One Nation Under A Groove

Today we did venture out to Al Wathba to check out the Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival, with kids bedecked in their National Colour glory.  The Festival is named in honour of UAE's founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, in recognition of the pivotal role he played in preserving the UAE's heritage in particular, while also giving due respect and appreciation to human heritage in general.  With his wisdom and vision he saw it as a stepping stone towards a bright future with broad prospects.  So the flyer says, and as I can well believe.

The festival presented a comprehensive view of the nation's heritage through different exhibitions and activities while showcasing Arabic and Islamic cultures from the surrounding area.  Here's a quick snap view for you:

The Zaman Awal Play Area was full of authentic toys and games from earlier times.

Camels and horses have always been an integral and important part of Emirati life and there were horses to see and plenty camels to ride.

Falconry remains very popular among Emiratis, who represent a high percentage of the world's falconers.  Bedouins were generally known for having unique falconry skills, especially when it came to hunting and training falcons.

The Saluki (dog) holds a special significance for the country's past generations, and was used for hunting, travelling, escorting and guarding.  For thousands of years, Arab Bedouins have raised Salukis because of their exceptional abilities, intelligence and loyalty.

The Cultural Oasis was created in honour of the city where the late father of the Emirates was born and raised and for which he retained a special affection.  Al Ain has maintained its authentic Emirati spirit and features, including many of the relics and much of the heritage of our forefathers.

Brewing Arabic coffee

A traditional majilis

Fascinated by the
traditional weaving

Then of course it was time for food.  While watching (and taking part in the) traditional dancing.

Arabic 'French' crepes

Bagpipes! (or at least what looks like bagpipes)

'Cos if you're blonde,
this is what happens...

Then time again for some more heritage...

The ancestors of the UAE were skilled craftsmen when it came to building dhows, which played an integral part in the development of the early nation.  We had the chance to see the construction of authentic dhows using traditional methods and materials.

Afghan carpet weaving

As a national leader in the date industry and in the export of dates, Al Foah provided the festival with a huge exhibition as well as hosting the International Palm and Date Festival which included the participation of more than 250 exhibitors from 15 countries.  These are the largest exporters and producers that represent the greatest number of workers in the date industry.  The contest included 'The Best Date Variety', contest to choose the winning type, as well as the self-explanatory 'The Best Date Packaging' and 'The Best Farm' contest.  We weren't allowed to taste any of them.

And there there was the children's corner which we could taste...

Traditional henna

Not so traditional Lightning...

...and the various other contests that were taking place including:

Horse Beauty Contest

Classical Cars Competition

After five hours we were fully heritaged out and it was time to head home.  Hope you've learned a bit more about the UAE on this National day too!