Latest news with #heritage preservation
UAE Moments
5 days ago
- Business
- UAE Moments
Dubai's Heritage Mosques to be Upgraded Under New Strategy
Dubai has launched a forward-looking initiative aimed at merging urban modernization with heritage preservation. A strategic cooperation agreement between Dubai Municipality and the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) will restore and maintain the emirate's heritage mosques, safeguarding their traditional character and authentic architectural elements. This move embodies Dubai's broader commitment to balancing rapid urban growth with cultural conservation. Under the agreement, Dubai Municipality will lead the restoration of these historical religious sites, ensuring their architectural identity remains intact. Meanwhile, IACAD will uphold operational standards, managing the appointment of imams, muezzins, and preachers, as well as overseeing daily cleaning and religious programming to preserve religious and cultural continuity. A key component of the strategy includes enhancing Eid prayer grounds. These open-air spaces will be upgraded to better accommodate Dubai's expanding urban landscape and population, with upgraded designs and improved readiness to host large-scale gatherings during significant religious observances. The agreement also extends to the improvement of funeral and cemetery services. Dubai Municipality will refine mortuary washing facilities and provide logistical enhancements, while IACAD will ensure that all Shariah-compliant and religious protocols are met, including staffing, training, licensing, and operational oversight. This initiative is part of Dubai's evolving strategy to enhance institutional collaboration and improve residents' quality of life. As expressed by Ahmad Bin Ghalita, Director-General of Dubai Municipality, the agreement reinforces efforts to 'provide high-quality services that benefit the entire community while preserving the authentic character of historic mosques and prayer sites.' Dubai Government's Media Office emphasized the partnership is aimed at 'blending urban progress with heritage conservation.' By forging a unified vision for mosque design and construction, this collaboration sets a blueprint for harmonizing modern infrastructure and deep-rooted cultural identity. The move sends a strong message: as Dubai continues to develop into a global urban hub, it remains deeply committed to preserving its rich religious and architectural heritage.
BBC News
23-07-2025
- General
- BBC News
Historic Trentham orangery added to heritage charity at risk register
Part of a historic estate has been added to a charity's register of buildings at orangery at Trentham in Staffordshire, part of the partially-demolished Trentham Hall, was added to SAVE Britain's Heritage's list in charity compiles a database of empty and threatened buildings in an effort to bring new life to them.A spokesperson for Trentham said there was ongoing work and investment across the estate to preserve and protect its wider heritage. "We appreciate the attention being brought to Trentham's historic orangery," they said."It's a reminder of how important these heritage sites are - and how much care they need to survive for future generations."They added: "Over the years, we've carefully restored and maintained many of the listed buildings and landscape features that help make Trentham such a special place."The orangery holds a special place in Trentham's history, and although it needs significant care, it remains firmly part of our long-term vision."They said they were committed to ensuring Trentham's heritage could continue to be enjoyed for years to come. "The dreamlike beauty of the remains of Trentham Hall standing in wonderfully landscaped grounds, are soured by the neglect which these important vestiges have suffered," a listing on SAVE's website added: "There are various elements of the once grand and enormous house which remain on the site but it is the orangery and entrance hall which, without an active use, have gradually deteriorated." The charity said the hall was remodelled by Sir Charles Barry in the 1800s and was one of the first in the county to adopt an Italianate added the grand entrance for carriages had also been added to the at risk parts of the building, which continued standing after much of the house was demolished in the early 1900s, are now part of Trentham's pleasure Franklin, conservation officer at SAVE, said there were more than 1,000 buildings on the register."We do have a number of buildings at risk of decay or dereliction, or even demolition, on our register – but when they are brought back into life they can become a huge boost to the local economy."She said they could support jobs, help its tourism provision or even make "characterful" were able to nominate buildings they were concerned about to the register, she added. Follow BBC Stoke & Staffordshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.
