating Cultural Tourism

Through its dynamic participation at ATM 2025, Dubai Culture not only showcased the emirate’s rich history and artistic innovation but also reinforced its commitment to cultural tourism. By elevating the significance of heritage and art, Dubai is positioning itself as a leading destination where authenticity meets modernity.

The initiatives undertaken by Dubai Culture are more than mere exhibitions; they are a celebration of identity, a beacon for future tourism, and a call to individuals worldwide to explore the layered narratives embedded in Dubai’s vibrant cultural landscape. As the emirate continues to grow, its roots in heritage will undoubtedly remain a guiding force for its future.