Abu Dhabi Heritage Shines at Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition

The Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority drew massive crowds at the International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition in Al Ain, where it served as the official heritage partner. The event wrapped up yesterday at the ADNEC Al Ain center, with visitors flocking to experience interactive digital displays that brought traditional Emirati life to the present day.

The authority's pavilion offered something for everyone. Visitors could explore traditional clothing displays featuring men's "mahzam" and women's "suwaiya" garments. They could sit in an authentic Emirati majlis that showcased the country's hospitality traditions. Interactive gaming stations and 3D screens made heritage accessible to younger generations who might otherwise find historical content dry.

But the real action happened in the hands-on workshops. Arabic coffee preparation sessions taught visitors the proper rituals for making traditional coffee. Cooking competitions featured classic dishes like harees, qurs, meat majbous, and luqaimat. The yowla competition highlighted the horsemanship and courage values that run deep in Emirati culture.

Rashid Mohammed Al Qubaysi, who manages heritage talent development at the authority, said the huge turnout proves people still care about preserving traditional practices. "The authority designed the pavilion sections to match what visitors want to see," he explained. "We made it easier for new generations to connect with their national heritage."

This approach matters because heritage organizations worldwide struggle to stay relevant. Many young people see traditional culture as outdated or boring. The Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority tackled this problem by mixing old practices with new technology. Instead of just displaying artifacts behind glass, they created experiences where people could actually participate.

The authority plans to expand these interactive elements in future exhibitions. Al Qubaysi said they want to keep developing their participation methods to align with their vision of strengthening Emirati identity. For a country that's rapidly modernizing, finding ways to keep cultural roots alive becomes increasingly important.

The exhibition partnership also shows how government heritage bodies can support cultural events across the UAE. Rather than working in isolation, the authority actively seeks opportunities to reach broader audiences and create meaningful connections with traditional practices.