E-Paper
Sign In
Thu, Nov 21, 2024 | Jumada al-Awwal 19, 1446 | DXB
0°C
'Don’t forget your headscarf': New UAE community challenge goes viral
The ghutrah, a traditional headscarf, has deep cultural significance and is one of the oldest garments worn by Emirati males
In its bid to foster a deeper appreciation for Emirati culture and identity, the UAE's Ministry of Community Development has launched a series of initiatives or ‘community challenge’ that is seeing widespread participation.
One such challenge for this week is encouraging Emirati men and boys to not forget their ‘ghutrah’ while stepping out. The initiative has gone viral within Emirati circles, with scores of children and adults posting videos and photos of themselves donning the garment.
The ghutrah, a traditional headscarf, has deep cultural significance and is one of the oldest garments worn by Emirati males. Historically, leaving home without it was deemed disrespectful, as it is typically removed only for ablution before prayers.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
The campaign highlights the importance of traditional attire in representing national identity, particularly the kandura and ghutrah. The ministry invited the public to share photographs on social media using the hashtag #CommunityChallenge, showcasing the beauty of Emirati heritage.
The initiative has seen significant participation across various age groups. Khalid Mohammed Al Suwaidi from Ajman said: “The Community Challenge is a commendable effort by the ministry to preserve our Emirati identity and culture. It effectively connects younger generations to our heritage, particularly in a multicultural environment like the UAE.”
Khalid Mohammed Al Suwaidi
Khalid Mohammed Al Suwaidi's son
Among the participants is young Hamid Abdullah Al Shehhi from Ras Al Khaimah. His mother, Waood Saleh, praised the initiative, saying: “The ministry continuously impresses us with its unique ideas that strengthen community ties. This challenge encourages our youth to embrace their traditions, reflecting our strong commitment to our cultural roots.”
Waood Saleh's son Hamid Abdullah Al Shehhi
Abdulrahman Wadi, a content creator, said: ”There was a significant response from parents, children, and even the youth."
Abdulrahman Wadi
“This campaign is not just a local message but also a global one. It is global because we, the children of Zayed, preserve these simple things that maintain our identity and national heritage.”
What is impressive to Abdulrahman is that the Ministry of Community Development is also engaged and has been reposting photos on Instagram stories. “I also received a message from them.”
In the message that Abdulrahman received, the Ministry of Community Development wrote: "Thank you... You make us proud and are an example of holding onto your Emirati identity."
Salah Al-Rifai from Sharjah said, “The community challenge is a very valuable and important initiative because we are a people who encourage the affirmation of national identity and its promotion in all local and international forums.”
Salah Al-Rifai
”Highlighting national identity is a social responsibility," he added.
ALSO READ:
Ruqayya Al Qaydi
Ruqayya Alqaydi is a Special Correspondent with a newborn by her side and an endless curiosity to learn. Like a journalist on a caffeine overdrive, she is fuelled by passion and on a mission to uncover every gem in the UAE.
Sign Up For Breaking News Alerts
Be in the know. Get the latest breaking news delivered straight to your inbox.
Next Story