# Beyond the Monuments: Cultural Preservation

Dubai’s global image often overshadows its deep connection to Emirati heritage. However, significant strategic investment is channeled into ensuring that rapid modernization does not erase the cultural roots of the region.

Heritage Villages and Historical Districts

Areas like Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (Bastakiya) serve as living museums. These districts are deliberately maintained to reflect pre-oil life, offering residents and visitors authentic insights into Bedouin and pearling traditions. Restoration efforts here are meticulous, focusing on traditional architecture and materials.

Promoting Local Arts and Literature

The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority actively supports local Emirati writers, visual artists, and musicians. Festivals and grants are specifically targeted to ensure contemporary art forms reflect and reinterpret traditional themes.

Language Revitalization

Recognizing the dominance of global languages, dedicated programs promote the Arabic language, particularly Emirati dialect, within schools and official communications. This cultural safeguarding is seen as essential for maintaining national identity amidst massive expatriate populations.

The Role of Museums

New cultural institutions, such as the Etihad Museum, focus specifically on narrating the story of the UAE's formation and the foundational principles set by its visionary leaders, ensuring historical context remains central to the national narrative.