Culture

10.10.2026

ISEA2026 Dubai connects global dialogue with artistic experiences across city

DUBAI, 9th October, 2026 (WAM) -- Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has unveiled highlights of the artistic and academic programmes for the 31st International Symposium on Electronic/Emerging Art (ISEA2026 Dubai), taking place from 6 to 15 November 2026 under the theme 'ELYAH: Constellating Place, Data and Identity'. Exploring the intersection of art, science and technology, the symposium supports Dubai Culture's Digital Arts Roadmap by expanding opportunities for creative talent, encouraging experimentation and advancing the digital and emerging arts sector. It also reinforces Dubai's position as a global cultural reference, a leader in innovation and a driver of the creative economy, rooted in Emirati heritage.ISEA2026 Dubai will adopt a hybrid format, combining an in-person artistic programme across multiple venues in Dubai with an online academic programme. This approach will enable artists, researchers and practitioners worldwide to exchange ideas and expertise while connecting international dialogue with artistic experiences across the city. The artistic programme attracted more than 1,000 submissions, with over 100 artworks shortlisted, while more than 150 submissions were shortlisted for the academic programme. The agenda includes over 140 academic papers, more than 40 artist talks and sessions, over 15 workshops, more than 10 panel discussions, seven Eco Labs and four special-track exhibitions and sessions.The academic programme will feature keynote addresses, paper presentations, specialist panels and artist talks. A key strand, the New Media Art Summit, will explore how artistic practices are evolving through digital networks, immersive environments, interactive media and artificial intelligence, connecting research and curatorial perspectives with artistic production, and Eco Labs will examine the relationship between ecological systems, technology and artistic practice.Across Dubai, the artistic programme will bring audiences into contact with digital and emerging art through exhibitions, performances and immersive experiences. The programme includes exhibitions across 20 locations including Al Safa Art & Design Library, Etihad Museum, Kanvas and Foundry Gallery, experiences at ARTE Museum, performances at TODA, and projection mapping at Al Wasl Dome. It will also feature the special track Evolving Calligraphy, Letter Art, Typography, including Calligraphy to Code, exploring how letterforms, writing systems and calligraphic traditions are being reimagined through digital and computational media. These activities will give residents and visitors opportunities to engage with contemporary artistic practice and explore how technology is shaping new forms of expression.Maitha Ali Al Blooshi, Director of the Emerging Arts Department at Dubai Culture, highlighted the symposium's role in strengthening Dubai's international cultural presence and connecting creative practices and disciplines. She said: "The response to ISEA2026 Dubai from around the world reflects the emirate's ability to bring together artists, researchers and practitioners within an environment that encourages innovation and the exchange of ideas. The symposium will give local talent opportunities to learn, experiment and build connections with specialised international networks."She added: "ISEA2026 Dubai brings together diverse disciplines and expertise, creating opportunities for art, research and technology to inform one another. Through collaboration and the development of artistic practice, it supports the growth and sustainability of the digital and emerging arts sector. It also provides a platform to explore how technology, imagination, knowledge and culture can come together to generate new ideas, artworks and creative approaches."The theme 'ELYAH: Constellating Place, Data and Identity' connects four core academic tracks. Celestial Dialogues explores art, technology and the cosmic imagination, examining how the sky and planetary systems shape human experience and cultural meaning. Charting Constellations focuses on mapping, networks, place and identity, exploring the connections between people, data, geographies and stories. Eco-Tech Futures examines ecology, climate, and technological responsibility through artistic practice, while Starlinked Worlds explores how artificial intelligence, digital networks, and virtual environments are changing the ways people create, connect, and share cultural experiences.

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08.10.2026

Canadian poet Anne Carson wins 2026 Nobel Prize in Literature

STOCKHOLM, 8th October, 2026 (WAM) -- Canadian poet and author Anne Carson has been awarded the 2026 Nobel Prize in Literature in recognition of her innovative literary work, which combines playful engagement with classical traditions and the creation of new forms of contemporary literature.The Swedish Academy, which awards the prize, praised Carson's bold and inventive approach to literature. The award carries a cash prize of 12 million Swedish crowns (US$1.2 million).Carson, a Canadian poet and essayist, is renowned for combining poetry, prose, dialogue and translation in works that transcend traditional literary genres.Born in Toronto, Canada, the 76-year-old writer has also held Icelandic citizenship since 2022.

