Art and culture

Al Shindagha Museum Preserving Dubai’s Heritage for the Future By Ruba Al Sarahneh On the banks of Dubai Creek, where wooden dhows once carried pearls and spices and wrote the first chapters of the emirate’s story, stands Al Shindagha Museum  a living witness to a city’s journey that bridges past and present. Here, visitors do not merely view historical artifacts; they immerse themselves in an experience that transports them into the homes of rulers and merchants, hearing the voices of generations that shaped Dubai’s identity. In an age where the emirate is often defined by skyscrapers and technology, Al Shindagha Museum reminds us that Dubai’s true strength begins with its roots. The Historical Significance of Al Shindagha Al Shindagha district occupies a special place in Dubai’s history. It was once the seat of the Al Maktoum ruling family in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and from this place, Dubai began its transformation from a small trading port into a global hub. According to Dubai Culture, the restoration project has converted more than 180 historic houses into cultural venues, turning the area into the emirate’s largest open-air museum. This scale reflects Dubai’s ambition to preserve heritage while making it accessible to millions of visitors. Layout and Thematic Pavilions Al Shindagha Museum is not a single building but a district of museums, each housed in restored heritage homes with a thematic focus. Collectively, they form a mosaic of cultural narratives. Perfume House: Chronicles the history of fragrances in the UAE, highlighting traditional ingredients like oud and frankincense, and showcasing how perfumes are interwoven with Emirati identity. Culture and Living Pavilion: Dedicated to social traditions, family structures, and Emirati customs, offering an intimate look at how people lived, celebrated, and preserved their values. Governance and Society Pavilion: Focuses on law, leadership, and governance, honoring the ruling family’s role in shaping Dubai’s path of development. Trade and Innovation Exhibits: Shed light on Dubai’s long-standing commercial heritage, especially in pearls, spices, and textiles, and connect these roots to the emirate’s current role as a global trade hub. Storytelling through Innovation What sets Al Shindagha Museum apart is its blend of heritage and innovation. The museum doesn’t rely solely on static displays but leverages immersive storytelling through: Interactive digital screens displaying historical maps and documents. 3D films recreating scenes from Dubai’s early days. Audio narratives where Emiratis recount their ancestors’ experiences. This ensures that new generations and international visitors engage with history in an accessible, captivating way. It reflects Dubai’s philosophy: preserving heritage doesn’t mean freezing it in time but re-telling it in ways that resonate with the modern world. Cultural and Social Impact Al Shindagha Museum is more than a tourist attraction; it is a cultural and educational platform. In 2023, Dubai welcomed 17.15 million international visitors (Dubai Tourism data), and cultural sites like Al Shindagha are increasingly central to this experience. The Dubai Historic District Project aims to attract 12 million visitors annually by 2025, positioning heritage as a cornerstone of the tourism economy. For Emiratis, the museum strengthens identity and pride, allowing families and students to reconnect with their roots. For expatriates and international visitors, it provides an authentic perspective on Emirati culture that goes beyond skyscrapers and luxury. Education and Community Engagement: Keeping Heritage Alive Beyond its role as a heritage landmark, Al Shindagha Museum functions as a living classroom where history becomes tangible for new generations. In a city where futuristic skylines and cutting-edge technologies often dominate the narrative, the museum plays a crucial role in reminding residents and visitors alike that the foundations of Dubai’s global success are rooted in culture, memory, and human experience. For schools and universities across the UAE, Al Shindagha has become an essential destination for experiential learning. Instead of reading about history in textbooks, students can walk through authentic heritage houses, feel the cool shade of barajeel wind towers, and visualize how families once gathered in open courtyards. This direct engagement with heritage creates an educational experience that is not only informative but also deeply emotional. Teachers report that visits to the museum spark curiosity among students, encouraging them to ask questions about how their ancestors lived, traded, and governed. Such interactions strengthen a sense of national pride while ensuring that cultural identity remains relevant in a rapidly globalizing society. The museum also offers specially designed educational programs and workshops tailored for young learners. These include storytelling sessions where Emirati elders share oral histories, craft workshops that teach children traditional skills such as weaving and pottery, and digital activities that blend interactive media with historical content. By combining tradition with innovation, these initiatives make heritage accessible to a generation raised in the digital age. For many Emirati children, the museum provides the first opportunity to understand the sacrifices and values that shaped their country, anchoring their identity in a fast-changing world. Al Shindagha’s role, however, extends beyond the classroom. It actively engages the wider community by serving as a space where Emiratis and expatriates can connect through shared cultural experiences. Community events, seasonal festivals, and public lectures