The Ministry of Culture has launched the Summer Programme 2026 under the theme “Proud of the UAE,” running from July 6 to 30 across seven cultural centres nationwide. Designed for children and youth aged 7 to 16, the initiative blends heritage, arts, and technology to strengthen national identity. In partnership with Sandooq Al Watan and the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, the programme offers immersive workshops, live performances, and hands-on learning—all free to participants through online registration.
What’s Inside the Programme
This year’s edition features 63 specialisations spread across cultural centres in the UAE, covering theatre, acting, choir, creative writing, painting, traditional crafts, and folk performing arts such as Al Razfa, Al Ayyala, Al Nadba, and Al Yowla. Participants can also explore 40 interactive workshops on Emirati Sana’a, Arabic language, Quran tajweed, and traditional games.
A highlight is the play “My Grandfather Taught Me,” staged at multiple venues to encourage intergenerational dialogue and reinforce Emirati values through storytelling.
Expert Voices on National Identity
H.E. Mubarak Al Nakhi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, described the programme as a platform where cultural centres become “dynamic hubs for learning, creativity, and talent discovery.” He emphasised that interactive experiences blending knowledge, skills, and national values are central to raising heritage awareness among youth.
H.E. Yasser Al Gargawi, Director General of Sandooq Al Watan, noted that summer programmes now span all emirates, with activities in more than 50 venues, including private schools and youth centres. He pointed to strong registration numbers as evidence of parents’ trust in the quality of programming. “This reinforces our responsibility to deliver impactful, knowledge-based experiences,” he said.
H.E. Abdulla Buti Al Qubaisi, Executive Director of the Heritage Awareness and Knowledge Sector at Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, said the collaboration aims to integrate Emirati heritage into everyday life. “Participants connect with their heritage in an interactive environment that fosters creativity and pride,” he added.
Trainer Programme Attracts National Talent
In a move to empower local experts, the Ministry opened applications for Trainers earlier this year. More than 500 applications poured in, and 75 specialists were selected to lead workshops across cultural, creative, and heritage fields. This ensures high-quality instruction and a rich learning environment for all attendees.
Broader Impact and Next Steps
The Summer Programme 2026 reflects a unified vision among national institutions to build a sustainable cultural ecosystem. By combining traditional arts with modern fields like artificial intelligence (AI), the initiative prepares young Emiratis to carry their heritage into the future.
Parents can register through the Ministry of Culture’s official website, where they can browse participating centres, workshop schedules, and programme details.
As the UAE continues to invest in cultural diplomacy and youth development, programmes like this serve as a blueprint for how heritage can be a living, evolving force—shaping confident, globally-aware citizens proud of their roots.