Page 16 - MOC PR REPORT - OCT 2025

Ministry of Culture and UAE Marine Sports Federation Partner to

Preserve Maritime Heritage and Elevate its Global Profile

Abu Dhabi, October 21, 2025: The Ministry of Culture and the UAE Marine Sports Federation

signed a cooperation agreement to preserve the sustainability of the nation’s maritime heritage and
promote it on global scale. The partnership will drive joint research, cultural projects, and training

programs, in line with the UAE’s vision to safeguard its intangible cultural heritage and reinforce
its position as a leading global hub for culture and heritage.

The signing ceremony was held during the Sir Bu Nair Festival and the third round of the

Traditional Wooden Powerboat (Shawaheef) Racing Championship - one of the nation’s most
prominent maritime events celebrating Emirati heritage. The festival attracts wide public

participation, drawing heritage and traditional sports enthusiasts from across the country.

The event was attended by H.E. Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture, H.E.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Chairman of the UAE Marine Sports
Federation, along with a distinguished group of senior officials and experts in culture, heritage,

and marine sports.

The agreement supports the Ministry’s efforts to safeguard traditional sports by documenting
authentic practices, developing mechanisms to ensure their protection and sustainability, and

empowering communities to actively participate in their preservation.

It outlines strategic programs including the digital documentation of traditional marine sports,

educational and awareness initiatives for youth, and the development of an international festival

for traditional marine sports, highlighting the sea’s historical role in shaping Emirati identity.

The agreement also promotes international collaboration with organizations such as the United
Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and leading maritime

heritage centres across Asia and Europe.

H.E. Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture, said: “Maritime heritage is a
cornerstone of the UAE’s national identity and an integral part of our collective memory. Through

this agreement, we aim to transform this heritage into a bridge for global cultural dialogue—

مﺎﻋ General