Sharjah: The 11th edition of the Dibba Al Hisn Al Maleh and Fishing Festival, organized by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), Dibba Al Hisn Municipal Council, and Dibba Al Hisn Municipality, kicked off on Thursday. The festival will run for four days in the city of Dibba Al Hisn, featuring participation from ministries, government and private institutions, productive families, and various shops specializing in Al Maleh products.
Sultan Abdullah Al Owais, Chairman of the SCCI, inaugurated the festival, accompanied by key officials, including Mubarak Al Nakhi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, Ahmed bin Yarouf Al Naqbi, Chairman of the Municipal Council of Dibba Al Hisn, and Talib Abdullah Al Yahyaei, Director of Dibba Al Hisn Municipality.
The festival’s opening day featured heritage segments and the recitation of poems inspired by Emirati folklore, emphasizing the festival’s aim to preserve cultural heritage, promote traditional activities, and educate children about their ancestors’ professions. Al Maleh, a traditional salted fish product, is one of the oldest foods known to the UAE, used to secure food supplies throughout the year.
Abdullah Sultan Al Owais highlighted the festival’s role in boosting the economic, commercial, and tourism sectors in Sharjah’s Eastern Region. He noted that the event is crucial for preserving UAE’s rich folk heritage, ensuring the sustainability of the fishing profession, and supporting the country’s food security. The festival also contributes to the economy by enhancing the gross domestic product and creating job opportunities.
Talib Abdullah Al Yahyaei praised the significant public turnout and participation from various parts of the UAE and the Arabian Gulf region, describing the festival as a cultural, civilizational, and economic landmark. He thanked the strategic partners, particularly the SCCI, for their support in making the event successful.
The festival offers a range of events, including folk arts, traditional and marine songs, and training courses on Al Maleh production and traditional fishing methods. The participating entities and shops were honored on the first day for their contributions.
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