The Abu Dhabi Creative Hub hosted “Expressions of Mawlid,” a celebration honoring the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birth anniversary, on Saturday. Noura Bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, the minister of culture and youth, attended. Emirati and Arab bands gave several performances at the event. The performers performed songs and read poems that showed their devotion to the Prophet (PBUH). A panel discussion about the background of Al Mawlid art in the UAE was also part of the program.
In a statement, Minister Al Kaabi said: “The Ministry’s interest in commemorating this anniversary originates from the importance of Al Mawlid to Emirati society on a religious, historical, and cultural level. It honors the Prophet (PBUH) and his era and motivates us. “
Al Kaabi emphasized that one of the most well-known regional traditional arts that symbolizes the culture of the UAE and its authentic values is Al Mawlid, or the art of devotional singing. It serves as a means of introducing the kids to their shared Arab and Islamic cultural heritage. This tradition has been connected to religious and social celebrations throughout history, enhancing social cohesion and bringing people together. She emphasized that the Ministry organized this event to carry forth the rich cultural heritage of Islam and the Arab world by teaching it to the next generation and instilling a love and respect for traditions.
Noureddine Khurshid, a Syrian singer, and his band played music to kick off the celebration. The poet performed some of the most endearing poems in honor of the Prophet (PBUH). A performance by the Moroccan group Hazrat Chefchaouen featured a selection of sacred melodies.
At the event titled “Art of Al Mawlid in the UAE,” Emirati performer Ali bin Yarouf Al Mansouri, Emirati researcher Thani Al Muhairi, and Ammar Al Attar, an Emirati artist, took part in a panel discussion. The speakers discussed the historical significance of Al Mawlid as well as the customs and traditions connected to it. The Mawlid Performance came next, giving the audience a chance to see some of the Emirati Mawlid traditions. Chants, traditional Emirati group dances to the beat of tambourines, and songs honoring the Mawlidwere performed by Mubarak Al Otaiba Folk and Heritage Ensemble.