Sheikha Latifa Unveils ‘Foundations of Unity’ Exhibition at Etihad Museum

H H Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) and Member of the Dubai Council, has officially opened the 'Introducing Zayed National Museum: The Foundations of Unity' exhibition. This significant event is taking place at the Etihad Museum from 18 February to 5 December 2024. The exhibition is a collaborative effort between the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, and Dubai Culture. It honors the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan for his pivotal role in unifying the emirates and elevating their global stature.

The exhibition delves into the extensive collections of Zayed National Museum and the UAE’s cultural heritage, commemorating Sheikh Zayed's enduring legacy and values. H H Sheikha Latifa emphasized the national importance of the exhibition, highlighting its role as an educational resource that enriches future generations with cultural knowledge. It focuses on the significant historical moment on 18 February 1968, marking the foundation of the United Arab Emirates by late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, remarked on Sheikh Zayed’s inspiring legacy as a blueprint for promoting and safeguarding Emirati heritage. The exhibition showcases leadership, diplomacy, and unity, highlighting how Zayed National Museum will illuminate the collective history, culture, and stories of the UAE and its people.

The exhibition is part of a series organized by Zayed National Museum that will tour the UAE. It features a model of Zayed National Museum located in Abu Dhabi's cultural district on Saadiyat Island. Visitors can engage in various activities and workshops inspired by Sheikh Zayed’s life, emphasizing his love for nature and falconry. The event will also host panel discussions focusing on the Union's role in the UAE's founding and development.

Offering an immersive experience, the exhibition presents a collection of artifacts, films, and archival images depicting the life of the Founding Father. It explores his significant life events, cultural and environmental influences that shaped his leadership, and his deep connection with his people through open council meetings. The exhibition also highlights key moments such as his partnership with Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed, featuring photographs capturing their historic meeting and the signing of the UAE constitution in 1971.

With inputs from WAM