Picture used for illustrative purpose only.

The Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi, announced that the Emirati “Harees,” the traditional popular dish of the United Arab Emirates, has been included in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of UNESCO.

It is worth noting that “Harees” is a traditional dish often served during important family gatherings such as weddings, and in national and religious events and holidays. It is also there during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

During its 18th session in Kasane, Botswana, the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of the UNESCO, approved the inclusion of “Harees” on the UNESCO Representative List after the nomination file met the criteria stipulated in the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The UAE, in cooperation with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Sultanate of Oman, did its best for the nomination of the file.

Sheikh Salem Bin Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of Culture, said: “The UAE has adopted sustainable strategies to make culture an exceptional language in its speech with the peoples of the world. UAE took culture as a soft power in all of its various relations. Our leadership also focused on the human and cultural power  in promoting our country’s reputation, displaying its prestigious cultural image and the legacy of its authentic cultural identity, which we introduced to the whole world.”

He added: "This honouring of our local culture is regarded as an appreciation for the joint efforts with the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi, the UAE National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, and other parties who have made sincere efforts to keep the Emirati identity as a source of inspiration and a sustainable vision which serves the present and future generations."