Serbian Cultural Center ‘Taraba’ brings glimpse of Serbia to Dubai
- 28 Feb 2023
Gulf Today Report
As a step in strengthening Emirati-Serbian relations, the Serbian Cultural Center was inaugurated at Mall of the Emirates Theatre. The opening was attended by Yasser Al-Gergawi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dubai Theater and Director of Sandooq Al-Watan, and the President and founder of the Serbian Cultural Center, Aleksandra Brankovic and the Director of Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia Maja Antolovic and a number of Serbian businessmen.
The participants opened the ceremony by chanting the UAE national anthem and the Serbian national anthem, followed by the speech of Aleksandra, Founder of Serbian Cultural Center. A video about Serbian culture and scenes from Serbian culture were shown, in addition to songs and instrumentals from the Serbian cultural heritage.
In his speech, Yasser Al Gergawi, Chairman of Dubai National Theater, referred to the importance of culture in rapprochement between peoples. He said: “The mutual extension of knowledge and the historical handshake between peoples and generations, and the opening of the Serbian Cultural Center in Dubai is only evidence of this beautiful tolerance, as it opens the Emirati and Serbian cultures to each other on the one hand, and to the rest of the cultures present on the land of the Emirates on the other hand.
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He added: “We are in dire need to understand the peoples who share with us in humanity, are associated with us in spirit, and are consistent with us in their vision to bring the historical, cultural, cognitive and aesthetic distances closer.” Also, the presence of the Serbian Cultural Center in Dubai will give it the opportunity to introduce everything related to Serbs, through the centre’s participation in activities and events related to presenting their cultural perspective on various levels, which will allow space for dialogue and discussion, and joint and mutual cultural knowledge, which is tantamount to promoting Classy, elegant and modern, as well as a desire to highlight the Serbian details in the Emirati environment.
He added: “We hope that this centre will have an important role in activating local and non-local cultural partnerships, through plans for interactive cultural programs with the Emirati environment, because people are thirsty to know each other, and cultural centers are only the key to a door and a bridge crossing towards other cultures, especially since we are We move forward to the future with human comfort, so that future generations are not isolated from other cultures in the world.
Aleksandra said “Taraba” is a Serbian word for fence, a symbol of home, family, and security, and a place where neighbours gather to chat and socialize.”
She added: “The idea of having a centre like this is not only to be a place where we keep our traditions. It is not only a place that connects the Serbian community in the UAE through art, culture, and business. It is a place where the Serbian and all ex-yu community will share part of the culture as a contribution to coexistence with 202 other nationalities in the United Arab Emirates and will happily collaborate with them for the greater good.”
The centre will serve as a hub for the Serbian community in the region, promoting the rich culture and heritage of Serbia. It will also serve as a platform for cultural exchange, fostering greater understanding and appreciation between the Serbian and local communities.
Culture Center Taraba will be a hub of activity, offering a wide range of cultural events and programs for people of all ages. From traditional dance and music performances, and theatre plays to exhibits showcasing Serbian art and history, the centre will provide a diverse range of experiences for the community and will host days of other cultures in the centre.
In addition to serving as a cultural hub, the centre will also provide essential services to the Serbian and ex yu community in Dubai. This includes language classes, information and support for those in need, and opportunities for business networking and collaboration. We believe that the establishment of this centre will have a profound impact on the Serbian community in UAE, helping to build a stronger and more vibrant environment. At the same time, it will also serve to increase awareness and understanding of Serbian culture among the local populations, promoting greater cultural exchange and appreciation.