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08.10.2026

Sultan Al Qasimi inaugurates 12th Sharjah Calligraphy Biennale

SHARJAH, 7th October, 2026 (WAM) -- His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, attended the opening of the 12th edition of the Sharjah Calligraphy Biennale, on Wednesday evening, organised by the Department of Culture, taking place at Calligraphy Square in the Heart of Sharjah district until November 15.His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan presented awards to the Sharjah Calligraphy Biennale winners. The Grand Award was given to artist Farhad Yassin from Iraq for his piece "Surah Ar-Rahman". The "Authentic Style" award was received by Abdulbaqi Abu Bakr from Malaysia for "Ahd Al-Muslih" (The Reformer's Covenant), by Ahmed Jalaluddin from Indonesia for "Khutbat al-Wada'" (The Farewell Sermon), and by Mahfouz Dhannoun from Iraq for "Ayat al-Kursi and Qasidat al-Burda".His Highness awarded the winners of the Modern and Contemporary Calligraphy Art Award: Shaimaa Hito (Germany) for "Fann" (Art), Namia Nizar (India) for "Tasurru al-Nazireen" (Pleasing to the Beholder), and Hussain Abdulmohsen (Saudi Arabia) for "Al-Harf al-Arabi wa al-Sadu" (The Arabic Letter and Sadu Weaving). The Jury's Special Award was also given to Mahmoud Al-Abadi, a calligrapher and artist from the United Arab Emirates, for his piece "Khayrukum Khayrukum li-Ahlihi" (The Best of You Are Those Best to Their Families).His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan also recognised three distinguished individuals who have enriched the field of Arabic calligraphy, due to their artistic careers and contributions to improving the aesthetics of the Arabic script, specifically Ali Al Hammadi, the Emirati calligrapher; Belaid Hamidi, the Moroccan academic and calligraphy specialist; and Khalifa El-Shimy, the Egyptian calligrapher and visual artist. This action supports the artists who create this art form and helps to preserve its aesthetic and cultural heritage.At the launch event, Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qasir, Director of the Sharjah Calligraphy Biennale, said the Biennale was established twenty years ago at the direction of the Ruler of Sharjah. This action showed His Highness's view of Arabic calligraphy as an essential part of Arab culture. Al Qasir pointed out that the Biennale, now in its twelfth edition, has become a major reference point for Arabic calligraphy, supports practitioners of the art, and acts as a catalyst for exploring new possibilities for the art form in the current artistic environment.Al Qasir stated that for more than twenty years the Biennale has strived to restore the status of Arabic calligraphy, increase its visibility and development, and promote its interaction with other art forms. It does so by creating dynamic creative environments that showcase the aesthetic qualities and artistic possibilities of Arabic script. He described the main features of the current edition, which includes 90 events-such as exhibitions, art workshops, lectures, and seminars-and displays 681 artworks and calligraphic works by 272 artists and calligraphers from around the world.The Director also pointed out that this edition pays tribute to three highly distinguished creative individuals whose contributions have enriched Arabic calligraphy and enhanced its cultural and artistic standing. He stressed that the Biennale reinforces Sharjah's position as an international destination for culture, art, and beauty, as well as its role as a centre for creative talent and artists worldwide.His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah toured the participating exhibitions celebrating the creative journeys of 145 artists from around the world. This artistic event brings together a diverse range of visions and styles centered on the aesthetics of Arabic calligraphy and its vast expressive potential. His Highness listened to explanations of the artworks, which span various artistic movements and draw inspiration from Arabic script-viewing it as a visual and cultural element that can transform from mere writing into visual art, and from the written word into imagery.His Highness looked at the variety of artworks and the different ways calligraphy has been approached-from efforts to preserve its aesthetic heritage to those presenting it through a new artistic language. While touring the exhibition, visitors can consider the richness of the works on display and discover the continued presence of Arabic calligraphy in the global visual art scene.His Highness also visited the "My Family, My Paradise" exhibition, arranged by the Emirates Society for Arabic Calligraphy and Islamic Ornamentation. The exhibition highlights the importance of family and its essential role in creating a united society and promoting national identity and genuine values, based on Islamic principles of love, affection, compassion, and solidarity. His Highness viewed important works by 11 UAE artists, inspired by verses from the Quran, the Prophet's Hadith, poetry, and aphorisms. The artists expressed the warmth and authenticity of the family as well as its function in instilling values and passing them on from one generation to the next.Accompanying His Highness were Abdullah Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of the Department of Culture; Ali Salem Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Airport Authority; Ali Ahmed Bughazin, Ali Ahmed Abu Ghazin, Chairman of Sharjah Fish Resources Authority; Sultan Mohammed Bin Huwaiden, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities; Dr. Eisa Saif Bin Handhal, Chairman of the Department of Islamic Affairs; Dr Ali Ibrahim Al Marri, Chairman of the Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi Centre; Mohammed Obaid Al Zaabi, Chairman of Sharjah Protocol and Hospitality Department; as well as several senior officials, intellectuals, artists, and calligraphy enthusiasts.

