Venice Welcomes the UAE Culture
UAE culture shines in the National pavilion at Venice Biennale.
Because the pavilion is focusing on UAE rich artistic heritage and contemporary creativity on the global stage.
By participating, the UAE highlights its evolving culture landscape and promotes Emirati artists and their uniqueness.
Venice Biennale, one of the most prestigious art exhibitions worldwide, comes this year under the theme “Strangers Everywhere”.
In case you are planning to visit this event, ensure to hurry up as it ends by 24 November.
About “Emirati Creatives Program”
Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) concluded the “Emirati Creatives Program in Venice.”
This program aims at enhancing the presence of local talents in the global art scene.
It also helps them to interact with the prominent artistic experiences in the 60th Venice Biennale.
The program, supported by “Sikka” platform, aligns with the authority’s cultural commitments and responsibilities.
Participants in the program got the opportunity to be in a cultural exploratory journey.
They also discovered the most prominent artistic and creative practices of the other pavilions at Venice Biennale.
Moreover, they benefitted from the global expertise and innovative ideas to develop their expressive techniques and enhance their contributions to support Dubai’s cultural and creative industries.
Emirati Artists in Venice
- Anoud Al Khouri
- Dohaa Al Halami
- Elham Karimi
- Fatima Abdulrahman
- Fatima Al Muhairi
- Hind Al Mureed
- Maryam Al Hamiri
- Muzna Swaidan
- Nawal Ahmed
- Sara Al Khayal
“Abdullah Al Saadi: Sites of Memory, Sites of Amnesia”
During their tour, the artists visited the UAE Pavilion in Arsenale – Sale d’Armi – the international biennale, Venice.
They explored the exhibition “Abdullah Al Saadi: Sites of Memory, Sites of Amnesia”.
Mentioning that this exhibition marks a milestone in Al Saadi’s career.
Because it encompasses 40 years of travel and interaction with the surrounding environment that influenced his artistic works.
The artists also made a broad tour in Venice.
They visited key cultural and heritage sites, like:
- The historic Doge’s Palace
- Rubelli Foundation,
- Cini Foundation
- The Vatican Rooms
UAE Pavilion at Venice Biennale Highlights UAE Culture Evolution
In support of international Emirati cultural participation, Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture, visited the UAE Pavilion at Venice Biennale.
Hala Badri viewed its exhibitions that highlight the evolution of the cultural scene.
From the experimental artists of the 20th century to the contemporary and diverse cultural landscape.
Badri also toured the international exhibition.
She visited the main Giardini Pavilion, Saudi National Pavilion, Uzbekistan National Pavilion, and the Egyptian National Pavilion.
During her visit to the international exhibition, Badri met with several directors and officials from Italian cultural institutions.
She discussed the prospects to collaborate and strengthen cultural ties with them.
She also met with members of the “Emirati Creatives Program in Venice.”
What are the Key Aspects of UAE Culture ?
If you are planning to visit the UAE Pavilions at Venice Biennale, it will be the best chance to learn about UAE culture.
The UAE culture aspects the you will discover at the UAE Pavilion include the below:
- Heritage and Traditions
- Islam and Religious Practices
- Arabic Language and Poetry
- Hospitality
- Architecture and Urban Development
- Traditional Emirati cuisine
- Cultural Celebrations and Festivals
- Pearling and Maritime Traditions
- Falconry, Equestrianism, and Camel Racing
- Modern Arts and Culture
These elements blend to create a unique and multifaceted culture in the UAE.
They are also balancing the deep respect for tradition with a forward-looking approach to modernity and innovation.
10 Attractive Cultural Landmarks in The UAE
The UAE has a variety of cultural landmarks and institutions.
They reflect its rich heritage and modern vision.
Here are some key cultural places in the UAE:
1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Abu Dhabi)
One of the largest mosques in the world, this iconic structure is a symbol of Islamic architecture and cultural pride.
It combines traditional Islamic design with modern influences and is open to visitors from around the world.
2. Louvre Abu Dhabi
A groundbreaking cultural institution, the Louvre Abu Dhabi showcases art, history, and culture from around the world.
It emphasizes cross-cultural connections and global heritage, with pieces ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary works.
3. Qasr Al Hosn (Abu Dhabi)
Qasr Al Hosn is the oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi and a symbol of the city’s history.
It was a watchtower and later it became a fort besides being the royal family residence.
Now, it is a museum that tells the story of Abu Dhabi’s transformation from a small fishing village to a modern metropolis.
4. Dubai Opera (Dubai)
Dubai Opera is a major performing arts venue that hosts a wide range of performances, including opera, ballet, theater, and concerts.
Its architecture is inspired by traditional dhow boats, linking modern performance arts with the region’s maritime heritage.
5. Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood (Dubai)
Al Fahidi is one of the oldest parts of Dubai.
It offers a glimpse into traditional Emirati life.
Its narrow lanes, wind-tower houses, and museums (like Coffee Museum and Dubai Museum) reflect the historical roots of the city.
6. Sharjah Arts Museum (Sharjah)
A key cultural institution in Sharjah, it focuses on Middle Eastern art.
It also promotes the artistic heritage of the UAE.
Mentioning that it hosts contemporary and classical art collection, along with temporary exhibitions.
7. Al Ain Oasis (Al Ain)
Al Ain Oasis is a UNESCO World Heritage site, it provides a glimpse into the UAE’s ancient farming and irrigation systems.
It is also an important part of the country’s agricultural heritage that has been preserved as a cultural landmark.
Fitch Ratings expects the Middle East economy to grow by more than 3% in 2025, with the UAE expected to lead the region. pic.twitter.com/p2KL8Pjua5
— UAE Voice (@uae_voiceeng) October 28, 2024
8. Al Jahili Fort (Al Ain)
Al Jahili Fort is one of the most significant historical buildings in the UAE.
It was built in the 19th century to protect the city and its precious palm groves.
Today, it houses exhibitions and provides insight into the UAE history and culture.
9. Jameel Arts Centre (Dubai)
Jameel Arts Centre is a contemporary arts institution that hosts exhibitions, educational programs, and artist residencies.
It focuses on promoting regional artists while also bringing international artists into dialogue with the Middle East.
10. Heritage Village (Abu Dhabi)
Heritage Village is a reconstruction of a traditional Emirati village, giving visitors a hands-on experience of the UAE’s past.
The village showcases the desert way of life, besides traditional crafts, fishing, pearl diving, and agriculture.
These cultural places provide a deep connection to the UAE culture, art, and traditions.
They also highlight its modern embrace of global culture and innovation.
