Government

The Ministry of Culture has signed a cooperation agreement with the UAE Marine Sports Federation to strengthen the preservation and global promotion of the country’s rich maritime heritage. The collaboration will focus on joint research, cultural projects, and training initiatives that align with the UAE’s vision to safeguard its intangible cultural heritage and reinforce its position as a leading international centre for culture and heritage.

The signing took place during the Sir Bu Nair Festival and the third round of the Traditional Wooden Powerboat (Shawaheef) Racing Championship, two major events celebrating Emirati maritime traditions. The festival draws widespread public interest and participation from heritage and traditional sports enthusiasts across the UAE.

The ceremony was attended by H.E. Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture, and H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Chairman of the UAE Marine Sports Federation, along with senior officials, cultural experts, and representatives from the marine sports sector.

Joint efforts to preserve and document traditional sports

The agreement underscores the Ministry’s commitment to safeguarding traditional marine sports through documentation, research, and community engagement. It aims to ensure the sustainability of authentic practices while empowering younger generations to play an active role in their preservation.

Key initiatives under the partnership include:

• Digital documentation of traditional marine sports and practices

• Educational and awareness programs for youth and communities

• Development of an international festival for traditional marine sports, showcasing the sea’s historic influence on Emirati life and identity

The collaboration also strengthens the UAE’s international ties with organizations such as UNESCO and global maritime heritage centres in Asia and Europe, promoting cross-cultural dialogue and knowledge exchange.

Leadership remarks

H.E. Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture, emphasized the deep connection between maritime heritage and Emirati identity, saying:

“Maritime heritage is a cornerstone of the UAE’s national identity and an integral part of our collective memory. Through this agreement, we aim to transform this heritage into a bridge for global cultural dialogue—connecting people through the values of courage, cooperation, and belonging that our forefathers exemplified in their relationship with the sea.”

He added that the Ministry is committed to fostering local and international partnerships to preserve human heritage while opening new opportunities for research, education, and cultural innovation, in line with the UAE’s vision for a sustainable cultural economy.

H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Chairman of the UAE Marine Sports Federation, said the partnership sets a pioneering model for collaboration between the cultural and sports sectors.

“This agreement opens new avenues to position traditional marine sports as ambassadors of Emirati values and authentic heritage on the global stage,” he said.

“Signing this agreement during the Sir Bu Nair Festival reflects the seamless connection between past and present, embodying the Emirati spirit of authenticity that we proudly share with the world.”

The agreement reinforces the UAE’s leadership in protecting shared human heritage and highlights its commitment to cultural identity as a pillar of sustainable national development. It reflects the nation’s civilizational legacy and forward-looking vision to promote heritage as a foundation for global cultural exchange.

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