bring together people of different backgrounds to celebrate the richness of Emirati traditions. For expatriates, who make up the majority of Dubai’s population, the museum offers an authentic entry point into the local culture, allowing them to develop a deeper appreciation of the society they live in. This inclusive approach positions the museum not just as a cultural institution but as a bridge fostering dialogue between communities. One of the most impactful aspects of Al Shindagha’s community role is its collaboration with local artisans and cultural practitioners. By hosting demonstrations of traditional crafts, from pearl diving techniques to textile weaving, the museum ensures that intangible heritage is passed down to younger generations. These demonstrations are not staged performances but genuine efforts to keep fading traditions alive. Many artisans see the museum as a platform to showcase their skills, generate income, and inspire apprenticeships. In this sense, the museum not only preserves the past but also sustains living heritage for the future. The museum’s educational and

Abdellatif Bekhouche on UAE Media Progress A Future Built on Innovation and Purpose By Hafsa Qadeer What sets the UAE’s media landscape apart from the wider Middle East, says Abdellatif Bekhouche, is its diversity and uniqueness, as the country has opened its doors to both regional and international media institutions, creating a welcoming environment for new outlets and supporting their growth. This openness has attracted some of the world’s leading media organizations, reshaping the region’s media map and fostering an ecosystem where local and global players coexist to produce purposeful, high-quality content that influences not only the Arab world but audiences far beyond. The role of world-class media zones such as Dubai Media City, Studio City, and Abu Dhabi’s twofour54 has been instrumental in building this progress. By hosting international giants alongside innovative local outlets, offering advanced infrastructure, and nurturing creativity through incentives and collaboration, these hubs have positioned the UAE as a leader in media development, driving innovation and content production while cementing the nation’s place on the global stage. Media, often described as the fourth estate, has become a key instrument of the UAE’s soft power. From his years as a correspondent for France 24 in Dubai, Abdellatif Bekhouche witnessed firsthand how international media based in the Emirates shaped Arab public opinion through credibility, balance, and trust. Reports produced from Dubai resonated widely, proving the country’s role as a platform for meaningful storytelling. Similarly, his experience at CNBC Arabia highlighted how the UAE has used media to drive economic influence, with coverage of finance, markets, and business shaping perspectives across the region. Together these experiences reflect how the Emirates has amplified its influence, bridging global narratives, strengthening credibility, and positioning itself as both an economic and political voice of authority. The UAE’s approach to storytelling is equally remarkable, blending tradition with innovation. Sharjah, in particular, stands as a cultural model by linking festivals, book fairs, and artistic platforms into powerful storytelling experiences that preserve heritage while reaching international audiences. Bekhouche recalls how, during his time covering cultural movements for the Saudi Cultural Channel, he saw firsthand how the Emirates not only protects its traditions but transforms them into impactful narratives that resonate globally, merging authenticity with creativity in a way that connects diverse audiences. What excites Abdellatif Bekhouche most about the future is how the UAE integrates emerging technologies like AI, AR, VR, and advanced digital platforms into journalism without losing sight of substance. The innovation here is not about replacing tradition but enhancing it, making stories more interactive, engaging, and relevant. With media zones like Dubai Media City, twofour54, and Sharjah’s cultural institutions leading this transformation, the UAE is poised to set new global standards by combining technology with authenticity to produce content that is both credible and impactful. This evolution is also shaped by the UAE’s demographic diversity. Home to over 200 nationalities, the country’s media platforms serve as inclusive spaces that reflect this multiculturalism while keeping Emirati traditions and identity at the core. By producing multilingual content that resonates worldwide while grounding stories in local culture, the UAE has created a model that celebrates diversity without losing authenticity. Major events such as Expo 2020 Dubai and COP28 have further elevated the country’s media profile. Covering these milestones firsthand, Abdellatif Bekhouche witnessed how the UAE’s ambition and strategic communication not only showcased its achievements but also enhanced its global reputation. Through such platforms, the Emirates has demonstrated how effective media engagement can amplify soft power, unify narratives, and inspire global respect. Looking ahead, Bekhouche hopes to see a headline that reads “UAE Leads the World in Innovative and Purposeful Media.” Such a future would reflect a landscape where creativity, cultural depth, and cutting-edge technology combine seamlessly, where the country continues to serve as a hub for international media while nurturing local talent, and where the content produced informs, inspires, and connects audiences across the globe. It would signify not just technological progress but also the UAE’s unwavering commitment to credibility, authenticity, and meaningful storytelling.

