Sheikh Hamdan launches Erth Dubai initiative to document emirate’s heritage

Erth Dubai will feature comprehensive accounts of Dubai's history, notable contributions to its growth, life in the emirate over the years and its evolution over time

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, recently launched Erth Dubai, a new initiative that aims to document the emirate’s rich history and heritage by gathering and cataloging stories and life experiences of community members that showcase Dubai’s development over the years and the lives of its people across generations.

The initiative invites members of the Dubai community across various age groups to share interesting anecdotes and stories, ensuring that Dubai’s rich heritage continues to inspire for generations to come. An interactive platform is being developed to gather historical and cultural accounts of Dubai’s past from individuals and families.

“Erth Dubai will ensure that our cultural legacy not only endures but also continues to inspire future generations, reinforcing our commitment to preserving the emirate’s cultural identity – a cornerstone that has strengthened Dubai’s renaissance and progress to this day. Through this initiative, we will safeguard the legacy of our ancestors, ensuring it is passed down to our children and grandchildren,” stated Sheikh Hamdan.

Documenting Dubai’s transformation over the years

Sheikh Hamdan stressed that Dubai’s journey to becoming a modern, world-leading city is fuelled by the inspiring legacy of the leaders who laid its foundations and provided a guiding vision for generations to follow.

He also noted that Erth Dubai aims to strengthen the collective memory of the emirate’s transformation over the years and deepen the community’s understanding of its history and heritage as a fundamental element underpinning the national identity.

“Dubai’s journey is a story of ambition, resilience, and unity. It began with the vision of our ancestors, was carried forward by our fathers, and continues to evolve through the efforts of the current generation. Our shared heritage and values are the bedrock upon which we will continue to build, driving Dubai towards even greater heights,” Sheikh Hamdan added.

Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the importance of collaboration among government entities to make the initiative a resounding success, urging all segments of society, from school students to families, businesspeople, officials and individuals, to support it by sharing their experiences and stories.

“Every recorded testimony and every story shared through this initiative is a national treasure that reflects the values of our society and highlights the vital role each Emirati has played in shaping Dubai’s history. It is our shared responsibility to document our history and safeguard this legacy as a source of pride and inspiration for future generations,” he added.

Initiative to be carried out in phases

Erth Dubai will be carried out in multiple phases throughout 2025, starting with the collection of submissions from the community. At a later stage, these submissions will be evaluated by a specialized jury well-versed in historical, social and cultural perspectives to capture their true essence.

Sheikh Hamdan encouraged all segments of Emirati society to take part in documenting the emirate’s rich history. Public and private school students, along with Dubai government employees, will also be invited to help gather and document stories and life experiences.

Erth Dubai will feature comprehensive accounts of Dubai’s history, notable contributions to its growth, life in the emirate over the years and its evolution over time. As part of the initiative, residents will be asked to recount personal stories from various stages of their lives, capturing their diverse experiences and memories.

These accounts will help highlight memorable events of daily life, personal achievements and family stories, shaping a digital archive with a deeply personal touch that reflects Dubai’s cultural depth and vibrant community spirit.

School campaign with KHDA

In collaboration with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), Erth Dubai will also launch a school campaign encouraging students to document the stories of their parents and grandparents, and help young people connect with their roots and appreciate the stories and experiences that have shaped Dubai’s journey.

Erth Dubai is part of a series of ongoing projects that Sheikh Hamdan launched to showcase Dubai’s inspirational journey, with the latest being the Dubai National Archives Project. The project aims to preserve significant accounts of Dubai’s history and heritage in accordance with the highest global standards, documenting and archiving the emirate’s government records, achievements, history and cultural heritage, ensuring that Dubai’s story is easily accessible to future generations.