National Day celebrations



ABU DHABI // A contest to find the best street in each of the seven emirates is being launched to mark the 38th anniversary of the founding of the UAE. As part of the celebrations, a total of 61 events and activities are being organised by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Community Development and other state bodies. An official website (www.nationalday.ae) containing information on the history of the UAE and of the leading figures who founded the country is being launched in November after officials selected one of seven competing submissions. Events to mark the 38th national day will detail the "history, culture, spirit and achievements of the federation", according to a statement from WAM, the state news agency. The programme of events is being organised by the higher committee for celebrations under the ministry, which recently held is third meeting. At the meeting, the committee also approved an emblem for the celebrations, picked from five entries shortlisted from 50 designs developed by companies and university students. The UAE plans to invite overseas media to the country to interview senior officials and learn about the country's progress since it was founded. * WAM

Iftar programme at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding

Established in 1998, the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding was created with a vision to teach residents about the traditions and customs of the UAE. Its motto is ‘open doors, open minds’. All year-round, visitors can sign up for a traditional Emirati breakfast, lunch or dinner meal, as well as a range of walking tours, including ones to sites such as the Jumeirah Mosque or Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.

Every year during Ramadan, an iftar programme is rolled out. This allows guests to break their fast with the centre’s presenters, visit a nearby mosque and observe their guides while they pray. These events last for about two hours and are open to the public, or can be booked for a private event.

Until the end of Ramadan, the iftar events take place from 7pm until 9pm, from Saturday to Thursday. Advanced booking is required.

For more details, email openminds@cultures.ae or visit www.cultures.ae