Dubai launches Bastakiya revival project

posted on 25/05/2008: 90 views

Dubai has launched a project to revive Al Bastakiya district, one of the most historic landmarks in the emirate.

President of Dubai Event Management Corporation (DEMC) Sheikh Ahmed Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum on Saturday announced that the Corporation had been mandated to revive the district under the directive of the Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and the Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

"The project is in line with the vision of the Khor Dubai cultural project, recently launched by the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority which is set to revive the national cultural heritage of Dubai, as well as establish UAE as a centre for global dialogue and cultural platforms. The Al Bastakiya district will help establish an arts and cultural community at the heritage site and attract creative minds from across the world to support our efforts to inspire indigenous talent," Sheikh Ahmed said.

"The Al Bastakiya project, which will revitalise one of Dubai's oldest districts, will reflect the contemporary outlook of the emirate as a dynamic cultural centre. It will also serve as a significant driver to one of the objectives outlined in the Dubai Strategic Plan 2015, which aims to mould the emirate into a global platform for arts and culture, highlighting the significance of the cultural aspect of the city -- a vital pillar of its socio-economic development," he added.

Executive Chairman of the Corporation Saeed Al Muntafiq said: "With its rich expertise and resources, the Corporation is mandated to oversee the venture that will build a modern and cultural milestone, while preserving the site's historic significance and components and building on its heritage to create a place for the benefit of future generations. This will rank the revitalised Al Bastakiya among the leading cultural and heritage sites worldwide. In achieving this ambitious target, the Corporation will mobilise local talent as its key driving force."

Recently launched under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Dubai Event Management Corporation aims to position Dubai as a unique sports and cultural hub on both the regional and international level.

With the implementation of the latest project, Al Bastakiya will emerge to represent a global landscape, including a specialised arts and cultural centre to host events, festivals and activities. In addition, Al Bastakiya will house a performance art theatre, studios and workshops for resident artists, with a mix of concept and designer outlets, boutique hotels, galleries, cafes and restaurants. It will also serve as the perfect cradle of Dubai's rich heritage and represent the pinnacle of a futuristic lifestyle. – The Gulf Today

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