The Consular General of the UAE, in collaboration with the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), participated in ‘Reading Day’ celebrations in Barcelona, through organising a mobile “Book Fair” of which the UAE’s was the first foreign country to participate. The event was held in-line with ‘World Book Day’.
The activity is in line with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to make 2016 the “Year of Reading” in the UAE.
Hissa Ahmed Binmasoud, Director of Studies and Research Centre, from Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), said, “We appreciate the participation of our consulate in this important cultural celebration which was held in Catalonia to celebrate ‘World Book Day’, especially since this gesture is gaining additional attention with the announcement ‘Year of Reading 2016’ initiative in the UAE, under the direction of Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.”
Hissa added, “Our commitment to support such initiatives is part of our strategic vision, which aims to encourage cultural exchange between the UAE and the Spain, and provide opportunities for more nations and peoples to learn about Arab culture and heritage”.
The traditions of World Book Day stems from the legendary Catalonian origins dating back to the fifteenth century, and include exchanging books and roses among friends and family members, in order to promote the spirit of friendship and solidarity. Moreover, Spanish writers show their commitment through their interaction with the readers in the streets to sign books and celebrate with them, upholding the values of culture and knowledge.
The General Consulate section also attracted many visitors because of its creative design and the diverse types of books showcased. The variety of works on display garnered widespread attention from curious visitors, who praised the event and learned about the deep-rooted Arab culture of the UAE.
Dubai Culture aims to enrich the cultural scene and draw attention to the city’s rich Arabic heritage through various initiatives. The authority’s mandates focuses to build bridges of constructive dialogue between different civilisations and cultures through constructive initiatives that benefit citizens and residents.
For more information on SIKKA Art Programme, log on to: www.dubaiculture.gov.ae; follow us on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/DubaiCultureArtsAuthority; Twitter: @DubaiCulture; YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/DubaiCulture; and Instagram: @dubaiculture.
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