Henna Officially Inscribed On UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage List By DCT Abu Dhabi

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced that Henna has been officially added to UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. This recognition highlights Henna as one of the oldest and most cherished cultural elements in the United Arab Emirates. Initially used for medicinal purposes, Henna is now integral to rituals and ceremonies, adorning women and girls with intricate designs.

Henna's inclusion on the UNESCO list was achieved during the 19th Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage meeting in Asunción, Paraguay. The UAE delegation, led by Ambassador Ali Al Haj Al Ali, played a pivotal role in this achievement. This decision aligns with the criteria set out in the 2003 Convention for safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.

Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture, expressed pride in this accomplishment. He stated, "We take immense pride in the efforts that have led to the inclusion of these files, which form a fundamental pillar of our Emirati and Arab heritage and identity, in this distinguished list. This achievement reflects the richness and depth of our Arab civilization and emphasises the strong bonds that unite us as Arab nations, rooted in a shared legacy of profound cultural heritage."

He further highlighted the UAE's dedication to preserving both tangible and intangible heritage. The nation collaborates with other Arab countries to ensure UNESCO recognition through strategic initiatives. This effort aims to maintain cultural heritage as a vital link connecting future generations to their authentic history.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, remarked on Henna's deep roots in Emirati culture. He said, "Henna is a deeply rooted element of our heritage, and its inclusion on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity is a testament to our commitment to preserving this tradition for future generations." Henna has evolved from its ancient medicinal origins into a symbol of joy and creativity.

This achievement aligns with broader goals to promote Emirati identity globally. With support from Abu Dhabi's leadership, safeguarding measures will continue to preserve intangible cultural heritage. The recognition aims to highlight Henna's cultural significance and enduring pride within communities.

Collaborative Efforts Across Arab Nations

DCT Abu Dhabi led the nomination file titled "Henna: rituals, aesthetic and social practices," collaborating with the Ministry of Culture and Youth under ALECSO's patronage. Sixteen other countries joined this joint Arab file: Jordan, Bahrain, Tunisia, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Iraq, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Kuwait, Morocco, Egypt, Mauritania, and Yemen.

This collaborative effort underscores heritage's role in sustainable development and shared human experiences. It also showcases how diverse Arab communities have enriched Henna aesthetics for traditional adornment purposes.

The inscription marks a significant milestone as it becomes the 16th element recognised on behalf of the UAE since falconry was included in 2010.

With inputs from WAM