UAE Enhances National Heritage and Identity Framework

The UAE's National Identity Committee, led by Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, conducted its inaugural meeting to assess major initiatives aligned with the UAE's National Identity Strategy.

During this session, the committee introduced the National Register of Modern Heritage and revisited the National Identity Values Narrative Guide. These efforts are geared towards reinforcing Emirati identity, safeguarding national heritage, and fostering shared societal values.

The committee explored the execution of crucial components of the National Identity Strategy, which received approval last year. This strategy encapsulates 25 key sectors, including education, media, culture, economy, family, and societal aspects, aiming to enhance the integration of national identity throughout various developmental areas in the UAE.

Sheikha Mariam articulated that national identity transcends mere ideas and manifests itself in everyday practices, language, homes, traditions, and societal contributions. She underscored the significance of family, education, and the principles exemplified by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in molding Emirati identity.

Furthermore, she emphasized the necessity of transforming the National Identity Strategy into actionable priorities with quantifiable outcomes. The strategy aims to harmonize tradition with innovation, diversity with unity, and ambition with humility.

A pivotal announcement during the meeting was the introduction of the National Register of Modern Heritage, aimed at documenting and preserving culturally significant buildings and sites throughout the UAE, particularly those constructed post-1960s. This initiative is crucial for the conservation of national memory, ensuring heritage is transmitted to future generations.

The committee also assessed the National Identity Values Narrative Guide, designed to provide a cohesive framework for defining Emirati identity and values. This guide will assist government entities in formulating policies and programs that resonate with national identity objectives.

Additionally, members discussed advancements related to the National Identity Index, a resource intended to evaluate public awareness, pride, and engagement with national identity. This index will serve as a metric for gauging the success of future initiatives and fortifying social unity among UAE citizens and residents.

An interactive exhibition was conducted during the meeting, highlighting the UAE's National Identity Strategy through four principal themes: Emirati identity values, strategic priorities, cultural attributes, and the newly established National Register of Modern Heritage.

Several high-ranking UAE officials attended the meeting, including Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi, Dr. Sultan bin Saif Al Neyadi, and Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed.

The National Identity Committee oversees the UAE's National Identity Strategy, galvanizing efforts across various sectors to ensure successful execution of initiatives that enrich national belonging and preserve Emirati heritage.