Cultural Legacy Celebrated with Dhikhr Award Honorees at NYUAD Institute
Celebrating Cultural Legacy: The Inaugural Dhikhr Award Presented at NYU Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, UAE – In a momentous occasion coinciding with Eid Al Etihad, the New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) Institute unveiled the recipients of the esteemed Dhikhr Award, a new honor dedicated to recognizing exceptional contributions to the safeguarding and celebration of the United Arab Emirates’ rich cultural and historical tapestry. The term “Dhikhr,” which translates to “treasure” in Arabic, aptly reflects the essence of the award’s mission to illuminate the invaluable and dynamic heritage of the UAE.
This prestigious accolade was awarded this year to two influential figures in the field of historical scholarship: Dr. Frauke Heard-Bey and the late Dr. David Heard. Their extensive research and writings have significantly enhanced public understanding of the UAE’s historical narrative, chronicling its evolution from a collection of small coastal communities into a modern state known for its development and cultural pluralism. Dr. Heard’s scholarship, in particular, has been instrumental in unveiling the social, economic, and cultural developments that have shaped the nation.
The presentation of the award featured a distinguished panel discussion led by Zaki Nusseibeh, Cultural Adviser to the President of the UAE. Nusseibeh reflected on the profound impact of the Heinerts’ work, noting that their contributions have not only documented the past but have also fostered a deeper appreciation for the UAE’s unique identity among its citizens and residents alike.
Maurice A. Pomerantz, the Executive Director of The NYUAD Institute, articulated the spirit of the award, emphasizing its role not just as an accolade but as an impetus for scholarly engagement and cultural stewardship. “Launching this award during Eid Al Etihad signifies our commitment to being a center for cultural dialogue and preservation,” Pomerantz commented. “By honoring Frauke Heard-Bey and David Heard, we reaffirm our dedication to documenting and celebrating the UAE’s rich heritage, which provides a foundation for future generations.”
Nahed Ahmed, who spearheaded the establishment of the Dhikhr Award, elaborated on its significance as a heartfelt initiative to honor those dedicated to recording and disseminating the UAE’s historical narratives. “The Institute serves as an ideal platform for commemorating these invaluable contributions,” Ahmed remarked, further underscoring NYUAD’s ongoing commitment to cultural preservation and intellectual growth.
Since its inception in 2008, the NYUAD Institute has established itself as a leading sanctuary for academic inquiry and cultural dialogue. The institute has hosted over 1,500 events and welcomed more than 1,000 speakers hailing from around the globe. The introduction of the Dhikhr Award serves to deepen its legacy as a pivotal venue for scholarly excellence and cultural discourse, reinforcing the importance of understanding the historical backdrop against which the modern UAE has developed.
The Dhikhr Award not only honors the past but also seeks to inspire future generations to engage with their cultural heritage actively. In an age where globalization can sometimes overshadow local identities, initiatives like the Dhikhr Award are crucial for fostering a sense of pride and ownership among younger Emiratis. By highlighting the contributions of scholars and cultural advocates, the award provides a platform for ongoing conversations about the UAE’s identity and its place in the broader narrative of global history.
As the UAE continues to thrive as a dynamic hub for business, tourism, and innovation, appreciating and understanding its cultural roots is essential for sustaining its progress. The Dhikhr Award is a testament to the initiative of organizations like NYUAD that aim to preserve the threads of tradition while weaving them into the fabric of contemporary society.
The inaugural Dhikhr Award serves not only as an acknowledgment of the past but also as a beacon for future explorations of the UAE’s heritage, encouraging ongoing dialogues about identity, history, and culture among scholars, citizens, and expatriates alike.
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