ABU DHABI: The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has announced the inaugural Abu Dhabi Pearls Festival, running from 17 to 23 January. This unique event celebrates the emirate’s rich maritime heritage and aims to preserve the legacy of pearl diving for future generations.

Held at the Abu Dhabi Pearls Centre in Al Mirfa City, the festival highlights the centre’s role as a sustainable pearl farming pioneer. Established in 2007, the facility promotes local oyster aquaculture, reviving traditional pearl diving practices while safeguarding Abu Dhabi’s cultural and ecological heritage.

Visitors can explore interactive activities, workshops, and entertainment that delve into the emirate’s maritime traditions and pearl-diving history. These experiences aim to strengthen national identity, connect generations, and instil pride in Abu Dhabi’s cultural roots.

Ahmed Al Hashemi, Executive Director of Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity Sector at EAD, stated, “The Abu Dhabi Pearls Festival aligns with the emirate’s vision to promote ecotourism and raise awareness about the Abu Dhabi Pearls Centre. The centre adopts innovative techniques to sustainably farm pearls while preserving the UAE’s heritage, focusing on education, marketing, research, and ecotourism to establish it as a regional destination.”

The festival also includes discussion sessions featuring experts from the UAE and Gulf countries, exploring the Arabian Gulf’s marine cultural heritage. Topics include traditional and modern diving methods, types of Gulf pearls, and strategies to educate young people about this ancient trade.

By blending history, education, and sustainability, the Abu Dhabi Pearls Festival bridges past and present, ensuring the emirate’s pearl-diving legacy thrives in the modern era.