Saudi Arabia Celebrates 95th National Day with Spectacular Concerts, Military Shows, and Nationwide Festivities By Alhanouf Mohammed Alrowaili Riyadh, September 23, 2025 – Saudi Arabia is celebrating its 95th National Day with an unprecedented lineup of cultural, musical, and military events across the Kingdom, reflecting national pride, unity, and the country’s growing stature on the global stage. The festivities, organized by the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) in collaboration with various government bodies, aim to offer citizens and residents an unforgettable experience filled with patriotism and joy. Star-Studded Concerts Across the Kingdom A series of high-profile concerts began on September 22, featuring a lineup of the Arab world’s most beloved artists. Superstar Ahlam opened the celebrations with a performance at Dhahran Expo, conducted by maestro Medhat Khamis. Meanwhile, in Jeddah, Fouad Abdelwahed and Omaima Taleb delivered a night of classic and contemporary hits at the Abadi Al Johar Arena. On National Day itself (September 23), legendary Saudi singer Abadi Al Johar will headline a concert at Qassim University, joined by rising star Nawaf Al Jabarti under the direction of maestro Amir Abdel Majeed. The musical celebrations will conclude on September 24, with acclaimed artist Assala Nasri taking the stage at the Engineer Mohammed bin Saad Al Bawardi Theater in Shaqra, accompanied by maestro Tamer Fayed, delivering a soulful performance to mark the occasion. “Izz Al-Watan” A Grand Tribute by the Ministry of Interior In partnership with the GEA, the Ministry of Interior is hosting the signature event “Izz Al-Watan” on September 22 and 23 at the Binban area in Riyadh, from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. The event showcases a comprehensive national program that highlights the Ministry’s role in safeguarding the nation and serving its people, aligned with the broader goals of Vision 2030. At the heart of the program are live military displays, taking place nightly at 8:00 p.m., featuring tactical demonstrations by various sectors of the Ministry. These visually captivating performances will be accompanied by a military orchestra, blending precision with patriotic melodies rooted in the Kingdom’s cultural memory. At 9:00 p.m., fireworks will light up the skies, delivering messages of unity and pride. Visitors will also enjoy a wide range of activities, including immersive exhibits showcasing the Ministry’s digital platforms, most notably Absher, alongside awareness exhibitions in road safety, cybersecurity, and civil defense. The event also includes national-themed operettas, stage shows, interactive zones, and a military theater performance that blends drama, music, and modern production in what is being described as the first of its kind in the Kingdom. Visitors can engage in simulated military operations, live shooting experiences, and enjoy a selection of Saudi cuisine at designated food courts. Air Shows, Naval Displays, and Fireworks Nationwide Adding to the celebration, Chairman of the GEA, HE Turki Alalshikh, announced a Kingdom-wide schedule of aerial, naval, and ground displays. These will be held across multiple regions in partnership with entities including the Royal Guard, Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Interior, National Guard, the General Authority of Civil Aviation, and Saudi Arabian Airlines, among others. Air shows will paint the skies with the colors of the national flag through dazzling aerobatic maneuvers, while naval parades featuring frigates and patrol boats will take place along Saudi shores. These displays will be accompanied by musical parades and vehicle exhibitions, forming an integrated celebration of national identity. A synchronized fireworks show is set to launch at 9:00 p.m. on September 23 across 14 cities, creating a unified national spectacle. Riyadh’s main show will take place in Binban, while other cities such as Jeddah, Dammam, Medina, Abha, Tabuk, Buraidah, and Najran will host local displays at iconic venues, offering citizens across the Kingdom a chance to participate in the celebrations.

Fight of the Century Draws Global Spotlight as Saudi Arabia Sets New Benchmarks in Sports and Entertainment By Alhanouf Mohammed Alrowaili In a landmark moment for global sports and entertainment, the much-anticipated bout between Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez and Terence Crawford, staged at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas as part of Riyadh Season 2025, has become the most-watched boxing match of the century. Streaming exclusively on Netflix, the event attracted over 41 million viewers worldwide, setting a new benchmark for viewership in the sport. The showdown, which ended in a unanimous decision victory for the American Crawford, drew a record-breaking live audience of more than 70,000 fans the largest ever for an indoor boxing event in U.S. history. The gate revenue exceeded $47.2 million, marking the highest single-day income in Allegiant Stadium’s history. With this victory, Crawford became the first boxer in history to claim undisputed titles in three different weight classes, solidifying his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats. The event featured an unprecedented production scale, involving over 1,200 personnel and 55 cameras to deliver a truly cinematic sports experience recognized as the most extensive production in modern boxing. In the lead-up to the main event, fans witnessed an electrifying Public Workout session featuring five high-stakes undercard bouts. Highlights included undefeated Kazakh fighter Bek Nurmaganbet taking on Steven Sumpter, and Cuban knockout artist Yoandy Toirac facing off against Skylar Lacy. These matchups added depth and intensity to an already historic night. The success of the event further underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing influence on the global entertainment and sports stage, largely driven by Riyadh Season and the strategic leadership of HE Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA). Beyond boxing, Riyadh Season also celebrated a creative milestone. The GEA’s creative partner, Big Time Creative Shop, became the first agency from the Arab World, Africa, or Asia to win a prestigious Emmy® Award. The agency took home the honor in the “Outstanding Promotional Announcement” category for its work on the Usyk vs. Fury: Reignited campaign, showcasing the Kingdom’s rising stature in global media innovation. In another major achievement, the traveling entertainment experience “City Hub” concluded its 98-day journey across seven Saudi cities, attracting over one million visitors and generating more than 10,000 jobs. With 49 diverse events tailored to families, youth, and children, “City Hub” demonstrated the GEA’s commitment to cultural accessibility, economic impact, and regional inclusion. As Saudi Arabia continues to deliver world-class events and creative excellence, it solidifies its position as a global powerhouse in entertainment turning vision into reality and audiences into believers.