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27.09.2026

Cinema debuts at Sharjah Narrator Forum celebrating stories of friendship

SHARJAH, 26th September, 2026 (WAM) -- For the first time, cinema has joined the programme of the Sharjah International Narrator Forum through a dedicated screening hall offering visitors a selection of films, mainly classic works that celebrate the value and importance of friendship.The new addition provides a different cultural and heritage experience, combining entertainment with a revival of memories from the history of cinema, while complementing the forum's theme. The event began last Wednesday and runs until 27 September, bringing together 120 narrators and researchers from 30 countries.Upon entering the cinema hall, visitors are greeted by a large screen showing films from different periods in cinema history. The setting evokes the era of classic films and gives audiences an opportunity to watch older works that younger generations may not previously have encountered. The cinema also screens films for children.The initiative forms part of the diverse programme offered by the forum. Visitors can experience more than heritage programmes, stories and traditional narratives, with the event also providing a range of cultural and recreational activities, including film screenings.Classic films have attracted particular interest from some visitors because of their artistic value and the memories associated with an important period in cinema history. For younger audiences, meanwhile, they provide an opportunity to discover filmmaking and cinema presentation styles from earlier eras.The cinema hall gives visitors an opportunity to relax and watch a film during their tour of the forum, adding an entertainment dimension to the event and complementing its range of spaces and activities for different age groups.Making its debut at the forum, cinema offers visitors a simple yet distinctive experience, bringing part of the memory of the seventh art back to the big screen and adding a new element to the activities of the Sharjah International Narrator Forum.Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage and chairman of the forum's Supreme Organising Committee, said the cinema programme was directly aligned with this year's theme, "Stories of Friends"."Friendship by its nature is made up of stories, memories and human experiences," he said, adding that cinema has a strong ability to transform such stories into images and scenes that can reach audiences of all ages.He said the initiative was particularly significant because it was the first time a cinema hall had been included in the forum's programme, adding a new artistic and visual dimension to the visitor experience.Cinema at the forum, he explained, does not simply offer screenings, but opens another window onto storytelling, giving stories of friendship a visual form alongside words and oral narration.He added that the cinema programme had also helped diversify the forum's activities and attract new audiences, particularly young people and families. Traditional heritage storytelling, he said, can adapt to modern art forms and reach new generations through different approaches while preserving its human meaning and enduring values.

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12.09.2026

35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair opens tomorrow

ABU DHABI, 12th September, 2026 (WAM) -- Under the patronage of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the 35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF 2026) opens tomorrow at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.Organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), part of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the fair will run from 13th to 18th September, featuring more than 1,500 cultural and knowledge events.This year’s edition welcomes exhibitors from 95 countries, including seven participating for the first time: Argentina, Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Kosovo and Cuba. It will also bring together writers, thinkers, academics, publishers and creatives from around the world.Held under the theme “Turn the Page, Read the World,” ADIBF 2026 will feature Balkan Culture as Guest of Honour in collaboration with the Republic of North Macedonia. Renowned linguist Al Khalil ibn Ahmad Al Farahidi has been selected as the Focus Personality, while Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes is the Book of the World.The fair will open with a ceremony celebrating the UAE through Emirati music and song, followed by the theatrical performance Al Khalil’s Metaphor: The Legend of Love and Survival, inspired by the legacy of Al Khalil ibn Ahmad Al Farahidi and his work on rhythm and metre.The programme will also include Poetry Nights, Podcast from Abu Dhabi and The Next Chapter, alongside musical performances and dedicated spaces celebrating prominent artists, including Abdel Halim Hafez.In line with the UAE’s designation of 2026 as the Year of Family, the programme will place families at the heart of the cultural experience, with dedicated spaces for different generations to engage with books, the Arabic language and Arab heritage.The fair’s agenda includes seminars and panel discussions, alongside the Educational Programme, Children and Young Adults Programme and Professional Programme, as well as a specialised conference addressing quality education and the publishing industry.This year will also see the launch of Emirati Pioneers, an annual initiative documenting the experiences and contributions of leading UAE cultural and intellectual figures. Mohammed Al Murr, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation, has been selected as the first personality to be honoured under the initiative.ADIBF will also host the ceremony honouring the winners of the 20th edition of the Sheikh Zayed Book Award (SZBA) for 2026, recognising achievements in authorship, translation and research and supporting the international presence of Arab culture.The 35th edition further strengthens ADIBF’s position as a global cultural platform supporting publishing and the cultural and creative industries, while advancing Abu Dhabi’s role as a centre for knowledge production and cultural dialogue.

