Latest news with #MohammedbinKhalifa
Al Etihad
10-07-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa: History meets community spirit in this beloved home
11 July 2025 01:19 AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)Standing at the entrance of the Al Ain Region, the historic Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa welcomes travellers from Abu Dhabi, offering a glimpse into the enduring Emirati tradition of a leader opening his home to the in 1958, the sprawling house was the residence of Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan (1909–1979), the father-in-law of the UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and a revered elder of the Al Nahyan Mohammed bin Khalifa was a prominent figure in the sociopolitical life of Al Ain and Abu Dhabi. His home became a bustling hub for the community, hosting gatherings, discussions, and moments that shaped the character of the city.'The house brings back the memory of Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa and highlights the transitional period the area went through,' said Shamma Heyab Alketbi, Acting Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa Unit Head, Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. A quick glance at the home reveals distinctive elements of traditional Emirati architecture, from elegant pillars and delicate plaster decorations to the spacious courtyard. Yet, modern touches are also present, reflected in the clean lines, colourful interiors, and the use of materials like cement and blend of old and new reflects the 'Transition Period' of the 1930s to 1960s, a time when hybrid architecture emerged, influenced by both traditional Emirati styles and the economic currents driven by oil 2008, Al Ain Municipality officially handed over the house's stewardship to the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. After years of careful planning and restoration starting in 2017, it reopened its doors in the house does not display historical artefacts, which are preserved in museums, it features many original architectural elements, including the main entrance door. The spaces are alive with colour and history, each room telling a story through its vibrant walls and structural evolution - from a single-floor layout to its current two-level the restored house is much more than a historical monument. True to its legacy as a community space, the facility has become a versatile venue for meetings, workshops, cultural activities, and educational houses several rooms - ranging from intimate 8-person spaces to a grand hall that can accommodate up to 50 attendees. These are regularly used by government departments, private schools, and cultural organisations, offering a flexible and historically meaningful alternative to conventional venues like summer, it comes alive with children's energy and laughter as it hosts camps for kids of various age groups. 'Every day, children engage in different heritage-based activities,' Alketbi said. 'It helps them connect with the past in a meaningful and engaging way.'A new café is set to open on the premises in November, providing a space for casual gatherings. The site also features the RFLCT Art Center, which regularly organises a variety of art workshops and creative programmes, further enriching the cultural offerings available at the site. As Alketbi explains, the ultimate goal is preservation-not only of bricks and mortar but of memory, identity, and community. In a region where change has been swift and dramatic, Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa stands as a gentle reminder of the roots from which the modern UAE has grown.
Al Etihad
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
Celebrate Eid Al-Adha at local museums and experience culture, history and giveaways
6 June 2025 01:15 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Local museums are opening their doors to the public for free over the long historical and cultural sites will be hosting events where you can celebrate Eid Al-Adha with the are invited to come and experience the rich heritage of the UAE, as well as a variety of fascinating arts and Eid gifts also await following are mandatory stops on any Abu Dhabi museum tour: Al Hosn Site Celebrate Eid Al-Adha at Al Hosn with a lively three-day event, featuring joyful moments for children, Eidiya surprises, and fun-filled giveaways. Dates: June 6–8First day of Eid: 4pm to 8pm Second Day of Eid Onwards: 9am to 8pmEntry: Free House of ArtisansJoin House of Artisans for Fwalat Al Eid, an Emirati tradition during Eid, symbolising hospitality and honouring guests. This custom, passed down through generations, features an array of traditional snacks, reflecting the values of hospitality in Emirati culture and adornment. Date: June 7–8First day of Eid: 4pm to 8pmSecond Day of Eid Onwards: 9am to 8pmEntry: Free Manarat Al SaadiyaJoin the Eid Al-Adha celebrations at Manarat Al Saadiyat under the theme of palm trees. Bring the family and enjoy a vibrant day filled with art workshops and creative activities designed for all ages. While there, you might as well check out the following exhibitions: Abu Dhabi Masterpieces Collection"Layered Medium: We are in Open Circuits" exhibitionMawhibaty Student Showcase ExhibitionZayed University ShowcaseEach offers a unique perspective on artistic expression and local June 6–8Time: 10am to 8pmEntry: Free Al Ain Cultural SitesExplore Al Ain's cultural sites and discover the stories buried in their walls - stories that echo a living heritage. As part of the celebrations, visitors will have the opportunity to receive thoughtfully designed gifts, each inspired by the spirit and essence of its location. Al Jahili Fort At Al Jahili Fort, a beautifully crafted pin bearing the falcon emblem - symbolising pride and strength - awaits June 6–7 First day of Eid: 4pm to 7pmSecond day of Eid onwards: 9am to 7pmBait Mohammed bin KhalifaAt Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa, a delicate art piece portrays Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa alongside his sons, capturing the values of family and June 6–7First day of Eid: 4pm to 7pmSecond day of Eid onwards: 9am to 8pmQasr Al MuwaijiAt Qasr Al Muwaiji, the elegance of tradition comes alive in a design inspired by the "bisht pattern" worn by the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan - an honourable tribute to his presence and June 6–7First day of Eid: 4pm to 7pmSecond day of Eid onwards: 9am to 7pmAl Ain OasisIn Al Ain Oasis, gifts reflect the generosity of the land with fresh nagal dates, celebrating the bounty of the June 6–7First day of Eid: 4pm to 7pmSecond day of Eid onwards: 9am to 5.30pmAl Qattara Arts CentreThis centre offers a poetic touch with a sticker adorned with a verse from the poetry of Sheikh Zayed, expressing identity and emotion through June 6–7First day of Eid: 4pm to 7pmSecond day of Eid onwards: 9am to 8pmDelma MuseumVisit Delma Museum and enjoy special Eid Al-Adha giveaways distributed for the June 6–7 First Day of Eid: 9am to 12pm Second Day of Eid Onwards: Daily 10am to 6pm | Friday 2pm to 6pm
