Ajman agencies unite to promote cultural identity

Ajman’s tourism and protocol authorities have signed a cooperation agreement to strengthen the emirate’s cultural identity, preserve its heritage and integrate local traditions more closely into official events and community programmes.

The Ajman Department of Tourism, Culture and Media concluded the agreement with the Ajman Protocol Department during the opening day of the 11th Liwa Ajman Dates and Honey Festival, which ran from July 30 to August 3 at Emirates Hospitality Hall.

The partnership establishes a framework for joint cultural initiatives, public awareness campaigns, workshops and events designed to highlight Ajman’s history, customs and artistic traditions. It also supports the emirate’s efforts to position itself as a prominent cultural and tourism destination under Ajman Vision 2030.

A central component of the agreement is the training of Ajman Protocol Department employees to serve as ambassadors for the emirate’s cultural identity during official receptions, government functions and visits by delegations. Staff will be equipped to explain local heritage and ensure that official hospitality reflects Ajman’s values and traditions.

The two departments will also work to incorporate cultural and heritage elements into institutional practices. This could include the presentation of traditional customs at official ceremonies, the use of heritage-inspired content in government communications and greater coordination when hosting cultural delegations and public events.

Technology will form another part of the partnership. Visitors and officials will be able to access a cultural heritage guide through a QR code, allowing information about Ajman’s history, landmarks and traditions to be delivered quickly through mobile devices.

The digital initiative reflects a wider effort by cultural authorities across the UAE to make heritage content more accessible to younger audiences and international visitors. Interactive platforms, digital archives and mobile guides are increasingly being used to complement museums, festivals and traditional exhibitions.

Mahmoud Khalil Al Hashimi, Director-General of the Ajman Department of Tourism, Culture and Media, said the agreement would support effective government partnerships and safeguard the emirate’s cultural legacy. He described heritage as a fundamental element of cultural and tourism development.

Al Hashimi said the departments would develop initiatives using modern tools and technology to introduce Ajman’s cultural assets to a wider audience and strengthen their presence within the community.

Yousuf Mohammed Al Nuaimi, Director-General of the Ajman Protocol Department, said coordination between government entities would enhance the visibility of Ajman’s identity during official events and receptions.

He said protocol employees would be empowered to introduce visitors to the emirate’s heritage and provide an experience reflecting its values and traditions.

The agreement was announced against the backdrop of the Liwa Ajman Dates and Honey Festival, one of the emirate’s leading agricultural and heritage events. The five-day gathering brought together farmers, beekeepers, government bodies, private companies and local producers.

The festival featured competitions for dates, honey, citrus fruits and other agricultural products, supported by a prize fund of AED1 million. Workshops, educational activities, heritage performances and retail stands were also organised for families and visitors.

Held under the patronage of Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, the event promotes the date palm’s role in Emirati society while supporting agriculture, beekeeping and local food production.

The festival also provides producers with opportunities to meet consumers, exchange expertise and learn about methods for improving product quality and environmental sustainability. Organisers have positioned the event as a platform connecting heritage preservation with food security, tourism and economic development.

Ajman has expanded its cultural programming as it seeks to diversify its visitor economy and give heritage a more visible role in destination promotion. Government partnerships are being used to connect cultural preservation with tourism campaigns, institutional training and community engagement.

The latest agreement broadens that approach by linking the emirate’s tourism and cultural authority with the department responsible for official protocol. The arrangement is expected to ensure that local identity is presented consistently at public functions and in interactions with visiting dignitaries.

Joint programmes are also intended to encourage residents, particularly younger generations, to build a stronger connection with local history. Awareness campaigns and workshops will focus on explaining the significance of customs, traditional occupations, agriculture, crafts and social practices.