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11.09.2026

Dubai Media Council launches film & gaming forums at Arab Media Summit 2026

DUBAI, 10th September, 2026 (WAM) -- The Dubai Media Council will put the film and gaming industries at the centre of the Arab Media Summit 2026, through 2 dedicated forums organised by the Dubai Films and Games Commission, convening the people who make, fund and publish both industries across the region and the world.The Summit runs from 15 to 17 September under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and under the directives of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council.The Council's participation this year is built around a single question: how does media creativity in film and gaming move from content that is consumed to an economy that is built? The answer starts in Dubai, where global studios and platforms choose the city for the speed of its processes, its infrastructure and its access to markets, not for cost factors alone.Nehal Badri, Secretary General of the Dubai Media Council, said: “Dubai is no longer just a backdrop. It is the city the industry works from: films are produced here, games are launched here and content streams from here to the world. What draws studios and platforms to Dubai is speed, infrastructure and access to markets, and what the emirate is choosing to own is content, intellectual property and talent, the capital of its next economy.”She added: “The Arab Media Summit is where that ambition meets the people who will deliver it: media leaders, creators and investors from across the region and the world. The 2 dedicated forums place film and gaming at the heart of the Arab media conversation, not on its margins.”Hesham Al Olama, CEO of the Media Development Sector at the Dubai Media Council, said: “We are bringing the industry conversation to the people it belongs to: producers, directors, game developers, publishers and investors, meeting in Dubai to turn co production, investment and interactive technology into real projects. Our goal is that a filmmaker or a game developer finds in Dubai the shortest route from idea to screen, and from studio to global markets.”The Games Forum will explore the future of the games sector, including investment and growth opportunities, content, talent development, entrepreneurship and emerging technologies. It will also highlight Dubai’s potential as a centre for game development and production, supported by its digital infrastructure and business environment.The Films Forum will bring together filmmakers, directors, producers, screenwriters and industry experts to discuss the future of film and television production. Discussions will cover co-production, investment, talent development, digital platforms and the impact of artificial intelligence across filmmaking.The Arab Media Summit 2026 is expected to attract around 10,000 media professionals and industry stakeholders, with more than 400 speakers from the region and the world taking part in over 175 sessions examining the future of media and the technological, economic and social shifts shaping the industry.

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09.09.2026

Abu Dhabi Festival’s 23rd edition opens October 10 with global artists

ABU DHABI, 9th September, 2026 (WAM) -- The 23rd edition of Abu Dhabi Festival will commence on 10th October under the theme “The Wisdom of Culture”, featuring an exceptional artistic and cultural programme bringing together a select group of leading international artists and Emirati talents.This edition coincides with the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation, celebrating its journey in supporting creativity and promoting cultural dialogue and exchange.The festival will open with a concert by the UAE National Orchestra, conducted by Maestro François López-Ferrer, while world-renowned composer Hans Zimmer will present an exceptional performance in Abu Dhabi as part of his world tour.The programme will feature a series of musical, operatic and ballet performances by international artists and ensembles, alongside a prominent presence by Emirati artists. It will also launch the Children’s Biennale at Umm Al Emarat Park from 6th November to 6th December, as the first outdoor biennial dedicated to children in the Middle East, in celebration of the Year of the Family in the UAE.The festival continues its mission to support young talents and advance cultural diplomacy through educational and community programmes and international events, underscoring Abu Dhabi’s position as a global destination for culture and the arts.

