Dubai’s cultural heritage takes center stage on World Tourism Day 2024

MENA Newswire News Desk: As the world celebrates World Tourism Day, Dubai continues to stand out as a leading destination, merging its cultural richness with modern innovation. Recognized globally for its vibrant tourism sector, Dubai remains a top choice for travelers, underlining its status as a city where heritage and progress coexist harmoniously.

The theme for World Tourism Day 2024, “Tourism and Peace,” reflects the role tourism plays in fostering cross-cultural understanding and peaceful relations among nations. Dubai’s unique blend of ancient traditions and futuristic infrastructure makes it a prime example of how tourism can act as a bridge between diverse cultures.

Dubai’s commitment to cultural tourism is supported by its world-class facilities, helping the city secure the No. 1 spot in the 2024 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards for the third year running. This accolade further reinforces Dubai’s status as a premier destination, attracting millions of visitors annually.

Central to Dubai’s cultural tourism is the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, which offers visitors a deep dive into the city’s history through its expansive network of museums and heritage sites. These include the Al Shindagha Museum, the UAE’s largest open-air museum, which showcases local traditions and offers visitors a journey through the nation’s past. The Etihad Museum complements this by focusing on the UAE’s formation, with exhibits detailing the country’s unification process from 1968 to 1974.

Another cultural gem is the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, where visitors can experience Dubai as it was in the mid-19th century. The narrow alleyways and traditional architecture provide a glimpse into the city’s creative identity, firmly rooted in its cultural heritage. Hatta, a picturesque small city recognized by Condé Nast Traveler, adds to Dubai’s cultural allure with its Hatta Heritage Village. The village provides insights into traditional Emirati architecture and offers a window into the region’s rich history and customs.

Dubai’s ancient history is further revealed through its archaeological sites, including Saruq al-Hadid, one of the region’s richest archaeological finds. Discovered in 2002 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the site offers a glimpse into life on the Arabian Peninsula over 300,000 years ago. These artifacts, now housed in the Saruq al-Hadid Museum, highlight the depth of Dubai’s historical significance.

Commenting on the importance of cultural tourism, Muna Faisal Al Gurg, CEO of the Culture and Heritage Sector at Dubai Culture, said, “Dubai’s unique blend of modernity and tradition enhances its tourism appeal. We are committed to safeguarding our heritage while offering innovative cultural experiences for visitors. Dubai’s rich cultural offerings have contributed significantly to the growth of its tourism sector, boosting the emirate’s GDP and further establishing its global appeal as a destination for living, working, and entertainment.”