UAE adds four cultural traditions to the UNESCO heritage list, reinforcing its leadership in protecting Arab cultural legacy and living traditions.
ABU DHABI: In a major cultural achievement, the United Arab Emirates has successfully added four traditional practices to the UNESCO heritage list, reinforcing its global leadership in protecting Arab culture and heritage. The announcement was made during the 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, held in New Delhi from December 8 to 13, 2025.
The newly inscribed elements include the art of Al-Ahala, a traditional Emirati performing art, and three joint Arab cultural elements which are Al-Bisht, the bride’s procession, and Kohl. These reflect the UAE’s deep-rooted cultural links with the Arab world and its commitment to preserving shared heritage.
Another standout moment was the upgrade of Al Sadu, a traditional Emirati weaving practice, from UNESCO’s list of heritage in need of urgent safeguarding to the prestigious Representative List. The move marks a successful turnaround because of the UAE’s long-term cultural programmes that revived the practice and made it part of daily life.
This development brings the UAE’s total to 19 heritage elements on the UNESCO heritage list. This is the most among Arab nations. These include iconic traditions such as Falconry, Al-Ayyala, Arabic Calligraphy, Al Taghrooda, and the Majlis, among others.
Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Culture, said, “This recognition shows our firm commitment to preserving the UAE’s heritage and passing it on to the next generation. The success of Al Sadu reflects the collaboration between cultural institutions and local communities.”
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, added, “The UNESCO inscription is a major investment in the future of our national identity. Through festivals, creative initiatives, and education, we have ensured these practices continue to thrive.”
The UAE’s cultural efforts are driven by strong partnerships between the Ministry of Culture, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, ALECSO, and other national and regional heritage bodies. More nominations are expected in future rounds as the country aims to expand its global cultural footprint.
These inscriptions on the UNESCO heritage list serve as a powerful global recognition of the UAE’s cultural vision and strategic efforts to ensure living traditions are preserved, celebrated and transmitted to future generations.