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04.09.2026

Japanese firm showcases 500-year-old Samurai armour at ADIHEX

ABU DHABI, 3rd September, 2026 (WAM) -- Japanese company Marutake Industry, which specialises in traditional armor manufacturing, showcased a traditional Samurai armour dating back approximately 500 years at the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) 2026.The armour highlights the fine craftsmanship, inherited traditional techniques, and cultural symbolism associated with Japanese armormaking throughout history.Yoichi Ueyama, Business Development Manager at Marutake Industry, told the Emirates News Agency (WAM) that the armour dates back to the 16th century and carries deep cultural and symbolic value, adding that such pieces were crafted exclusively for kings, commanders, and generals.Ueyama emphasised that Samurai armour transcends its functional role as protective gear, serving as a symbol of luck, prosperity, and status, while representing a prized heritage item for families.Detailing the ornate features, Ueyama explained that the gold leafing symbolises luxury and high status. Three elements on the armour represent falcon wings, symbolising power and authority, while the number three signifies good luck in Japanese culture. The dragon motif symbolises good fortune, with its wings representing ascension, ambition, and prosperity.Crafted using traditional methods without machinery, the handcrafted suit weighs over 20 kilogrammes and incorporates iron plates, gold leaf, deer hide, silk threads, horsehair, and wood across its chest, sleeves, arms, and headgear.The iron face mask alone takes around a month to forge using high-level artisanal skills, silk threads, and horsehair. Samurai wore it in battle to conceal their age as a strategic protective measure. The iron and metal helmet weighs approximately 10 kilograms, reflecting the precision and heavy craftsmanship of traditional Samurai armour.

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03.09.2026

Abu Dhabi students explore Emirati heritage at ADIHEX 2026

ABU DHABI, 2nd September, 2026 (WAM) -- The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition 2026 (ADIHEX) continues to enrich the experience of its visitors, including Abu Dhabi schoolchildren who attended a varied programme combining heritage, culture, knowledge and entertainment. Day six of the event, featured a series of live shows, workshops and interactive activities that drew families, children, and enthusiasts of falconry, equestrianism and Emirati heritage.The 23rd edition of the exhibition, the largest in its history, is being held under the theme “A Legacy of Pride” at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, organised by ADNEC Group, a Modon company, in strategic partnership with the Emirates Falconers' Club. The event runs until 6 September, offering diverse content that reflects the exhibition's role as an international platform bringing together heritage preservation, cultural exchange, and educational and entertainment experiences.On day six, several Abu Dhabi schools organised trips for pupils, giving them an educational experience to learn first-hand about various aspects of Emirati heritage and traditional practices. The pupils toured the exhibition halls and learned about activities related to falconry, equestrianism and the Arabian Saluki, as well as taking part in interactive events and workshops. Their attendance aims to help strengthen their knowledge of national heritage and connect younger generations with Emirati identity and culture.Equestrian and falconry displays topped today's agenda, with the audience enjoying Arabian horse shows and simulated falconry hunts, alongside equestrian performances held throughout the day. In the evening, the exhibition also presented a traditional Emirati display of horses and flags, combining equestrian skill, the beauty of the horses, and a celebration of national heritage.The Arabian Saluki, one of the most notable elements of the region's hunting heritage, featured prominently again, drawing crowds to two throughout the afternoon, giving visitors the chance to learn about its characteristics and its place in Emirati heritage. The agenda also included K9 police dog displays, demonstrations of how guard dogs and police dogs are trained to obey and carry out commands, and a showcase of dogs that have been rescued in the UAE.The activities also offered experiences tailored to different groups within the community, including pony rides for People of Determination and visitors, reflecting the exhibition's commitment to inclusive activities that engage all sections of the public.Day six's programme was not limited to Emirati heritage alone; it also gave visitors a window into diverse world cultures and arts, with a drumming and dance performance featuring African acrobatics, while the Shoten Dobai Taiko drummers performed a Japanese drum show later in the day, reflecting the exhibition's cultural dimension and its role in bringing different cultures together.Alongside the live shows, the exhibition hosted a series of workshops and educational activities. These began with a youth workshop as part of the Learning Majlis Youth Workshops. The Emirates Entrepreneurship Association delivered an educational session titled My Time is Wood, exploring the enduring connection between people and nature and how trees served as one of the earliest ways of measuring time before the invention of the clock. The session also highlighted the role of biophilic design in reconnecting people with their roots through the use of wood, water, natural light, ventilation and natural surroundings, fostering a greater sense of tranquillity, focus and belonging.The activities continued into the evening, with the audience enjoying further equestrian shows and displays of riders' skills in various formats, a question-and-answer session on endurance racing and a prize draw announcement.The variety of day six's programme reflects the exhibition's vision of presenting heritage through interactive formats that appeal to all generations, giving visitors the chance to discover authentic Emirati heritage and traditions, alongside cultural, educational and entertainment experiences that reinforce its standing as a leading family and cultural destination and a global platform for celebrating heritage and connecting people.

