Dubai Celebrates Erth Awards Recipients for Cultural Preservation

Dubai’s leadership hosted the Erth Dubai Awards ceremony, shining a spotlight on remarkable achievements in upholding the city’s cultural and social heritage. The event took place at the Museum of the Future, attended by notable figures and officials.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum presented the awards with Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, alongside other dignitaries including Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed and Sheikha Latifa.

In his address, Sheikh Hamdan emphasized that Dubai’s international acclaim stems from a robust national identity and well-maintained memories. He remarked on the crucial role of documenting heritage and social evolution in achieving sustainable progress, all while balancing tradition with modern growth.

He acknowledged Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's vision that has integrated cultural identity into Dubai’s development. He described documenting collective memories as a pivotal strategy that elevates Dubai as a global exemplar.

The event experienced an overwhelming response, with over 25,000 submissions from citizens, institutions, and schools, showcasing a collective dedication to safeguarding Dubai’s narrative for future generations.

In the past year, the Erth Dubai initiative recorded 14 million interactions, garnering 25,238 submissions from various sectors. This effort generated over 16,000 documentation pieces, including historical photographs and records, establishing a rich compilation of Dubai’s heritage.

Highlighting Award Recipients

Nasser bin Ahmed bin Issa bin Nasser Al Serkal clinched the Grand Prize of AED 1 million for his outstanding contributions to documenting Dubai’s rich history.

Other notable winners:

• Ghith Mattar Sultan Al Qamzi – Best Family Heritage Documentation

• Ahmed Ayoub Mohammed Noor Abdul Karim – Best Oral Heritage Documentation

• Abdulrahim Mohammed Balghoz Al Zarouni – Best Creatively Documented Entry

• Mohammed Sultan bin Thani – Best Social Media Contribution

In the resident category, Shaukat Ali Rana Mohammed Rafi was recognized for his contributions, highlighting Dubai’s vibrant community.

For Organizations:

• Dubai Electricity and Water Authority earned the title of Best Government Entity

• Uncle’s Shop was recognized as Best Private Sector Entity

• New Academy School received Best Educational Institution

Examining the Jury and Forward-Focused Plans

A specialized jury led by Mohammed Ahmed Al Murr, along with experts in heritage and archival practices, reviewed submissions.

Plans for the future include producing 100 books that encompass narratives from Dubai’s residents, serving as vital resources for scholars and the public, and further solidifying the city’s cultural identity.

The Erth Dubai initiative continues to encourage individuals to contribute their stories, ensuring that the rich tapestry of Dubai’s heritage and community experiences is preserved for generations.