Today's Edition
RAJEEV CHERIAN (AL MIRFA CITY, AL DHAFRA REGION)
The inaugural Abu Dhabi Pearl Festival commenced in Al Mirfa City, Al Dhafra Region, on Friday, paying tribute to Abu Dhabi’s deeply entrenched pearl diving tradition, which the emirate has preserved by adopting sustainable and innovative aquaculture practices.
The festival, organised by the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, will run until January 23 at the Abu Dhabi Pearls Centre in Al Mirfa City, some 160km west of Abu Dhabi.
Established in 2007 in Al Mirfa, the Abu Dhabi Pearls Centre produces high-quality pearls using the local oyster species Pinctada radiata.
Over the years, the centre has evolved into a plant capable of cultivating approximately 100,000 operated oysters and harvesting 20,000 pearls annually, according to a presentation at the festival.
Speaking to Aletihad, Ayesha Hassan Al Hammari, Unit Head at Abu Dhabi Pearls Centre, said that the event aims to showcase sustainable pearl farming methods and promote eco-tourism.
“We show the visitors the process of producing high-quality pearls from local species in the Arabian Gulf. Once registered, the stations here at the festival familiarise visitors with the role of Abu Dhabi Pearls Centre, the pearl diving heritage, and the methods and tools used in pearl farming. We also host discussion sessions throughout the event with the participation of local and regional experts,” she said.
Nestled along the coast, the venue offers a fitting backdrop to the diverse display of exhibits: Pearls of different colours and sizes, pearl diving equipment and booths offering visitors first-hand knowledge of the age-old practice, once the sole source of sustenance, complemented by written and audio-visual presentations.
Children also find it engaging, with a dedicated corner for painting marine-themed works.
With the subtle notes of oud in the air, experts share insights into the history of pearling and its evolution over the years.
Also on display are jewellery designed by students from Abu Dhabi and Zayed University’s College of Arts and Creative Enterprises, inspired by nature and traditional heritage, using high-quality pearls cultivated by the Abu Dhabi Pearls Centre.
Pearling was a mainstay of the UAE’s economy before the oil boom. The Arabian Gulf waters provided a conducive environment for the industry.
Known in the UAE as “Ghous Al Kabir” or the “big dive”, the main pearling season lasted from June 1 until September 30.
Men, as many as 30, embarked on months-long journeys on boats, exploring the oyster beds in search of pearls. Their return was celebrated with much fanfare and families preparing special food for the occasion, according to the website of Abu Dhabi Culture.
The festival is open daily from 9am until 5pm.