Loneliness in the Age of Connection By Ami Jain The world that never stops buzzing, where our phones light up before our eyes fully open and the hum of notifications follows us everywhere, it feels impossible to imagine being alone. Yet beneath the surface of constant connectivity, many of us carry a quiet, unshakable truth: the more connected we become, the lonelier we often feel. This is the paradox of our age, one we rarely name out loud but one that defines our days in ways we are only beginning to understand.

Sara Altamimi Weaving Heritage, Elegance, and Sustainability into the Future of Fashion By Jane Stevens From the heart of Abu Dhabi, Sara Altamimi is quietly reshaping what fashion can and should be. As the founder of her namesake brand, she has built a creative house rooted in responsibility, heritage, and artistry, where garments are not fleeting trends but timeless pieces that tell a story. Her collections, crafted from sustainable materials and designed with longevity in mind, are intended to endure for a lifetime while carrying the spirit of both past and future. For Sara, fashion has never been about consumption alone. From the beginning, she believed it should serve as a cultural dialogue, an exchange that honors the planet while celebrating artistry. “Sustainability is not a trend,” she often says, “it is the only way forward if fashion is to have meaning in the next century.” Drawing inspiration from the UAE, a nation that balances deep-rooted tradition with modern vision, she channels the energy of Abu Dhabi into her designs, creating garments that connect local heritage with global relevance. This philosophy has shaped not just how her pieces look, but how they are made. Respecting the environment pushes Sara to innovate, combining traditional craftsmanship with experimental textures and silhouettes that spark a dialogue between eras.  Her approach to luxury is thoughtful and deliberate: slow processes, ethical sourcing, and close collaborations with artisans. For her, true luxury is no longer defined by abundance but by the depth of respect a garment shows to culture, craft, and nature. Among her many creations, one holds a special place in her heart: a red puff-sleeve raglan shoulder coat made from 100% Italian mulesing-free wool. Beyond its striking texture and silhouette, the piece carries a personal story. Its design was inspired by one of her mother’s jackets from the 1980s, a reminder that heritage and memory can be seamlessly woven into modern design. Sara’s work is guided by research, exploration, and human connection. She spends time at fabric exhibitions around the world, meeting manufacturers and artisans, and discovering new techniques and materials. For her, transparency is as important as design; she believes people deserve to know where their clothes come from and what touches their skin. Ethics guide every step of the journey, from the initial concept to the final garment. But beyond materials and process, what Sara truly wants is for her creations to empower the wearer. To her, each garment is like a fragment of history rewritten for the future, designed to embody both elegance and responsibility. When something fits beautifully, highlights the body, and moves with ease, she believes it transforms into a lifetime treasure, not just a garment. The journey hasn’t been without its challenges. In an industry driven by speed and volume, Sara has had to resist the pressure to produce more, faster. Choosing quality over quantity requires courage and conviction, but these choices have strengthened her vision and built a community that shares her values. “Fashion must be part of the solution, not the problem,” she emphasizes, a belief that guides everything she creates. Looking ahead, Sara envisions her brand as a new kind of fashion house from the UAE, one that speaks to the world while protecting the environment and celebrating heritage. For her, the future of fashion lies in sustainability, not as a compromise, but as a form of innovation. Through her work, she hopes to prove that true progress is rooted in respect: respect for tradition, for artistry, and for the planet. Sara Altamimi’s designs are more than clothing, they are cultural statements, timeless heirlooms, and quiet rebellions against excess. In her vision, fashion’s future is not just beautiful, but meaningful.