DUBAI 22 November 2017: Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), is drawing on Hatta’s heritage to sustain the values of the ‘Dubai Fitness Challenge’ launched by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council for the Dubai Government.
To motivate Dubai citizens and residents to maintain the high levels of activity they achieved during the challenge, the authority is highlighting Hatta Heritage Village as a destination where they can take inspiration from the healthy lifestyle enjoyed by Dubai’s earliest settlers.
Overlooking two mountains, Hatta Heritage Village captures a traditional and rural way of life that stretches back 3,000 years. The villagers once lived off the land and its national resources, making fitness and activity a natural part of any normal day. They climbed palms to harvest dates, hand farmed their land out in the fresh air, and walked to find honey and gather water. The village is now home to 30 buildings that offer a glimpse into this history, including a castle, a fortress, shops offering traditional heritage collections, and a group of neighbouring farms with a fresh water canal.
Khalid Ali Gharib, Manager of Hatta Heritage Village, commented: “Hatta is an ideal destination for cultural tourists because it is rich in archaeological and historical sites and museums, and allows visitors to learn about traditional industries while also indulging in various forms of artistic expression that are made available at continuous cultural events hosted throughout the year. While the ‘Dubai Fitness Challenge’ has drawn to a close, we want to highlight Hatta as a unique destination where the public can learn about the country’s rich heritage through various outdoor activities, and maintain healthy lifestyles in line with the wise vision of our leadership.”
Although the ‘Dubai Fitness Challenge’ came to a close on Saturday 18th November, the Authority is encouraging the public to continue living an active lifestyle and visit the Hatta Heritage Village, where they can discover traditional activities such as mountain biking, crossing the waters of the Hatta Dam in rowing boats, or simply exploring one of Dubai’s most spectacular landscapes.
Dubai Culture aims to enhance Dubai’s cultural scene and draw attention to the Emirate’s rich heritage with a variety of initiatives that take place throughout the year. The Authority’s mandate is to build bridges of constructive dialogue between different civilisations and cultures through enriching initiatives that benefit the Emirate’s citizens, residents and visitors.
Dubai culture recently produced a short movie highlighting the charming nature of the Hatta area for UAE residents and visitors alike. The video was shot using a drone to capture the beauty of Hatta and was broadcasted on the Authority’s various digital channels.