UAE celebrates enduring heritage ties as Tan-Tan Moussem opens in Morocco

The Emirates joins the official opening of Morocco's 19th Tan-Tan Cultural Moussem, reaffirming a partnership that has flourished since 2014 and highlighting the shared values that bind two nations together.

Beneath the Moroccan sky, the 19th Tan-Tan Moussem opened on Saturday with the ceremonial presence of the United Arab Emirates, a moment that underscores the deepening cultural conversation between two countries whose histories are woven from desert traditions, maritime heritage and the values of generosity and solidarity that transcend borders.

The official opening, held under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI and organised by the Almouggar Foundation, brought together dignitaries from both nations. Among them were Jalal Charaf, Morocco’s Minister of Tourism, Handicrafts and the Solidarity Economy, alongside Obaid Khalfan Al Mazrouei, Acting Director General of the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, who represented the Emirates’ commitment to this ongoing cultural exchange.

In his address, Al Mazrouei traced the lineage of the partnership back to 2014, articulating how the UAE’s presence at the Moussem reflects a deliberate and sustained effort to share Emirati heritage with international audiences. He drew particular attention to the profound similarities between Emirati and Moroccan societies: both nations have cultivated deep ties to the desert environment, and both cherish customs and traditions rooted in timeless values of courage, tolerance and collective responsibility.

The significance of this year’s participation extends beyond the ceremonial. Al Mazrouei noted that the Emirates’ presence coincides with Morocco’s celebration of Unity Day, merging two meaningful occasions: a national celebration of solidarity and a cultural gathering that honours shared heritage. This convergence speaks to the fraternal bonds established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the late King Hassan II, relationships that continue to deepen under the leadership of both nations today.

A particular emphasis emerged in Al Mazrouei’s remarks regarding heritage’s evolving role in the contemporary world. He spoke to heritage as a living record, a foundation upon which communities shape their futures and a source of inspiration across generations. Crucially, he championed the integration of artificial intelligence and digital technologies in heritage preservation and presentation, recognising that technological advancement offers new pathways to safeguard cultural legacies, make them more accessible to younger generations and share knowledge across the globe.

Following the ceremony, officials and guests visited the UAE pavilion at the Moussem, where Abdullah Butti Al Qubaisi, Executive Director of the Heritage Awareness and Knowledge Sector at the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, guided visitors through carefully curated displays of Emirati heritage artefacts and cultural activities. As we reported in our coverage of the Emirates’ cultural voice at the Moussem, these presentations showcase the richness and diversity of Emirati traditions, from camel racing to Nabati poetry. The pavilion also illuminated the intangible cultural heritage shared between the two nations, revealing the historical and cultural threads that connect Emirati and Moroccan communities.

Al Mazrouei concluded his remarks by expressing appreciation to the Kingdom of Morocco and the Moussem’s organisers for their stewardship of cultural heritage and commitment to its international recognition. He affirmed the UAE’s resolve to strengthen this partnership further, aligning it with the vision of both countries’ leadership and the shared aspirations of their peoples.

What it means for Abu Dhabi

The UAE’s participation in the Tan-Tan Moussem reinforces Abu Dhabi’s role as a guardian of heritage in an increasingly globalised world. By presenting Emirati traditions alongside Moroccan culture, the Emirates demonstrates that heritage is not a relic of the past but a vital foundation for contemporary identity and international understanding. This exchange strengthens the cultural diplomacy that has characterised the relationship since 2014, positioning Abu Dhabi as a bridge between the Arab world and international audiences.

For the people of Abu Dhabi, this engagement represents the broader commitment to pass heritage to younger generations while embracing technological innovation. The emphasis on digital tools and artificial intelligence in heritage preservation speaks to Abu Dhabi’s vision of balancing authenticity with progress, ensuring that Emirati traditions remain vibrant and accessible to future generations whilst remaining rooted in their enduring values.

Source: WAM