Today's Edition
AMEINAH AL ZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
The inaugural Digital Heritage Forum in Abu Dhabi has gathered the world’s innovators, experts, scholars, and influencers specialising in cultural preservation technologies.
Led by the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the closed event convened 250 international and regional participants, including 132 international speakers and representatives from 128 leading institutions worldwide. It began on November 3 and runs until today, November 5.
By taking the lead in discussing how technology can preserve cultural legacy, Abu Dhabi confirms its position as a cultural capital that cherishes both innovation and tradition.
Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Abu Dhabi stands at a unique crossroads, where deep-rooted heritage intersects with the possibilities of digital innovation, and we remain firmly committed to preserving our legacy while embracing the tools that will carry it forward.”
“Through this forum, we seek to advance global dialogue, encourage collaboration, and equip the next generation with the knowledge and means to protect their heritage,” Al Hosani added.
Speaking to Aletihad, Dr AlAnood AlShaikh, co-chair of the Digital Heritage Forum and postdoctoral associate at New York University Abu Dhabi, said this platform connects experts, specialists, and scholars who integrate contemporary technologies with cultural preservation.
The “Culture in the Data Experience” session, in particular, examines narratives and the narration of intangible heritage. Customs, abilities and knowledge are all part of this intangible heritage that must be preserved so they can be passed on to the next generations, Dr AlShaikh said.
Ona Vileikis, Head of the Documentation and Data Analytics Unit of DCT Abu Dhabi’s Historic Environment Department, said the project was born out of a mission to “connect digital documentation and tradition”.
Dr Felix Vega of the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) commended the initiative and highlighted the importance of facilitating knowledge exchange in safeguarding heritage.
“A country’s heritage contributes to its identity. We can help kids and teens connect with their history and develop a greater feeling of belonging by utilising social media and digital resources,” he said.
