If you’ve spent any time wandering through the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood or watching the sunset over the dunes in Marmoum, you know that the UAE’s heart beats through its traditions. This week, that heart beat a little louder on the global stage.
The UAE has officially secured the inscription of four new cultural elements on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This major announcement came during the 20th session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee held in New Delhi, India. With these new additions, the UAE now has 19 elements recognized by UNESCO—a massive feat that cements the country’s role as a leader in keeping ancient traditions alive in a modern world.
These aren’t just old customs. From sea chants to gold-edged cloaks, they carry the lived stories of the generations who shaped the nation long before the skyline rose.
The Soul of the Sea: Al Ahala rolling in the city
One of the most exciting updates is the solo recognition of Al Ahala. Unlike some other entries that are shared across the region, Al Ahala was listed as a national file specifically for the UAE.
If you haven’t seen an Al Ahala performance, imagine this: up to 60 men gathered in a circle, their voices rising in a powerful, synchronized chant that echoes the rhythms of the Arabian Gulf. Historically, this wasn’t just for show. It was the “soundtrack” of the pearl divers. During those long, grueling months at sea, these chants boosted morale and turned a group of workers into a brotherhood.
What makes Al Ahala unique is that it doesn’t use drums or tambourines. Instead, the rhythm is kept by the khayzaran (bamboo sticks) and the alternating vocal layers of the performers. Seeing this recognized by UNESCO is a huge win for the local arts community in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, ensuring that the “sea songs” of our ancestors won’t be silenced by the hum of the city.
Shared Roots: Al Bisht, Kohl, and the Bride’s Procession
While Al Ahala is uniquely ours, three other elements were registered as joint Arab files. This reflects the beautiful, shared history the UAE has with its neighbors in the Gulf and the wider Arab world.
- Al Bisht: More than just a garment, the Bisht is a symbol of prestige. You’ll see it draped over the shoulders of grooms at weddings or officials at formal events. Crafted from fine wool or camel hair and often finished with intricate gold embroidery (Zari), it’s the ultimate “power suit” of the desert.
- The Bride’s Procession (Zaffa): Anyone who has attended an Emirati wedding knows the energy of the Zaffa. It’s a loud, joyful, and musical walk that marks the transition into a new life. By protecting this under UNESCO, we ensure the rituals—from the henna to the traditional chants—stay authentic.
- Kohl: It’s more than just eyeliner. For centuries, Kohl has been used by both men and women in the region, not just for beauty but to protect the eyes from the harsh desert sun and blowing sand. It’s a small detail of daily life that carries thousands of years of history.
The Comeback of Al Sadu: From “Urgent” to “Thriving”
Perhaps the most emotional part of the announcement was the status change for Al Sadu. For years, this traditional Bedouin weaving craft was on UNESCO’s “Urgent Safeguarding” list, meaning it was at risk of disappearing forever.
Thanks to massive efforts by the UAE’s cultural authorities and local artisans, Al Sadu has been moved to the Representative List. This means the craft is no longer considered “endangered.” Through workshops in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, younger generations are learning to spin goat hair and camel wool into the stunning geometric patterns that decorate our majlises and tents. It’s a true success story of how a community can save its own heritage.
It matters for Life in Dubai Today
You might wonder why UNESCO listings matter when we’re living in a city of the future. The truth is, these traditions provide the “anchor” for our fast-paced lives. When you visit a local festival or see a traditional performance at a mall during National Day, you’re not just seeing a show—you’re seeing a UNESCO-protected piece of human history.
For residents and expats alike, understanding these elements—like the importance of the UAE UNESCO heritage – makes the experience of living here much richer. It’s the difference between seeing a “cloak” and seeing a “Bisht.”
As we look toward 2026, the UAE continues to prove that while we are building the future, we will never forget the hands that wove the first Sadu or the voices that sang Al Ahala across the waves.
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