Abu dhabi: The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is set to host the 13th edition of the Gulf Oral Heritage and History Conference on 16th and 17th October at the Cultural Foundation. The event convenes leading experts, academics, and researchers in heritage and sociology from across the GCC, further fostering joint Gulf cooperation to protect and preserve heritage, strengthening a shared regional identity, and enabling sustainable cultural development across GCC countries.

According to Emirates News Agency, the theme for this edition, 'Shared Gulf Social Practices: Rooted Traditions, Inspired Horizons,' is inspired by the declaration of 2025 as the "Year of Community" in the UAE. The conference will shed light on deeply rooted social practices that define the Gulf's shared traditions and culture. A key focus will be the pivotal role Gulf women have played in preserving and transmitting traditions across generations.

Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Under-Secretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, stated that the annual Gulf Oral Heritage and History Conference is a cornerstone of DCT Abu Dhabi's commitment to preserving and promoting the shared social heritage that unites Gulf communities. By celebrating traditions rooted in authenticity and creativity - from crafts and performing arts to oral literature - the event ensures that the wisdom of ancestors continues to inspire future generations. This collective heritage is not only a reflection of the past but also a foundation for a shared future.

The conference's six key sub-themes include examining social practices within Gulf societies, exploring the role of events, celebrations, and performing arts in solidifying social cohesion, and highlighting traditional crafts and professions. Other sub-themes focus on women's roles in Gulf social practices, the impact of digitalisation and globalisation on social practices, and the 'Year of Community' 2025, which showcases social practices as a cornerstone for empowerment and community participation in the UAE.

The Gulf Oral Heritage and History Conference reflects DCT Abu Dhabi's continued commitment to safeguarding the region's shared traditions and connecting future generations with their ancestral legacy while positioning heritage as a driver of cultural development across the Gulf.