Abu Dhabi Pearls Festival Launches First Edition To Celebrate Marine Heritage And Traditions

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has introduced the Abu Dhabi Pearls Festival, scheduled from 17th to 23rd January. This inaugural event in the emirate aims to honour Abu Dhabi's marine environment and pearl heritage. It seeks to connect past traditions with present knowledge for future generations.

Visitors can explore the Abu Dhabi Pearls Centre in Al Mirfa City during this seven-day festival. Established in 2007, the centre is a leading regional facility for sustainable aquaculture pearls from local oysters. The festival aims to preserve and revive the emirate’s rich pearl diving heritage.

The festival offers various interactive educational, entertainment, and heritage activities. These workshops allow visitors to learn about the emirate’s maritime and pearl-diving traditions. Through these experiences, the festival strengthens national identity and connects different generations by celebrating this authentic heritage.

Ahmed Al Hashemi, Executive Director of Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity Sector at EAD, expressed enthusiasm about the festival's launch. He stated, "We are pleased to launch the Abu Dhabi Pearls Festival, which supports the emirate’s vision to promote ecotourism and raise public awareness about the pivotal role played by the Abu Dhabi Pearls centre in Al Mirfa City – the first of its kind in the region."

The centre focuses on sustainably farming pearls using advanced technologies while showcasing UAE traditions. Its objectives include awareness and education, marketing, studies and research, and ecotourism. The aim is to establish Abu Dhabi Pearls Centre as a regional ecotourism destination.

Discussion sessions at the festival will feature participants from UAE and Gulf countries with expertise in diving, pearls, and environmental topics. These sessions will delve into marine cultural heritage of the Arabian Gulf.

The discussions will cover past diving methods and associated traditions. They will explore how these professions have evolved over time. Additionally, they will highlight different types of pearls found in the Gulf and discuss ways to educate young people about this ancient heritage.

This festival not only celebrates Abu Dhabi's rich history but also promotes sustainable practices for future generations. By connecting past traditions with modern innovations, it ensures that this unique heritage continues to thrive.

With inputs from WAM