Latest news with #DepartmentOfCultureAndTourism
Trade Arabia
26-05-2025
- Health
- Trade Arabia
Active Abu Dhabi launches programme to community well-being
Active Abu Dhabi, an initiative by Emirates Foundation, has launched a programme named Misrah, a programme to promote national identity and community well-being. The initiative, a part of the Year of Community, was announced during an introductory workshop hosted at Active Abu Dhabi headquarters in Al Qana, Abu Dhabi. The workshop brought together representatives from government entities, community organisations, key media and logistics partners, as part of a comprehensive national effort to support community initiatives throughout 2025, in line with the aspirations of the UAE Year of Community. The introductory workshop was attended by by 50 participants, including representatives from government entities, community organisations, and key media and logistics partners. Participants included the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, Department of Education and Knowledge – Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Media Office, Department of Community Development, Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, Ministry of Defense, Nafis Program, Abu Dhabi News Network, National Search and Rescue Center, PureHealth, Abu Dhabi Media, National Library and Archives, Federal Geographic Information Center, National Media Office, Office of the Ruler's Representative, and Abu Dhabi Police, alongside several academic institutions and private sector collaborators. The workshop explored opportunities for cooperation and integration between government and private sector entities, emphasising the vital roles of media, logistics, and culture in supporting the initiative. Misrah is a pivotal national initiative that brings to life the values of the UAE's founding fathers through an immersive journey that weaves together culture, identity, and physical activity. It aims to instill authentic Emirati values in young people. Reflecting Emirates Foundation's commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and social responsibility, Misrah offers transformative experiences that reconnect youth with the UAE's cultural roots and deepen their understanding of the UAE's natural and human environment, by reviving traditions in a modern, meaningful way. Ahmed Talib Al Shamsi, CEO of Emirates Foundation, said: "Misrah embodies the vision we hold at Emirates Foundation, where we believe that true empowerment begins with a sense of belonging, and that community partnerships are the primary drivers of positive change. We are proud of everyone who has contributed to transforming this vision into a national experience that resonates with pride and commitment." Mansour Al Dhaheri, Chairman of Active Abu Dhabi, said: 'Misrah is more than just an initiative; it is a message to every young man and woman that our past serves as a source of inspiration for our future. Health is not only physical but also resides in the soul, connected to a strong identity and authentic community awareness. This initiative truly embodies the essence of Active Abu Dhabi and brings its vision to life." Misrah is aligned with the national vision of fostering a stronger, more united, and socially cohesive community. Misrah combines physical activities, such as walking and camel riding, with heritage experiences that echo the desert lifestyle of past generations, enhancing young people's appreciation of their cultural heritage and inspiring a profound sense of national pride and belonging. Participants will journey up to 1,000 km, over a 30-day journey, across the UAE's diverse landscapes, undertaking daily walks that emulate ancient travel. Along the way, they will cultivate patience, discipline, and a spirit of cooperation.
The National
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Abu Dhabi University to offer degree in video game design
Abu Dhabi University will begin offering a Bachelor of Arts in Game Design, billed as the first degree of its kind in the region. The programme was announced after a 'landmark' memorandum of understanding was signed between the university, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the video game-focused school Rubika, which has campuses in France and Canada. The memorandum was also signed with the support of Abu Dhabi Gaming. The degree will be offered starting August, the beginning of the academic year. 'The programme combines academic excellence, international best practices and deep industry integration – including structured internships, mentorships and up to 140 funded scholarships over six years,' the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi said in a post on X on Tuesday. The degree is already listed on the website of Abu Dhabi University. "This cutting-edge programme equips students with the creative, technical and industry-driven expertise needed to design, develop and produce engaging video game experiences,' the description reads. A breadth of courses are being offered as part of the programme, ranging from Fundamentals of Emotional Intelligence to History of Video Games, as well as courses focusing on different genres and platforms, including first-person shooters and mobile games. 'Combining theory with hands-on practice, the programme covers essential aspects of game design, from level design and game mechanics to narrative development and interactive media production,' the programme description reads. 'Students will master industry-standard tools, including Unity, Unreal Engine and Adobe Suite, while learning to craft immersive digital experiences for entertainment, education and simulation.' Abu Dhabi has been steadily working to develop the local gaming and esports ecosystem. Abu Dhabi Gaming – an initiative founded in 2021 that supports game developers, players, consumers and businesses – was integrated into DCT – Abu Dhabi in November 2023 as part of a move to 'position the emirate as a global gaming hub,' Abu Dhabi Media Office said at the time.
