The Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) has announced the official transfer of 15 Dubai heritage and archaeological sites from DTCM to the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture).

Dubai Culture will be responsible for the sites, which include museums and heritage villages and a number of artifacts which date back to 3000BC, according to law number six for the year 2008.

Helal Saeed Almarri, director general of DTCM, said: “The safeguard of the historical and archaeological sites in the emirates is a national duty. These sites are of great importance in preserving the history of the UAE and give a vivid portrayal of the country’s traditions - it is our responsibility to ensure that people of all generations are able to learn more about our heritage.”

“The transfer of these sites is indicative of the close collaboration between DTCM and Dubai Culture and our joint efforts to strengthen Dubai’s position as a leading tourism hub. A key part of our work is the promotion of the historical sites of Dubai including a number of activities and events that contribute to, as well as highlight the importance of, preserving the nation’s heritage.”

“Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has outlined that one of the core missions of Dubai Culture is to establish and nurture a strong cultural infrastructure for the Emirate, which is a key pillar of Dubai’s strategic growth vision,” Saeed Al Nabouda, acting director general of Dubai Culture, said.

“The heritage sites of Dubai, rooted deep in our history, are an integral part of our cultural identity. Apart from their compelling historical significance, they serve as milestones for our future generations to appreciate how Dubai has evolved over the years. By transferring the ownership and management of these sites to Dubai Culture, we are taking another ambitious step in achieving our founding objective of promoting an integrated cultural infrastructure, under the chairmanship of Sheikh Majid Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.”

The historical and heritage sites in the emirate include Dubai Museum, Sheikh Saeed's House, Hatta Heritage Village, Heritage Village and Diving Village, Majlis Ghorfat Umm Al Sheif, Ahmadiah School, Naif Museum, Jumeirah Archaeological Site, Sarouk Archaeological Site, Sufouh sites and Sheikh Obaid's House. – TradeArabia News Service