Hamdan bin Mohammed Strengthens Heritage with AED1 Million Grant for ‘Dubai Dates’ Participants
Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, has announced a grant of AED1 million to support participants in the ‘Dubai Dates’ event. This initiative acknowledges the vital role these participants play in preserving and promoting the UAE’s national heritage. The grant is part of His Highness’s ongoing commitment to the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center and aims to ensure the sustainability of initiatives that benefit both heritage and society.
The grant underscores the significance of the palm tree as a national symbol deeply rooted in Emirati culture and identity. It serves as direct support for palm owners, farmers, and participants whose contributions have been instrumental in the success of the event’s third edition, reinforcing its community message.
His Excellency Abdullah Hamdan bin Dalmook, CEO of the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center, expressed gratitude to Sheikh Hamdan for this recognition. He emphasized that the grant highlights the leadership’s commitment to heritage and identity, stating that safeguarding these values begins with empowering the people who uphold them.
His Excellency remarked that the grant is not just financial support but a recognition of the participants’ efforts in promoting the palm tree and national heritage. He noted that this initiative reflects a leadership perspective that views heritage as a collective responsibility, achieved through action and continuous encouragement.
Incentive for Participants and Organisers Alike
The CEO further affirmed that the Center will continue to enhance the presence of national heritage symbols through events that blend authenticity with development. He stated that the grant serves as a significant incentive for both participants and organizers, placing a greater responsibility on them to develop ‘Dubai Dates’ in alignment with His Highness’s vision, which reflects the authentic cultural identity of Dubai and the UAE.
Organized by the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center from July 18 to 26, 2026, at Qalaat Al Rimal on the Dubai–Al Ain Road, ‘Dubai Dates’ concluded its third edition with a series of vibrant competitions and activities, attracting substantial public attendance and numerous official visits. This edition reaffirmed the palm tree’s role in uniting the community around its enduring value, not merely as a symbol of the past but as a living presence in homes, farms, and institutions.
The final day featured the crowning of the winners of the ‘Al Nader Cup,’ one of the event’s most prestigious competitions. Winners were honored by His Excellency Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai, alongside His Excellency Abdullah Hamdan bin Dalmook and Rashid Mubarak bin Markhan Al Ketbi, Deputy CEO of the Center. The closing event showcased exceptional standards of competition, reflecting participants’ expertise in palm tree care and selection.
Shield of Excellence
Ateeq Saif Al Omaimi was awarded the ‘Al Das Al Thahabi’ Award, the Shield of Excellence, for achieving the highest total points across the event’s competitions. This recognition celebrates continuity, consistency, and quality of participation throughout the event.
‘Dubai Dates’ garnered significant attention from national figures, officials, and representatives of government entities, highlighting the palm tree’s deep-rooted significance in Emirati culture. The event’s message extends beyond competition, fostering a sense of belonging and loyalty to heritage.
The strong participation in the event affirmed that safeguarding heritage is a national responsibility, with institutions and society playing complementary roles. The palm tree, rich in historical, cultural, and social symbolism, continues to unite generations around values of pride in the land and commitment to identity.
Tribute to Enduring Symbols
In a gesture of loyalty and appreciation, ‘Dubai Dates’ presented the Dubai Dates Medal 2026 to the late Abdullah bin Rashid Al Shamsi and Dr. Rashid Ahmed Al Mazrouei. This award recognizes their significant contributions to the palm tree sector, including preserving its varieties and documenting related knowledge, which has left a lasting impact on farmers, researchers, and those interested in Emirati agricultural heritage.
The closing ceremony also honored sponsors, supporting entities, and participating organizations for their roles in the success of the third edition. This recognition underscores that the success of ‘Dubai Dates’ relies on the collaborative efforts between the Center and its partners, reinforcing the belief that serving heritage is a collective responsibility.
A Renewed Legacy
Throughout its third edition, ‘Dubai Dates’ featured numerous platforms and activities showcasing some of the finest varieties of fresh dates and palm seedlings. Educational and interactive workshops aimed at families, children, and visitors helped present the date season in a community-oriented manner, combining knowledge, experience, and pride in heritage.
‘Dubai Dates’ continues to solidify its position as an annual event that enhances the presence of the date palm in Emirati life, fostering greater public awareness. It serves as a platform where heritage, knowledge, and loyalty to Emirati identity converge, with the palm tree standing as a living testament to the relationship between people, land, and identity.
As reported by www.emirates247.com.
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Published on 2026-07-26 23:08:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk