Cultural diversity propels UAE forward

If there is one thing that stands out in the UAE, it is that it meshes remarkably with cultural differences and habits among its residents. The subject of cultural diversity gains added weight when it comes to the nature of the Emirati experience. That’s because it has been founded on the principles of tolerance and coexistence.

The UAE’s celebration of the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development this year is of special significance, in light of the challenges the world faces from the COVID-19 pandemic

After all, which other country would provide a haven to harbour over 200 different nationalities of various cultures, knowledge, languages, and religions. Living seamlessly together, without any problems or complaints? It is this unique fabric of togetherness that pitchforks the nation into a hallowed realm of cultural bonding not seen anywhere else.

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, cultural diversity has gained more importance.

For more than a year, the COVID-19 crisis has precipitated a cultural diversity crisis. The closure of museums and World Heritage Sites and the cancellation of festivals, concerts and ceremonies have plunged the world of culture into a distressing state of uncertainty, threatening in particular independent creators, who are the lifeblood of cultural diversity.

As Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of Unesco, remarks, ‘’We need cultural diversity more than ever; we need to look at the world from different perspectives. The pandemic has also reminded us of the extent to which culture is a common good, opening up horizons and providing our societies with connection and meaning, making them less solitary and more inclusive. That is why we must help it to recover, in all its strength and diversity.’’

Moreover, Sheikh Nahyan pointed out that because Emirati society with its large expatriate community practises cultural diversity every day, it has become an Emirati societal strength not just at a social level, but also at an economic and knowledge level. He stated that the Emirati experience, which believes in the high value of cultural diversity in enhancing UAE society, expresses the thoughts of a wise leadership, commitment to people, a sincere intent in promoting values of respect for difference, acceptance of others, searching for common interests, and advantageous cooperation with everyone.

Held every year on 21 May, the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development celebrates not only the richness of the world’s cultures, but also the essential role of intercultural dialogue for achieving peace and sustainable development.

Even Zaki Nusseibeh, Minister of State, attests to the heft of cultural diversity in the UAE and its industrial- strength foundation of forbearance.

The unique historic event organised by the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity based in the UAE, to perform to the first multi-faith prayers to end the coronavirus pandemic, is a classic manifestation of this benevolent trait. This initiative, which was launched by the UAE, helped unite all peoples from around the world.

He said the UAE has become a beacon of light and a leading cultural centre, through its many initiatives that aim to build bridges for uniting people from different nationalities living in the country, and by removing the cultural barriers related to customs and traditions between Emirati citizens, residents and foreign visitors.

History has recorded the support of the country’s leadership for reading, science and knowledge, under the framework of a sustainable vision established by the Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Truly, the UAE’s multicultural face has, to put it simply, a glow that is unmatched anywhere else in the world. And that’s what makes it all the more unique.