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02.09.2026

SIFF 2026 announces dates for its 13th edition

SHARJAH, 2nd September, 2026 (WAM) -- The countdown to the 13th Sharjah International Film Festival for Children and Youth (SIFF) has begun, with the festival confirming its dates from 25 October to 1st November 2026 at City Centre Al Zahia, Sharjah, and House of Wisdom, under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and his wife, H.H. Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Family and Community Council.This year, Italy will take centre stage as the Country of Honour, bringing its celebrated cinematic and cultural heritage to children and young audiences in the UAE.Organised by FANN, SIFF 2026 will officially start on 25 October, kicking off eight days of cinema, creativity and cultural exchange. Building on more than a decade of championing cinema for and by younger generations, the festival will bring audiences together through international and Arab films, interactive experiences and opportunities to connect with filmmakers, storytellers and diverse perspectives from around the world.A major highlight of the 2026 edition will be the celebration of Italy as Country of Honour, shining a spotlight on a nation whose influence on world cinema spans generations. The festival will offer children and young audiences the opportunity to discover Italian storytelling and culture through film, while creating a platform for deeper creative exchange between the UAE, Italy and the international filmmaking community.Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi, Director of SIFF, said, “The Sharjah International Film Festival for Children and Youth is privileged to receive the support and guidance of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and his wife, H.H. Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Family and Community Council. Their support reflects Sharjah’s longstanding belief in the importance of investing in children and youth, empowering them with the tools of knowledge and creativity, and opening new horizons for them to express themselves and discover the world around them”.She added, “Cinema gives children and youth the opportunity to see the world through different eyes, opening windows onto new cultures, ideas and experiences, while encouraging them to think creatively and tell stories of their own. With every edition of SIFF, our ambition is to create a space where young audiences can discover, question, imagine and be inspired. As we prepare to launch our 13th edition, we are delighted to celebrate Italy as our Country of Honour and introduce a new generation to its extraordinary cinematic and cultural legacy.”The 13th edition will continue this mission, transforming City Centre Al Zahia & House of Wisdom into a meeting point for cinema, culture and young creativity for eight days, further strengthening Sharjah’s position as a leading regional destination for arts, culture and initiatives that celebrate and empower younger generations.

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01.09.2026

Inpex showcases Japanese-Emirati falconry ties at ADIHEX 2026

ABU DHABI, 1st September, 2026 (WAM) -- Japan Oil Development Co., Ltd. (Inpex) highlighted the cultural parallels in falconry and raptor conservation between Japan and the United Arab Emirates during its participation at the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX 2026).Masato Kamiya, Country Chair Abu Dhabi, Managing Director of Inpex, told the Emirates News Agency (WAM) that the event serves as a platform to deepen ties by celebrating shared values, noting ongoing collaborations with local entities such as the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and the Emirates Falconers' Club.The company's pavilion features traditional Japanese crafts, including samurai katana swords, armour, falconry gloves, and traditional tea, alongside cultural performances.

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01.09.2026

Strong visitor turnout for heritage activities, Arabian Saluki Shows, educational workshops at ADIHEX 2026

