Today's Edition
AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
The 13th Edition of the GCC Conference on Heritage and Oral History themed on “Shared Gulf Social Practices: Rooted Traditions, Inspired Horizons” is being hosted by Abu Dhabi’s Cultural Foundation on October 16-17.
For over a decade, the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) has organised the annual conference, which aims to highlight the shared oral heritage in the Gulf Cooperation Council and its tools to safeguard this legacy. It seeks to engage universities in the GCC states, Gulf associations and institutions supporting the performing arts and heritage.
The conference focuses on maintaining the culture and traditions of Gulf communities, especially the traditional crafts, social practices, performing arts and literature. It also highlights the pivotal role women have had in maintaining and passing down these traditions over generations
Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “By celebrating traditions rooted in authenticity and creativity — from crafts and performing arts to oral literature — we ensure that the wisdom of our ancestors continues to inspire generations to come. This collective heritage is not only a reflection of our past, but also a foundation for our shared future.”
Beyond honouring the past, the conference also examines the ways in which modern technologies, such as artificial intelligence, are transforming the preservation of cultural heritage. AI can now capture the narratives of “traditional knowledge bearers” and turn them into captivating interactive and visual material, experts said.
However, it could be challenging to embrace the digital era without sacrificing cultural authenticity, said Dr. Musa Salem Al Hawari, Head of Interpretation at DCT Abu Dhabi.
Utilising contemporary technology as a bridge between the past and present — rather than only as a tool — is essential, Al Hawari said. “By incorporating heritage into the digital experiences that today's youngsters are accustomed to, we hope to inspire pride, loyalty, and a sense of belonging to their cultural legacy.”
Now in its 13th year, the event has grown to be an essential platform where scholars come together to examine historical accounts, cultural events, and educational projects. Mouza Al Nuaimi, Head of the Intangible Cultural Heritage Research Unit, said: “We embrace the spirit of collaboration as we commemorate the ‘Year of Community’ this year, which reflects the beginnings of Gulf cooperation in the 1980s.”