ABU DHABI, 31st August, 2026 (WAM) – Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Emirates Falconers' Club, The fourth day of the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX 2026), taking place under the theme "A Legacy of Pride", attracted strong visitor turnout from the early hours of the day. Family attendance increased significantly during the evening, with the exhibition welcoming visitors daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.The 23rd edition of the exhibition, the largest in its history, continues to deliver a diverse programme that brings together heritage, culture, entertainment and education, alongside equestrian, falconry and Arabian Saluki displays, as well as interactive activities. Designed to appeal to visitors of all ages, the programme offers a comprehensive experience and further reinforces the exhibition's status as a leading family and cultural destination.The fourth day's programme featured a variety of live performances, beginning in the morning with an Arabian horse showcase, followed by police dog obedience demonstrations, pony riding experiences and trained dog displays that attracted visitors of all ages.Activities continued throughout the afternoon with falconry-inspired demonstrations, alongside performances by African drum, dance and acrobatic groups, as well as Japanese Taiko drum performances, adding further cultural diversity and entertainment to the exhibition's daily programme.Equestrian and Emirati heritage performances attracted significant visitor interest. The programme included a traditional Emirati horse and flag display, Arabian horse showcases and a variety of equestrian performances. Arabian Saluki demonstrations also drew considerable attention, highlighting the breed's important place in Emirati heritage and its historic association with the daily lives and traditions of previous generations.The evening programme combined horse-riding performances with falconry demonstrations, in addition to traditional maritime-themed performances. Visitors also enjoyed the heritage-inspired Tshouleeb performance before the evening programme concluded with additional equestrian and falconry displays.As part of the exhibition's educational and awareness activities, the Learning Majlis hosted a youth workshop alongside interactive visitor activities. Abu Dhabi Police also delivered a series of awareness initiatives through the Community Police Department, including a workshop highlighting the dangers of drug abuse.The programme additionally featured a specialised session on pre-purchase horse examinations, which explored the importance of veterinary assessments prior to purchasing horses, as well as a session dedicated to free diving.The strong attendance recorded on the fourth day reflected the diversity of the exhibition's audience. Morning activities attracted enthusiasts, specialists and professionals from the hunting, equestrian sports, heritage and outdoor adventure sectors, while the evening programme welcomed increasing numbers of families and children following the first day of the new academic year, allowing them to enjoy the exhibition's live performances, interactive activities and heritage experiences.ADIHEX 2026 continues to offer a rich programme of experiences and activities throughout its ten-day run, combining the preservation and promotion of Emirati heritage with cultural, educational and interactive experiences designed to engage all segments of society. Through its diverse programme, the exhibition continues to advance its mission of passing the values of heritage on to future generations and strengthening their connection to national identity.

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30.08.2026

'Emirates Loves Palestine' participants celebrate UAE success stories

DUBAI, 29th August, 2026 (WAM) -- Members of the Palestinian community celebrated their culture, heritage, and success stories in the UAE during the "Emirates Loves Palestine" event at Expo City Dubai, which drew more than 50,000 visitors.Abeer Al Ramahi, Ambassador of the State of Palestine to the UAE, told the Emirates News Agency (WAM) that the event represents a message of love and solidarity from the UAE to Palestine and its people.She affirmed that the Palestinian community holds deep appreciation and loyalty to the UAE, where they have found opportunities to work and succeed, adding that Palestine reciprocates the love and commitment shown by the Emirates.Hamood Al Afari, Director of UAE Relief Operations, expressed delight at attending the event alongside members of the Palestinian community, emphasising that the gatherings reflect the strong ties of brotherhood between both peoples.Zahr Al Najjar, manager of the "Emirates Loves Palestine" digital community platform, expressed pride at seeing thousands gather for the inaugural event. She noted that the occasion provided a comprehensive cultural experience featuring Palestinian heritage, art, theater, and traditional markets, creating an atmosphere that made attendees feel at home.Majd Naji, Founder and CEO of Liberty Dental Clinic and a strategic partner in the Dubai Health Tourism Council, shared his happiness at participating in the event. He highlighted the presence of attendees of various nationalities, as well as visitors from outside the UAE, who came together to express their support and celebrate Palestinian culture.

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CATEGORIES

ISEA2026 Dubai connects global dialogue with artistic experiences across city

Canadian poet Anne Carson wins 2026 Nobel Prize in Literature

Sultan Al Qasimi inaugurates 12th Sharjah Calligraphy Biennale

Cinema debuts at Sharjah Narrator Forum celebrating stories of friendship

35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair opens tomorrow

Dubai Media Council launches film & gaming forums at Arab Media Summit 2026

Abu Dhabi Festival’s 23rd edition opens October 10 with global artists

Japanese firm showcases 500-year-old Samurai armour at ADIHEX

Abu Dhabi students explore Emirati heritage at ADIHEX 2026

SIFF 2026 announces dates for its 13th edition

Inpex showcases Japanese-Emirati falconry ties at ADIHEX 2026

Strong visitor turnout for heritage activities, Arabian Saluki Shows, educational workshops at ADIHEX 2026

'Emirates Loves Palestine' participants celebrate UAE success stories

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